Exercise Science

A total of 124 semester hours are required for the B.S. degree in Exercise Science.

Study Life's Complexity

In concert with the mission of the University, Exercise Science faculty foster the professional development of students through academic excellence, and provide educational opportunities to students to be competitive in a technological society.    

  • Opportunities exist for undergraduate research experience, both on campus and through summer internships.

  • All faculty hold PhDs and bring real-word experience to the classroom. 

  • All students benefit from small-class settings and one-on-one mentoring from professors. 

Exercise Science Courses

  • EXS 1140. Introduction to Exercise (I, II, III; 3)

    TA general introduction to exercise science focusing on sport, wellness, research and clinical aspects of human movement. Topics such as career opportunities, significant contributions pf the various areas within exercise science, essential foundation needed for advanced studies in exercise science and related areas such as athletic training and sports medicine. Discussion related to how exercise science principles are applied in practice to optimize health and athletic performance.


    EXS 1155. Research Practicum I (I, II, III; 1)

    This is an experience in observation related to ongoing research in an on/off campus research setting. Students observe procedures, design, concepts and theories of research related to health, exercise or human performance. Students observe procedures, design, concepts and theories of research related to health, exercise or human performance. Prerequisite: EXS 1140.


    EXS 1156. Clinical Practicum I (I, II, III; 1)

    This course is an experience in either an on campus/off site health/sports-related facility or clinical setting. Students observe practical applications of the concepts and theories of a career related to health, corporate, community, or clinical setting. Students observe practical applications of the concepts and theories of a career related to health, corporate, community or clinical setting Prerequisite: EXS 1140.


    EXS 2101 Applied Anatomy and Physiology I (I, II; 3)

    An introduction to human anatomy and physiology, characteristics of life, levels of system organization, biochemical processes, cellular structure/function, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system and nervous system with emphasis on the application of the structures and functions to human movement. Designed for students interested in pursuing study in physica education, health education, community health and exercise science.


    EXS 2102 Applied Anatomy and Physiology II (I, II; 3)

    An introduction to human anatomy and physiology, special senses, endocrine system, lymphatic system, blood, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, water and electrolyte balance, female and male reproductive systems with emphasis on the application of the structures and functions to human movement. Designed for students interested in pursuing study in physical education, health education, community health and exercise science. Prerequisite: EXS 2101.


    EXS 2202 Nutrition for Health and Exercise Across the Lifespan (I, II; 3)

    This course discusses the nutritional requirements of an individual throughout the lifespan. A review of the specific assays and examinations to determine good nutrition health will be discussed. The course highlights the general nutrition needs of pregnancy, infancy, children, adolescents, adult and the older adults. There will be discussions related to eating disorders, metabolic disease and physical activity.


    EXS 2204 Research Design and Statistics in Health and Exercise (I,II; 3)

    This course is designed to introduce the students to research and principles of qualitative and quantitative research methods. The students will discuss the application of research principles related to health and human performance, current research related to human subjects and ethical treatment of human and animals in research. Prerequisite: EXS 1140.


    EXS 2210 Salutogenesis (I,II; 2)

    This course investigates the underlying causes of health and well-being versus disease. Salutogesis creates an exemplary new paradigm in medical research which is directed towards the origins of health. Intensive review of salutogenuc research and discussions will be basis of this course.


    EXS 2255 Research Practicum II (I,II; 2)

    This course is an experience in observation related to ongoing research in an on/off campus research setting. Students observe procedures, design, concepts and theories of research related to health, exercise or human performance. Students may participate in the active research with permission of the Principal Investigator Prerequisite: EXS 1155.


    EXS 2256 Clinical Practicum II (I, II; 2)

    This course is an experience in either an on campus/off site health/ sports-related facility or clinical setting. Students observe practical applications of the concepts and theories of a career related to health, corporate, community or clinical setting. Students will observe and may begin to integrate in the setting by performing tasks approved by clinical setting administration.


    EXS 3280 Exercise as Medicine (I, II; 3)

    The study of the mechanisms to make physical activity and exercise a standard part of a global disease prevention and treatment medical paradigm. Physical activity will be considered as a strategy for all health care providers as a vital sign in every patient’s visit, and that patients are effectively counseled and referred as to their physical activity and health needs, thus leading to overall improvement in the public’s health and long-term reduction in health care costs.


    EXS 3312 Psycho-Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity (I, II; 3)

    The course is an overview of behavioral change and how utilizing both modern and tradition models can impact behavior in relation to motivation and identifying the various how stages of readiness. This course examines common theories of behavior change and identifies scientific evidence supporting the utilization of the models of change to support a healthy lifestyle.


    EXS 3333 Exercise and Health Disparity (I, II; 3)

    This course focuses on some basic issues to health disparity in the United States. The identification and metrics associated with identifying health disparity will be discussed. An in depth discussion will focus on the impact of exercise on health disparity and strategies of delivering positive heath practices to various populations and geographic environments.


    EXS 3342 Applies Exercise Physiology (II; 3)

    In-depth examination of the effects of acute and chronic exercise on the human body and applications to sport, work, wellness, research and clinical settings. Topics will cover the application of exercise physiological principles as related to abd impact on environments such as occupational/work, employee wellness, sports, safety/public governmental agencies, health, disease prevention, pedagogy, coaching and rehabilitation. Prerequisite: HHP 3330 and HHP 3340.


    EXS 3355 Research Practicum III (I, II; 3)

    This course is an experience in observation related to ongoing research in an on/off campus research setting. Students observe procedures, design, concepts and theories of research related to health, exercise or human performance. Students participate in the active research with permission of the Principal Investigator. Prerequisite: EXS 1155 and EXS 2255.


    EXS 3356 Clinical Practicum III(I,II; 3)

    This course is an experience in either an on campus/off site health/sports-related facility or clinical setting. Students observe practical applications of the concepts and theories of a career related to health, corporate, community or clinical setting. Students will integrate in the setting by performing tasks approved by clinical setting administrations.


    EXS 3380 Molecular and Cellular Aspects of Human Movement (II; 3)

    An advanced study of human body biochemical and molecular processes during exposure to acute and chronic physical stress and the imnpact upon health and performance. Detail to applied biometrics that measure energetics-body composition. Caloric, oxygen consumption and related assessments of organ systems impacted by exercise exposure. Prerequisite: HHP 3330 and HHP 3340.


    EXS 3381 Genetics for Exercise Science and Health (II; 3)

    The study of the basics of DNA and genetics as they relate to health, physical activity and sport. Specific skills and strategies for interpreting, applying genetics finding in research and how genetics research may affect sport performance training and clinical practice. Ethical issues of genetics in society and sport will be discussed. Prerequisite: HHP 3380.


    EXS 4401 Seminar: Current Research in Exercise Science (I, II; 1)

    This course covers current topics related to the field of exercise science. The seminar will address current issues in exercise science as determined through researching relevant literature. This course will include interactive discussions and presentations related to exercise science topics.


    EXS 4419 Principles of Sports Conditioning (I; 3)

    Theory and application of biochemical and physiological principles to the development of strength and conditioning programs for selected sports. The course will cover the applied exercise training principles related to youth, amateur, collegiate and professional sports. Successful completion of the course will prepare students for national certification examinations for the National Strength and Conditioning Association or the American College of Sports Medicine. Prerequisite: HHP 3330, HHP 3340, and HHP 3380.


    EXS 4420 Introduction to Exercise Electrocardiography (I; 2)

    Study of basic normal and abnormal electrocardiography at rest and during exercise. The course is designed to train students in exercise science to recognize normal and abnormal heart rhythms associated with rese and exercise. Electrocardiographic recognition skill development will be critical in the supervision of graded exercises test. The course will prepare the student for national certification by the American College of Sports Medicine. Prerequisite: 3340.


    EXS 4421 Clinical Exercise Testing and Prescription (II; 3)

    Practical experience conducting graded exercise tests using various modes of exercise and utilizing the data the develop appropriate exercise prescription with emphasis on normal and disease populations. The course will prepare students for the national certification examinations by the American College of Sports Medicine. Prerequisite HHP 3330, HHP 3340, and EXS 4420.


    EXS 4422 Exercise in Special Populations (I; 2)

    An advanced course in prescribing exercise and supervision of populations with various patho-physiological conditions. Overview of exercise testing, electrocardiogram (EKG) interpretation, and exercise prescription and programming for monitoring individuals with special conditions due to age or disease (e.g. cardiac disease and abnormalities, hypertension, obesity, cancer, diabetes, neuromuscular disease, etc.). Prerequisite: EXS 4421.


    EXS 4425 Workplace Wellness and Health Promotion (II; 3)

    An overview of the theoretical and pragmatic aspects of conducting health promotion programs in the workplace. Discussions of rationale and relative effectiveness of various health components will be covered. Topics such as preseneteeism, financial impact of illness on the financial health of a company and development of wellness services within a corporate environment will be discussed. Various assessments to determine the health of employees and program development to address corporate health and wellness needs will be addressed.


    EXS 4440 Work Physiology (I, II; 3)

    A general introduction to anatomical structure, metabolism and biomechanics related to various occupation. This course, while presenting the anatomy and physiology needed to understand occupational life, will provide information related to conditions of physiological stress humans experience under occupational conditionals and training strategies to reduce stressors to promote a safe work environment. Prerequisite: HHP 3340 and EXS 3342.


    EXS 4490 Exercise Clinical Experience (I, II, III; 12)

    The student will actively participate in corporate, clinical, educational or field-related organizations receiving practical experience under the supervision of the cooperating agency/corporation and the University Coordinator. Students will not be permitted to take nay other courses during this internship/research course due to the intensive time commitment. Prerequisite: EXS 3356.


    EXS 4491 Exercise Science Research Project (I, II, III; 12)

    Students in the Integrated Exercise Physiology track will submit a research project for approval prior to taking this course. The results of the project will be completed and presented in a professional format during the semester. Students will not be permitted to take any other courses during this research project due to intensive time commitment Prerequisite: 3355.

Ergonomics station in use


Career Paths

A Central State exercise science degree prepares you to work in many levels of medical schools, physical sciences teaching, or rehabilitation science to name a few. You’ll fulfill professional requirements while getting a solid grounding in the basics as well as extensive research experience. And you’ll explore the many career paths available to you in the Exercise Science field.  

  • Exercise Testing and Prescription

  • Training, and Coaching, and Exercise Physiology

  • Physical sciences teaching

  • Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Kathleen Carter, RD, Ph.D.

Science is always changing and students should be encouraged to question current thinking.

Kathleen Carter, RD, Ph.D.

Experiences and Opportunities

Learning doesn’t stop when class ends. Opportunities to increase your knowledge and expand your network include hands-on research for all students, and top speakers from the field.   

  • At CSU, even undergraduates do research, whether it’s at the campus lab or off-campus at an internship. You’ll work with professors and research scientists, and some students present and publish nationally. 

  • You’ll hear about research, the bedrock of the field from guest speakers throughout the year. And you’ll begin to imagine the career paths you can take with your degree and the impact you’ll be able to have. 

  • Students who qualify for induction have access to national speakers and networks in the discipline.  

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