The exercise science major curriculum is derived from the national standards as set forth by the gold standard organizations in our field - the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). The exercise science major is attractive to students who have an interest in sports, exercise, health fields, personal training, and corporate fitness and wellness positions. Our major also prepares students for graduate studies in physical therapy, athletic training, occupational therapy, or sports medicine. Our rigorous curriculum prepares students to take nationally accredited certification exams for the NSCA – Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and the ACSM - Certified Exercise Physiologist (C-EP). Salem offers both a bachelor of arts (BA) and a bachelor of science (BS) in exercise science.
You will be able to complete a bachelor of science (BS) degree in exercise science or you may complete a bachelor of arts (BA) degree. You may also choose to take courses for a coaching minor.
The exercise science major is attractive to students who have an interest working in the areas of corporate fitness and wellness. It also prepares students for graduate studies in areas such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training. Exercise science is a rigorous program designed to help students be prepared for taking the American College of Sports Medicine’s Certified Exercise Physiologist exam and the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist exam.
Salem offers both a bachelor of arts (BA) and a bachelor of science (BS) in exercise science. For the BA you must complete a minimum of 15 courses, including 11 exercise science courses. For the BS you must complete a minimum of 21 courses, including 12 exercise science courses. You may also choose to take courses for a coaching minor.
The major in exercise science will give you access to faculty members in exercise science, biology, chemistry, and physics along with a wide variety of opportunities complete internships.
The bachelor of arts in exercise science is designed for students interested in working in the health field, personal training, corporate fitness, wellness positions, or other sport and exercise related fields.
Required core courses:
NOTE: The EXER 180/280 requirement in the major may be waived if students can demonstrate current certification in first aid/CPR. Such a waiver does not alter the physical education activity course requirement toward the Salem Signature.
Required senior capstone courses:
Major elective (choose one):
Students interested in attending graduate school in exercise science, athletic training, sports medicine, cardiac rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, clinical exercise physiology, or other allied health fields are encouraged to complete the work for a bachelor of science degree in exercise science.
Required courses:
NOTE: The EXER 180/280 requirement in the major may be waived if students can demonstrate current certification in first aid/CPR. Such a waiver does not alter the physical education activity course requirement toward the Salem Signature.
The coaching minor curriculum is derived from the National Standards for Sport Coaches. The completion of the program meets all thirty-seven standards as set by SHAPE America.
Required courses:
NOTE: The EXER 180/280 requirement in the major may be waived if students can demonstrate current certification in first aid/CPR. Such a waiver does not alter the physical education activity course requirement toward the Salem Signature.
This course is an overview of the many areas of study and possible professions in the field of exercise science, whether in an academic setting, clinical setting, or at a fitness or sport venue. Careers in exercise physiology, athletic training, physical therapy, nutrition, strength and conditioning., or exercise/sport psychology will be discussed. The course offers an excellent balance of theory, research, and application and places an emphasis on exploring exercise through the female lens.
Examination of the methods of teaching sport skills in a competitive environment. The purpose will be to promote athletes’ growth, development, and learning, while developing the skills necessary to lead a sport program. Emphasis is placed on developing leadership skills necessary to lead a sport program. Theoretical research on healthy teams, teamwork, competitiveness, and gender will be explored.
This ½ semester course covers American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED for the adult and pediatrics. Successfully passing written and practical exams will result in Red Cross certification. This course does not fulfill the activity requirement and it is for EXER majors only.
Independent study under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Open to students with a 2.0 cumulative grade point average and permission of the chair of the department. Independent study may take the form of readings, research, conference, project, and/or field experience. Independent study may be taken for a total of two courses, the maximum in any one term being one course credit. Search techniques and preparation of materials utilized for acquisition of employment and/or internships in exercise science and health fields. Internship process, policies, and procedures will be covered. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
This course helps students understand the real life implications of nutrition. Students learn about the roles of macro- and micronutrients in the body. The class examines the impact of food choices on metabolism, body composition, and weight control. Discussion centers on nutrition misinformation, consumer issues, and major diseases that may be affected by eating behaviors. Recommended prerequisite: 1 from either CHEM 050, CHEM 110, BIOL 010 or BIOL 100. (QI)
This course is designed as an introductory course to the field of sport and exercise psychology. The course will examine the theories and research related to sport and exercise behavior, and includes an overview of the major topics of sport and exercise psychology. These could include but are not be limited to personality, motivation, self-efficacy, goal setting, stress, and rehabilitation. A focus will be on enhancing participation and performance through practical applications of theory.
This course offers a critical survey of the origins and historical evolution of modern women’s sports in the United States. The course will consider the social and cultural variables which influenced and shaped athletics for females, famous historical figures and moments in women’s sport, and the significance of the contemporary women’s sports revolution. Particular emphasis will be placed on the obstacles faced by female athletes. (WS)
This course is an introduction to the theoretical and practical approach to caring for injured and ill athletes. Topics include emergency procedures and safety skills; preventive procedures in athletic training; the duties and qualifications of athletic training personnel; and an understanding of the importance of physical conditioning for prevention of injuries. The course includes demonstrations and practical experience in taping and bandaging techniques. Course fee will apply.
This course presents an overview of organizational and administrative practices relative to health and fitness settings. Students will gain knowledge necessary to manage personnel, facilities, and finances. Legal issues and marketing techniques will also be discussed. Prerequisite: EXER 100.
This course is a study of the social and cultural contexts in which sport and exercise occur. Analyses of the social forces affecting individuals’ involvement in formal and informal sport and structural variables influencing choices about physical activity engagements will be considered. Several critical theories will be used to analyze sport and its relationship to power, social stratification (gender, race, class, and physicality), human agency, nationalism, social problems, and other social institutions such as the family, politics, mass media, and education. The goal of this course is to uncover strategies necessary to increase opportunities for all to benefit from sport and physical activity.
An opportunity to use the knowledge and skills learned in coursework to gain experience in a real work setting. The apprenticeship aspect of the internship implies that the student has some base of knowledge and will increase her knowledge and skills by direct contact with an experienced, knowledgeable mentor working in an exercise science or allied health field. Open to juniors and seniors with at least a 2.0 cumulative average who have completed EXER 310 or EXER 320, maximum credit is one course or credit; admission by application only.
An opportunity to use the knowledge and skills learned in coursework for an approved coaching experience of 80-160 hours at the youth, community partnership, junior high, high school or college level. The student will work with an experienced, knowledgeable mentor in an approved setting. Open to coaching minors who have completed all other coursework; maximum credit is one course; admission by application only. Exercise Science majors may, with permission of the program director, satisfy the internship requirement through EXER 270.
Advanced independent study in Exercise Science under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Normally open to juniors and seniors with a 3.5 average in exercise science. Subject to the approval of the chair of the department. Honors work may be taken for a maximum of two courses.
This course studies the physiological response of the human body to physical activity. The acute and chronic responses to the muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory and other systems of the body are examined. Laboratory experiences will involve the application of concepts regarding the human body’s response to the stress of exercise, sport and long-term physical training. Two lectures and one laboratory each week. Two lectures and one laboratory each week. Prerequisites: BIOL 218 and 219; MATH 060 or higher.
This course is a study of the anatomical and mechanical bases of physical activity with emphasis on the analysis of sport and exercise skills. Content also includes understanding muscular imbalances, physiological support systems, body types, movement behavior and movement efficiency. This course is the physics applied to human movement and students are strongly recommended to have taken PHYS 210 prior to enrollment. Lectures, additional focused colloquium required. Prerequisites: BIOL 218 and 219; MATH 060 or higher; PHYS 210 recommended.
This course provides a survey of current assessment instruments in exercise science and sport with an emphasis on test selection, administration and interpretation of results. Principles of test construction and use relative to skills, knowledge and behavior will be included. Prerequisites: EXER 100; MATH 060 or higher.
This course will aid students in gaining knowledge to design and implement strength training and conditioning programs for individuals as well as athletes in a team setting. It will also cover administrative concerns for leadership of such training programs. This course will prepare the student to sit for the Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification from the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA). A passing grade in this course is not, however, a guarantee that the student will pass the CSCS certification examination. May serve as the senior capstone course in the major. Prerequisites: EXER 310 and EXER 320.
This course studies appropriate exercise instruction and exercise programming. The course provides for resistive training, anaerobic and aerobic exercise across different populations. A major part of the course will be reviewing competencies for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Health Fitness Specialist (HFS) certification exam. A passing grade in this course is not, however, a guarantee that the student will pass the ACSM HFS certification examination. May serve as the senior capstone course in the major. Prerequisites: EXER 310 and EXER 320.
This course includes examination of basic quantitative and qualitative research methods, theories, and data collection practices. Students will also review and evaluate current research from the sub-disciplines in exercise science including exercise physiology, biomechanics, coaching, strength and conditioning, psychology of sport and exercise, and sociology of sport and exercise. Open to EXER majors with junior or senior standing.
You will be able to complete a bachelor of science (BS) degree in exercise science or you may complete a bachelor of arts (BA) degree. You may also choose to take courses for a coaching minor.
The exercise science major is attractive to students who have an interest working in the areas of corporate fitness and wellness. It also prepares students for graduate studies in areas such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training. Exercise science is a rigorous program designed to help students be prepared for taking the American College of Sports Medicine’s Certified Exercise Physiologist exam and the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist exam.
Salem offers both a bachelor of arts (BA) and a bachelor of science (BS) in exercise science. For the BA you must complete a minimum of 15 courses, including 11 exercise science courses. For the BS you must complete a minimum of 21 courses, including 12 exercise science courses. You may also choose to take courses for a coaching minor.
The major in exercise science will give you access to faculty members in exercise science, biology, chemistry, and physics along with a wide variety of opportunities complete internships.
The bachelor of arts in exercise science is designed for students interested in working in the health field, personal training, corporate fitness, wellness positions, or other sport and exercise related fields.
Required core courses:
NOTE: The EXER 180/280 requirement in the major may be waived if students can demonstrate current certification in first aid/CPR. Such a waiver does not alter the physical education activity course requirement toward the Salem Signature.
Required senior capstone courses:
Major elective (choose one):
Students interested in attending graduate school in exercise science, athletic training, sports medicine, cardiac rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, clinical exercise physiology, or other allied health fields are encouraged to complete the work for a bachelor of science degree in exercise science.
Required courses:
NOTE: The EXER 180/280 requirement in the major may be waived if students can demonstrate current certification in first aid/CPR. Such a waiver does not alter the physical education activity course requirement toward the Salem Signature.
The coaching minor curriculum is derived from the National Standards for Sport Coaches. The completion of the program meets all thirty-seven standards as set by SHAPE America.
Required courses:
NOTE: The EXER 180/280 requirement in the major may be waived if students can demonstrate current certification in first aid/CPR. Such a waiver does not alter the physical education activity course requirement toward the Salem Signature.
This course is an overview of the many areas of study and possible professions in the field of exercise science, whether in an academic setting, clinical setting, or at a fitness or sport venue. Careers in exercise physiology, athletic training, physical therapy, nutrition, strength and conditioning., or exercise/sport psychology will be discussed. The course offers an excellent balance of theory, research, and application and places an emphasis on exploring exercise through the female lens.
Examination of the methods of teaching sport skills in a competitive environment. The purpose will be to promote athletes’ growth, development, and learning, while developing the skills necessary to lead a sport program. Emphasis is placed on developing leadership skills necessary to lead a sport program. Theoretical research on healthy teams, teamwork, competitiveness, and gender will be explored.
This ½ semester course covers American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED for the adult and pediatrics. Successfully passing written and practical exams will result in Red Cross certification. This course does not fulfill the activity requirement and it is for EXER majors only.
Independent study under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Open to students with a 2.0 cumulative grade point average and permission of the chair of the department. Independent study may take the form of readings, research, conference, project, and/or field experience. Independent study may be taken for a total of two courses, the maximum in any one term being one course credit. Search techniques and preparation of materials utilized for acquisition of employment and/or internships in exercise science and health fields. Internship process, policies, and procedures will be covered. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
This course helps students understand the real life implications of nutrition. Students learn about the roles of macro- and micronutrients in the body. The class examines the impact of food choices on metabolism, body composition, and weight control. Discussion centers on nutrition misinformation, consumer issues, and major diseases that may be affected by eating behaviors. Recommended prerequisite: 1 from either CHEM 050, CHEM 110, BIOL 010 or BIOL 100. (QI)
This course is designed as an introductory course to the field of sport and exercise psychology. The course will examine the theories and research related to sport and exercise behavior, and includes an overview of the major topics of sport and exercise psychology. These could include but are not be limited to personality, motivation, self-efficacy, goal setting, stress, and rehabilitation. A focus will be on enhancing participation and performance through practical applications of theory.
This course offers a critical survey of the origins and historical evolution of modern women’s sports in the United States. The course will consider the social and cultural variables which influenced and shaped athletics for females, famous historical figures and moments in women’s sport, and the significance of the contemporary women’s sports revolution. Particular emphasis will be placed on the obstacles faced by female athletes. (WS)
This course is an introduction to the theoretical and practical approach to caring for injured and ill athletes. Topics include emergency procedures and safety skills; preventive procedures in athletic training; the duties and qualifications of athletic training personnel; and an understanding of the importance of physical conditioning for prevention of injuries. The course includes demonstrations and practical experience in taping and bandaging techniques. Course fee will apply.
This course presents an overview of organizational and administrative practices relative to health and fitness settings. Students will gain knowledge necessary to manage personnel, facilities, and finances. Legal issues and marketing techniques will also be discussed. Prerequisite: EXER 100.
This course is a study of the social and cultural contexts in which sport and exercise occur. Analyses of the social forces affecting individuals’ involvement in formal and informal sport and structural variables influencing choices about physical activity engagements will be considered. Several critical theories will be used to analyze sport and its relationship to power, social stratification (gender, race, class, and physicality), human agency, nationalism, social problems, and other social institutions such as the family, politics, mass media, and education. The goal of this course is to uncover strategies necessary to increase opportunities for all to benefit from sport and physical activity.
An opportunity to use the knowledge and skills learned in coursework to gain experience in a real work setting. The apprenticeship aspect of the internship implies that the student has some base of knowledge and will increase her knowledge and skills by direct contact with an experienced, knowledgeable mentor working in an exercise science or allied health field. Open to juniors and seniors with at least a 2.0 cumulative average who have completed EXER 310 or EXER 320, maximum credit is one course or credit; admission by application only.
An opportunity to use the knowledge and skills learned in coursework for an approved coaching experience of 80-160 hours at the youth, community partnership, junior high, high school or college level. The student will work with an experienced, knowledgeable mentor in an approved setting. Open to coaching minors who have completed all other coursework; maximum credit is one course; admission by application only. Exercise Science majors may, with permission of the program director, satisfy the internship requirement through EXER 270.
Advanced independent study in Exercise Science under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Normally open to juniors and seniors with a 3.5 average in exercise science. Subject to the approval of the chair of the department. Honors work may be taken for a maximum of two courses.
This course studies the physiological response of the human body to physical activity. The acute and chronic responses to the muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory and other systems of the body are examined. Laboratory experiences will involve the application of concepts regarding the human body’s response to the stress of exercise, sport and long-term physical training. Two lectures and one laboratory each week. Two lectures and one laboratory each week. Prerequisites: BIOL 218 and 219; MATH 060 or higher.
This course is a study of the anatomical and mechanical bases of physical activity with emphasis on the analysis of sport and exercise skills. Content also includes understanding muscular imbalances, physiological support systems, body types, movement behavior and movement efficiency. This course is the physics applied to human movement and students are strongly recommended to have taken PHYS 210 prior to enrollment. Lectures, additional focused colloquium required. Prerequisites: BIOL 218 and 219; MATH 060 or higher; PHYS 210 recommended.
This course provides a survey of current assessment instruments in exercise science and sport with an emphasis on test selection, administration and interpretation of results. Principles of test construction and use relative to skills, knowledge and behavior will be included. Prerequisites: EXER 100; MATH 060 or higher.
This course will aid students in gaining knowledge to design and implement strength training and conditioning programs for individuals as well as athletes in a team setting. It will also cover administrative concerns for leadership of such training programs. This course will prepare the student to sit for the Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification from the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA). A passing grade in this course is not, however, a guarantee that the student will pass the CSCS certification examination. May serve as the senior capstone course in the major. Prerequisites: EXER 310 and EXER 320.
This course studies appropriate exercise instruction and exercise programming. The course provides for resistive training, anaerobic and aerobic exercise across different populations. A major part of the course will be reviewing competencies for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Health Fitness Specialist (HFS) certification exam. A passing grade in this course is not, however, a guarantee that the student will pass the ACSM HFS certification examination. May serve as the senior capstone course in the major. Prerequisites: EXER 310 and EXER 320.
This course includes examination of basic quantitative and qualitative research methods, theories, and data collection practices. Students will also review and evaluate current research from the sub-disciplines in exercise science including exercise physiology, biomechanics, coaching, strength and conditioning, psychology of sport and exercise, and sociology of sport and exercise. Open to EXER majors with junior or senior standing.
