Exercise Science B.A.Sc.

Exercise science majors engage in the study of all aspects of human movement including motor skill development and acquisition, biomechanics, movement efficiency, physiological responses and adaptations of organ systems, anatomical development, and psycho-sociological influences. The primary program objective is to assist students in preparing themselves for success in graduate and professional studies as well as to be competent practitioners in clinical, health-related, and sports-related professions.

The bachelor of applied science degree in exercise science has foundations in mammalian biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and mathematics. After two years of science and liberal education, degree candidates engage in the advanced study of their selected concentration, focusing on professional and graduate studies or applications of exercise science (health care professions or human performance professions). Depending on the concentration selected, either an internship or research project is the capstone requirement.

The exercise science curriculum uses laboratory experiences for active learning. Most upper level ESAT courses have a graded laboratory component. Students work under    supervision in the Exercise Physiology Laboratory, Biomechanics Laboratory, and Motor Learning and Vision Laboratory. Students combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience in electrocardiography, exercise testing, exercise supervision, applied nutrition, and    strength and conditioning procedures in a managed learning environment. They monitor and mentor students involved in exercise programs. Labs and other physical facilities allow learning via student research and activity. Substantial opportunities exist for interested students to conduct independent research under the guidance of faculty mentors. Such projects have potential to be presented at the local, state, and national professional meetings. This provides students with unparalleled opportunity for professional development and personal growth.

Admission Requirements

A GPA above 2.00 is preferred for the following:
   2.5 for students already admitted to the degree-granting college.
   2.5 for students transferring from another University of Minnesota college.
   2.5 for students transferring from outside the University.

Freshman students are admitted to this program as pre-majors. Pre-majors advance to exercise science major (candidate) after completing requirements listed under "Admission to the major." Students requesting to transfer to this program must have signed approval of the exercise science faculty coordinator. Pre-majors and candidates will not be permitted to register for, and can be removed from, ESAT courses for which they have not completed all listed course prerequisites.

Admission to the major (degree cnadidacy) is contingent upon the following:
¿ Completion of the 8 courses listed below under Pre-Exercise Science From Other Programs.
¿ Being within one semester of completing all University liberal education requirements.
¿ Possessing a minimum University of Minnesota and overall (including transfer credits) 2.50 GPA.

For information about University of Minnesota admission requirements, visit the   Office of Admissions Web site.

General Requirements

Program Requirements

Requirements for the B.A.Sc. in exercise science include:

¿ Completion of courses to total at least 120 credits.

¿ Completion of at least 35 credits in liberal education coursework as prescribed in the Liberal Education Program and the advanced writing requirement: WRIT 3150.

¿ Completion of all courses specified for the major, including concentration.

¿ A minimum University of Minnesota and overall (including transfer credits) 2.50 GPA.

¿ Compliance with general regulations governing granting of degrees. Students are required to review their degree status in the CEHSP Advising & Academic Services Office early in their senior year.

¿Degree candidates must complete at least 30 degree credits at UMD. At least 20 of the last 30 degree credits immediately before graduation must be taken at UMD.

¿ The academic progress of all pre-majors and majors is closely monitored. A 2.50 overall GPA is required to advance from pre-major to major (candidate) status. Only students admitted to the major (candidate) may register for ESAT courses that list "exercise science cand" as a prerequisite. A major (candidate) who does not possess an overall 2.50 GPA will return immediately to pre-major status. Such student will not be permitted to enroll in or remain enrolled in any ESAT course that lists "exercise science cand" as a prerequisite.

Program Sub-plans

Students are required to complete one of the following sub-plans. (Note for the Twin Cities and
Morris campuses: The honors sub-plan does not meet this requirement. Honors students are required to
complete one sub-plan plus the honors sub-plan. Please see an adviser if no honors sub-plan is listed
for the program.)
                 

The bachelor of applied science (B.A.S.) in exercise science with a concentration in exercise and sport science prepares students for admission to graduate programs in exercise science (biomechanics, exercise physiology, sports psychology), the health professions (including medicine, physician assistant, occupational and physical therapy), and clinically applied professions such as clinical exercise physiologist and cardiac rehabilitation.

The required curriculum includes a liberal education background, a core of basic and applied sciences, and courses in the exercise science subdisciplines, and either a senior project or an internship in a sport, exercise, educational, or public service/workplace setting. This area of study is primarily for students who intend to pursue advanced degrees in an exercise science specialization or to seek admission to a professional program in the health sciences.

The bachelor of applied science (B.A.S.) in exercise science with a concentration in health fitness prepares students for professional involvement with clients in clinical, commercial, corporate, and service agency fitness and health programs. The curriculum prepares students to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) for professionals in clinical and health-related programs. Completion of the degree program does not ensure ACSM certification.

The B.A.Sc. in exercise science with a concentration in a special area of interest prepares students for admission to graduate programs in exercise science, the traditional health professions, and clinically allied professions. Special areas of interest fall outside the approved concentrations in health and fitness, and exercise sport science. They are subject to approval by the department.

The required curriculum includes a liberal education background, a core of basic and applied sciences, ESAT core courses, and either a senior project or an internship in a sport, exercise, educational, or public service/workplace setting.

This special area of study is primarily for students who intend to pursue advanced degrees in an exercise science specialization or to seek admission to a professional program in the health sciences that falls outside of the preparation given in the other concentrations.