Exercise Science
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science, the possibilities are endless. The Exercise Science program will equip you to conduct and evaluate health and fitness assessments, design and implement exercise programs, and monitor health and fitness changes over time.
The Exercise Science major is perfect for students who are interested in the intersection of science and fitness. The program prepares you for a career working with individuals seeking to improve their health and wellness or for post-graduate study. If you appreciate exercise and maintaining the human body, are comfortable working with people from a variety of backgrounds, and learning about the impacts of personal health on society, a degree in Exercise Science can provide you with the skills necessary to find fulfilling employment.
What You'll Study
In your first two years at Lees-McRae, you will develop a well-rounded educational foundation in liberal arts and science, strengthening your ability to think critically and communicate effectively.
During your junior and senior years, you will be immersed in exercise science-focused courses with components of kinesiology, nutrition, anatomy and physiology, and injury prevention.
You’ll receive outstanding academic advising, student-centered learning, and an experiential education.
Beyond the Classroom
In the Exercise Science program at Lees-McRae, learning goes beyond lecture. Educational activities include hands-on learning experiences through state of the art technologies like 3G wireless human simulators and laboratories uniquely outfitted for this program.
Students gain real world experience by completing one 200-hour internship during their junior or senior year, in a setting which may include local hospitals, community centers, homeless shelters, nursing homes, and health and wellness centers.
After Graduation
Exercise science and wellness job options include working with college and professional sports teams, Olympic and international sports teams, Special Olympics, Paralympics, the YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs, geriatric facilities, gyms, fitness centers, and in corporate health and wellness programs.
Graduates can find careers in the following fields, among others:
- Athletics—Athletic Trainer, Personal Trainer, Health Club Owner/Manager
- Healthcare—Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, Sports Physicians
For those interested in pursuing further education, the curriculum fulfills the pre-requisites for many graduate programs including Master of Science in Athletic Training, Master of Science in Exercise Science, Master of Science in Public Health, and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy.
Career information is provided through Vault and O'Net. Current Lees-McRae students can see the full results on Vault using their student email and password.
What does a career in Exercise Science look like?
Exercise Science alumni Lauren Davidson ’21, Matthew Dunn ’20, and Joshua Hall ’20 talk about the program and the many doors it has opened for them.
“During my time at Lees-McRae, I found that the Exercise Science program was designed to offer students a strong foundation while allowing them to explore various career tracks, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, certified nutritionist, and more,” Davidson said. “Depending on individual interests and career goals, the advisors played a crucial role in guiding students down the appropriate path and tailoring course schedules to align with their desired career track to ensure their success both during their undergraduate years and in their chosen field after graduation.”
Meet the Faculty
Jordan Johnson
Program Coordinator and Instructor of Exercise Science
Dee Medford-Baker
Program Coordinator for Pre-Physical Therapy, Associate Professor of Exercise Science and Biology