The Health and Exercise Science program core provides a solid foundation and a choice of three unique concentrations. The Kinesiology concentration prepares students for graduate studies in degree programs as diverse as exercise physiology, kinesiology, athletic training, chiropractic, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. The concentration allows students to meet the prerequisites for their desired continued education and the internship is designed to achieve the practical experience required by the graduate school of choice.
The Health Promotion concentration prepares students to enter the workforce after graduation, pursuing a variety of careers in vocations such as cardiac rehabilitation, health promotion, personal training and fitness management, athletic coaching, and other health-related fields. Our graduates work for healthcare facilities, non-profit organizations and private businesses. A required internship and several practicums provide opportunities for experience in the field of study. Interns often obtain employment with the organization where they interned immediately after graduation. Some students in this concentration will continue in graduate programs in business or education.
The Strength & Conditioning concentration prepares students to sit for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA). This concentration will set students up for success as a strength coach for athletes of any age. A variety of internships and practicums are required and will provide opportunities for experience in the field of study.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon graduation with a B.S. degree in Health and Exercise Science, USF students will:
- Demonstrate effective professional skills in the field.
- Demonstrate preparedness for employment and/or future studies in exercise science and health promotion.
- Critically evaluate research in the field of health and wellness in order to provide current, evidence-based information.
- Engage in ethical behavior and legal practice within the field of health promotion, exercise and fitness.
- Prescribe and administer exercise programs appropriate to individual needs using the concepts of human movement as they relate to the anatomical, physiological and biomechanical aspects of human movement.
Licensure/Certification Eligibility
If a student so chooses, a certification in personal training or strength and conditioning can be achieved as many courses prepare students to sit for the exams. Careful curriculum planning can prepare students to qualify and take the certified clinical exercise specialist (ACSM), certified personal trainer (ACSM or NSCA), health/fitness instructor (ACSM), and/or certified strength and conditioning specialist (NSCA) exam. Once students have completed the coursework for group exercise instruction or personal training, at any time during their college career, they are eligible and prepared to certify as a personal trainer or group exercise instructor.
Degree Requirements
The B.S. in Health and Exercise Science degree requires 120 credit hours:
- 36-37 credit hours for Franciscan Core Curriculum,
- 36-38 credit hours in the major core,
- 33 credit hours in a concentration of choice, and
- elective courses as needed
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