Exercise Science (BS) - General Exercise Science

About

Exercise science prepares students to work in exercise and health-related areas by examining the effects of physical activity on the human body.

The Exercise Science (BS) degree at Appalachian State University offers courses toward a flexible career path with multiple options. The extensive choices within the Exercise Science electives and Interdisciplinary electives provide the foundation required for immediate employment in the fitness/wellness industry or for successful admission to health professions graduate programs.

Faculty in App State’s Department of Public Health and Exercise Science are nationally and internationally known researchers who are also expert teachers.

After Graduation

Employment: Students graduating with this degree will be prepared for careers in fitness or wellness programs with the general public, including positions such as an exercise specialist for cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs or as a youth wellness specialist.

Graduate School: Students can pursue graduate programs in exercise science to prepare for working in an academic setting or to further prepare for specific careers in the field. If students have chosen the correct prerequisite courses and meet all other requirements, they may also apply for various health-related professional programs. Many exercise science graduates go on to graduate school to become occupational therapists, physical therapists, doctors, and physician assistants.

Career Exploration website

People

Student Profile: Cole Garrison

Garrison, an offensive lineman on the Mountaineers football team who is nationally recognized for his scholastic achievements, is headed to the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine — the next milestone on his journey to become a surgeon.
Student Profile: Letissia Akue ka

Letissia Akue ka is one of two recipients of the Beaver College of Health Sciences (BCHS) Advisory Council Scholarship. After she graduates, Akue ka plans to obtain a paid internship before applying to physical therapy programs.
Alumna Profile: Megan Campany ’19

A student-athlete, Campany came to Appalachian knowing she would eventually apply to medical school and pursue a career as a surgeon. After being able to choose between some of the finest medical schools in the United States, she is now earning her medical degree at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine (MCASOM) in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Alumna Profile: Ashlyn Lowder ’20

Ashlyn Lowder plans to attend graduate school to become a Physician Assistant (PA). But first, she’s landed the opportunity to spend a year serving as an educational leadership consultant for Alpha Phi International.

Courses

Program of Study
- Students pursuing this major explore Human Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics and more.
Four Year Guide

– click on the pdf for your major
NCCC Transfer Four Year Guide

Related Programs

Minors

A minor is not required. Some students choose to minor in Biology, Chemistry, Nutrition, Psychology, or Sport Science and Coaching.

View all minors

Engagement Outside the Classroom

Exercise Science Club - designed for students majoring or minoring in exercise science or those interested in the field of exercise science. The club is a great way for students to meet each other and learn important information about the major and what you can do with it after graduation.

Global Learning

App State is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.

Admission Requirements

There are no admission requirements beyond admission to Appalachian State University.

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Degrees

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Costs and Aid

Why Appalachian?

The Department of Public Health and Exercise Science is housed in App State’s Levine Hall of Health Sciences, a state-of-the-art facility with innovative classrooms and labs.
Students have opportunities to conduct research alongside their professors and contribute to finding innovative solutions for regional and national problems. They also present their findings at professional conferences.

Location

Boone campus

Careers

Exercise Physiologist
Exercise Specialist
Exercise Testing Technician
Fitness Instructor
Fitness Center Program Director
Hospital Wellness Program Director
Corporate Fitness Director
Personal Trainer
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Sport Scientist

Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Contacts

Dr. N. Travis Triplett
triplttnt@mxy163.com
828-262-7148

Beaver College of Health Sciences

Department of Public Health and Exercise Science
The Department of Public Health and Exercise Science in Appalachian State University’s Beaver College of Health Sciences delivers student-centered education that is accentuated by quality teaching, scholarly activity and service. The department includes two undergraduate academic disciplines: exercise science and public health. The department also offers two master’s degrees: athletic training, which leads to professional licensure, and exercise science, which prepares students for advanced study in a variety of related fields as well as research. Learn more at phes.mxy163.com.

Beaver College of Health Sciences
The Beaver College of Health Sciences opened in 2010 as the result of an Appalachian commitment to significantly enhance the health and quality of life for individuals, families and communities in North Carolina and beyond.

Exciting, Growing Career Fields
- Nearly all undergraduate and graduate programs are in fields recognized as growing “faster than average for all occupations” by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Currently over 3,700 students pursue degrees in 16 undergraduate and graduate programs
- Students who graduate are successfully prepared for a variety of general and advanced careers in health care
Real-World Training and Experience
- Programs emphasize coursework, research and clinical outreach with a dedication to cultivating life-long learners and practical skills for the field
- Internships, field experiences and clinical placements in real-world settings in the community and surrounding areas ensure students are prepared to meet existing and future health-related workforce needs, particularly in rural areas
- Interprofessional and collaborative research between students and faculty gives students unparalleled experience in working together with other health and wellness professionals
- Research opportunities alongside over 150 nationally and internationally trained faculty mean students have opportunities to contribute to finding innovative solutions to regional and national problems in their field
Advanced Laboratories and Facilities
- Over 20 laboratories and additional locations for simulated research and applied laboratory training experience
- Partnerships and opportunities with the Wake Forest Physician Assistant Program
- The new Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences that opened in the fall 2018 with innovative classrooms and state-of-the-art labs
- Continued main campus connection through the Holmes Convocation Center, which houses the RMPE Department and the Advising Satellite Office