Exercise Science Bachelor of Science Degree

An exercise science degree that scientifically addresses issues of health and fitness by focusing on how people can recover from the unhealthy effects of chronic lifestyle diseases and on training athletes to extend and expand their performance.


100%

Outcome Rate of RIT Graduates from this degree

100%

Of all incoming RIT first-year and transfer students receive aid


Overview for Exercise Science BS

As an exercise science major you will learn to scientifically address issues of health and fitness as well as human performance as part of a rapidly growing field. A clinical track focuses on helping people recover from the unhealthy effects of a sedentary lifestyle and an athletic track focuses on training athletes to extend and expand their capacity for exceptional human performance.

RIT’s exercise science degree is designed to be completed in four years and is offered at RIT as an on-campus learning experience. The program also offers clinical and athletic tracks.

The clinical track is designed for students interested in using exercise as therapy. Clinical exercise medicine is an emerging field that is poised to grow as the population ages. This field is for students who see the opportunity to provide exercise/fitness services as an integrated medical service. With an entrepreneurial spirit, students prepare themselves to become the newest practitioners in the health care field. Clinical exercise physiologists perform fitness assessments, design exercise prescriptions, and implement therapeutic exercise programs for health promotion.

The athletic track is for students who want to raise the bar of performance for athletes at all levels. A scientific approach to athletic conditioning improves performance while maintaining the health of athletes. Athletic track courses allow students to learn how to better train and maintain athletes, especially those performing at intense levels of competition. Skilled strength and conditioning specialists are in demand at all levels of sports and the prevalence of private-sector sports-specific training facilities has never been higher. Students interested in a career to train athletes and enhance the capabilities of those who play sports will be well prepared to advise and guide the next generation of athletic performers.

Program Goals and Student Learning Outcomes

The exercise science program has set the following student goals and learning outcomes:

Integrate scientific information and research into practice

  • Demonstrate how to locate, interpret, evaluate, and use professional literature to make ethical practice decisions.
  • Use current information technologies to locate and apply evidence-based guidelines and protocols.

Develop communication skills and professional behaviors for entry into pre-professional practice

  • Demonstrate effective and professional oral and written communication
  • Demonstrate assertiveness, advocacy, and negotiation skills appropriate to the situation
  • Demonstrate counseling techniques to facilitate behavior change
  • Apply established guidelines to professional practice
  • Describe the professional roles that collaborate with an exercise physiologist in the delivery of fitness services

Develop and deliver information and clinical customer services

  • Use the fitness assessment process to make decisions, identify problems and evaluate fitness interventions
  • Apply knowledge of the role of the environment, exercise, and lifestyle choices to develop interventions to affect change and enhance wellness in diverse individuals and groups
  • Utilize knowledge of education and behavior change theories to develop an educational session or program for a target population

Demonstrate foundational knowledge of core sciences

  • Demonstrate knowledge of physical, chemical, and biological sciences

Prepare students for successful completion of National Fitness Certification Exams

  • Acquire the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for successful completion of an advanced certification with an organization accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). Examples include the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), Certified Exercise Physiologist, and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.

Minor in Exercise Science

The exercise science minor is designed to prepare students to take an accredited certification exam and to become a professionally credentialed personal trainer. The minor is open to all RIT students, except those majoring in exercise science.

Certificate in Exercise Science

Completion of the certificate in exercise science prepares you for employment as an entry-level service provider in a fitness facility. To enroll in the certificate program, you do not need to be a matriculated student at RIT. The certificate requires the completion of three courses. For additional information, including curriculum and admissions information, please visit the exercise science certificate program page.

Certification

Students who complete the athletic track are prepared to achieve professional certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). The CSCS is a highly respected and sought-after credential in the field of strength conditioning. Students completing the clinical track are well prepared to take the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Exercise Physiologist exam. This certification validates the knowledge, skills, and abilities of fitness and exercise practitioners who are prepared to work with people diagnosed with chronic diseases.

Exercise Science as a Pathway to Medical School

An exercise science degree can allow to pursue your passion for human performance and prepare you to apply to medical school.

Physicians who understand the value of regular exercise in the management of chronic disease conditions such as coronary artery disease and diabetes are often successful providers in future models of health care. An undergraduate education in exercise science is an ideal way to develop this knowledge while preparing for entrance to medical school. RIT's exercise science major also prepares you for certification as an ACSM Exercise Physiologist, a credential that verifies your knowledge, skills, and abilities in exercise prescription and qualifies you for employment in a number of growing areas of fitness provision. 

The exercise science major also provides you with an excellent education that serves as a strong foundation for a medical career that follows the principles of Exercise is Medicine, a global health initiative managed by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), which seeks to increase the use of exercise as a primacy therapeutic modality for the management of chronic disease. 

Premedical and Health Professions Advisory Program

Medical schools and graduate programs in the health professions (such as physician assistant, physical therapy, and occupational therapy) welcome applications from students majoring in a wide range of academic programs. Acceptance into these programs requires the completion of pre-med requirements such as course work in biological and physical sciences, a strong academic record, pertinent experiences in the field, and key intrapersonal and interpersonal capabilities. Learn more about how RIT’s Premedical and Health Professions Advisory Program can help you become a competitive candidate for admission to graduate programs in the medical and health professions.

2+2 Transfer Options

The exercise science program has articulation agreements with a number of colleges that enable you to seamlessly transfer into the exercise science program upon the successful completion of your associate degree at one of the following schools. For more information regarding these 2+2 transfer options, please contact Undergraduate Admissions or the program director.

Learn more about transferring credits and additional information about transferring to RIT by visiting the Transfer Admissions website.

Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees

Today’s careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT’s Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.

  • Exercise Science BS/Health and Well-Being Management MS: In this combined accelerated dual degree, the exercise science BS provides a strong background in science, health, and human performance. The health and well-being management MS facilitates advance study of these topics and the acquisition of skills in research, evaluation, and management. For those interested in pre-med or pre-health, an advising pathway in the undergraduate exercise sciences program combined with the research training at the graduate degree maximizes your candidacy for admission to advanced-level graduate programs in medical, dental, and allied health programs.  
  • +1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor’s degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success.
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Careers and Experiential Learning

Typical Job Titles

Personal Trainer Strength and Conditioning Coach
Fitness Specialist

Industries

  • Health Care
  • Sports and Leisure
  • Health, Wellness, and Fitness
  • Non-Profit

Cooperative Education and Internships

Cooperative education and internships are work experience in your field of study. And they set RIT graduates apart from their competitors. It’s exposure–early and often–to a variety of professional work environments, career paths, and industries. Cooperative education and internships are designed for your success.

Cooperative education and internships are optional but strongly encouraged for students in the exercise science major.

Featured Work

Curriculum for 2023-2024 for Exercise Science BS

Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements

Exercise Science, BS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
BIOL-101
 General Biology I (General Education)
This course serves as an introduction to cellular, molecular, and evolutionary biology. Topics will include: a study of the basic principles of modern cellular biology, including cell structure and function; the chemical basis and functions of life, including enzyme systems and gene expression; and the origin of life and evolutionary patterns of organism development on Earth. Lecture 3 (Fall, Summer).
3
BIOL-102
General Biology II (General Education)
This course serves as an introduction to animal and plant anatomy and physiology, in addition to the fundamentals of ecology. Topics will include: animal development; animal body systems; plant development; unique plant systems; Earth's terrestrial and aquatic environments; population and community ecology; animal behavior; and conservation biology. Lecture 3 (Spring, Summer).
3
BIOL-103
 General Biology I Lab (General Education)
This course provides laboratory work to complement the lecture material of General Biology I. The experiments are designed to illustrate concepts of basic cellular and molecular biology, develop laboratory skills and techniques for microscopy, and improve ability to make, record and interpret observations. (Co-requisites: BIOL-101 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Fall, Summer).
1
BIOL-104
General Biology II Lab (General Education)
This course provides laboratory work to complement the material of General Biology II. The experiments are designed to illustrate concepts of animal and plant anatomy and physiology, develop laboratory skills and techniques for experimenting with live organisms, and improve ability to make, record, and interpret observations. (Co-requisites: BIOL-102 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Spring, Summer).
1
CHMG-141
General & Analytical Chemistry I (General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective)
This is a general chemistry course for students in the life and physical sciences. College chemistry is presented as a science based on empirical evidence that is placed into the context of conceptual, visual, and mathematical models. Students will learn the concepts, symbolism, and fundamental tools of chemistry necessary to carry on a discourse in the language of chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the transformation of these bonds through chemical reactions. The fundamentals of organic chemistry are introduced throughout the course to emphasize the connection between chemistry and the other sciences. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
3
CHMG-142
General & Analytical Chemistry II (General Education – Scientific Principles Perspective)
The course covers the thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical reactions. The relationship between energy and entropy change as the driving force of chemical processes is emphasized through the study of aqueous solutions. Specifically, the course takes a quantitative look at: 1) solubility equilibrium, 2) acid-base equilibrium, 3) oxidation-reduction reactions and 4) chemical kinetics. (Prerequisites: CHMG-141 or CHMG-131 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
3
CHMG-145
 General & Analytical Chemistry I Lab (General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective)
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-141 lecture material. The course emphasizes laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. Topics include: gravimetric, volumetric, thermal, titration and spectrophotometric analyses, and the use of these techniques to analyze chemical reactions. (Corequisite: CHMG-141 or CHMG-131 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
1
CHMG-146
 General & Analytical Chemistry II Lab (General Education – Scientific Principles Perspective:)
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-142 lecture material. The course emphasizes the use of experiments as a tool for chemical analysis and the reporting of results in formal lab reports. Topics include the quantitative analysis of a multicomponent mixture using complexation and double endpoint titration, pH measurement, buffers and pH indicators, the kinetic study of a redox reaction, and the electrochemical analysis of oxidation reduction reactions. (Prerequisites: CHMG-131 or CHMG-141 or equivalent course. Corequisites: CHMG-142 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
1
EXSC-101
Seminar in Exercise Science
This course will provide first-year exercise science students with a strong foundation for a successful transition to university life. The course will introduce them to key personnel and resources essential for academic and personal achievement at RIT. Students will also develop a peer-based learning community with group projects centered on exercise science. (Prerequisites: This course is restricted to students in EXRSCI-BS.) Lecture 1 (Fall).
1
EXSC-150
Introduction to Exercise Science
In this initial course of the Exercise Science undergraduate curriculum, students will be introduced to a broad array of topics within the field. Through an introductory review of body systems and physiological concepts students will gain an understanding and appreciation for the processes of response and adaptation which enhance and improve both health and fitness of people who exercise regularly. Career options will be reviewed and explored giving students an informed exposure to potential areas of future employment. (Prerequisites: BIOL-121 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
MATH-161
Applied Calculus (General Education – Mathematical Perspective A)
This course is an introduction to the study of differential and integral calculus, including the study of functions and graphs, limits, continuity, the derivative, derivative formulas, applications of derivatives, the definite integral, the fundamental theorem of calculus, basic techniques of integral approximation, exponential and logarithmic functions, basic techniques of integration, an introduction to differential equations, and geometric series. Applications in business, management sciences, and life sciences will be included with an emphasis on manipulative skills. (Prerequisite: C- or better in MATH-101, MATH-111, MATH-131, NMTH-260, NMTH-272 or NMTH-275 or Math Placement Exam score greater than or equal to 45.) Lecture 4 (Fall, Spring).
4
MEDS-242
Cell Structure & Function
This course will cover the foundations of cellular biology and will focus on the integration of cell structure and function as a platform for advanced work in courses such as molecular biology, endocrinology, pharmacology, histology, anatomy & physiology, neuroscience, microbiology, pathology and related areas of study. (Prerequisite: BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or BIOL-123 or equivalent course and 1st or 2nd year student standing with a major in CHST.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
YOPS-10
RIT 365: RIT Connections
RIT 365 students participate in experiential learning opportunities designed to launch them into their career at RIT, support them in making multiple and varied connections across the university, and immerse them in processes of competency development. Students will plan for and reflect on their first-year experiences, receive feedback, and develop a personal plan for future action in order to develop foundational self-awareness and recognize broad-based professional competencies. (This class is restricted to incoming 1st year or global campus students.) Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring).
0
 
General Education – First-Year Writing (WI)
3
 
General Education – Elective
3
Second Year
EXSC-206
Fitness Prescription
This course is designed to provide instruction to prepare students for certification as a Personal Trainer. It examines the role exercise plays in both the enhancement of health and fitness as well as the improvement of athletic performance. Students will develop a basic understanding of how the human body functions while physically active. Case studies are utilized to assist in the development of practical skills. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (BIOL-123 and BIOL-125) or (BIOL-124 and BIOL-126) or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
EXSC-210
Human Motor Behavior
Human movement is complex and learning to move is an essential component of a lifetime of healthy activity. Exploring the nexus of learning and movement is the primary aim of this course. Using application-based activities students will develop the skills to recognize movement patterns, perform assessments, and correct inefficient movement. After successful completion students will be able to provide appropriate instruction leading to better movement mechanics, reduced risk of injury, and higher levels of athletic performance. (Prerequisites: MEDS-250 or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 3 (Spring).
3
MEDS-250
 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (General Education)
This course is an integrated approach to the structure and function of the nervous, endocrine, integumentary, muscular and skeletal systems. Laboratory exercises include histological examination, actual and simulated anatomical dissections, and physiology experiments with human subjects. (Pre-requisite: (BIOL-123 and BIOL-124 and BIOL-125 and BIOL-126) or (BIOL-123 and BIOL-124) or (BIOL-101 and BIOL-102) or (BIOL-121 and BIOL-122) or MEDG-102 or equivalent course or NUTR-BS or NUTRSC-BS students.) Lab 3, Lecture 3 (Fall).
4
MEDS-251
 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (General Education)
This course is an integrated approach to the structure and function of the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, immunological, respiratory, excretory, and reproductive systems with an emphasis on the maintenance of homeostasis. Laboratory exercises include histological examinations, anatomical dissections and physiological experiments using human subjects. (Pre-requisite: (BIOL-123 and BIOL-124 and BIOL-125 and BIOL-126) or (BIOL-123 and BIOL-124) or (BIOL-101 and BIOL-102) or (BIOL-121 and BIOL-122) or MEDG-102 or equivalent course or NUTR-BS or NUTRSC-BS students.) Lab 3, Lecture 3 (Spring).
4
PHYS-111
 College Physics I (General Education)
This is an introductory course in algebra-based physics focusing on mechanics and waves. Topics include kinematics, planar motion, Newton’s laws, gravitation; rotational kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum and impulse; conservation laws; simple harmonic motion; waves; data presentation/analysis and error propagation. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings. Lab 4, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
4
PHYS-112
 College Physics II (General Education)
This course is an introduction to algebra-based physics focusing on thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and elementary topics in modern physics. Topics include heat and temperature, laws of thermodynamics, fluids, electric and magnetic forces and fields, DC electrical circuits, electromagnetic induction, opyics, the concept of the photon, and the Bohr model of the atom. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings. (Prerequisites: PHYS-111 or 1017-211 or equivalent course.) Lab 4, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring).
4
STAT-145
Introduction to Statistics I (General Education – Mathematical Perspective B)
This course introduces statistical methods of extracting meaning from data, and basic inferential statistics. Topics covered include data and data integrity, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, numeric summary measures, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. The emphasis of the course is on statistical thinking rather than computation. Statistical software is used. (Prerequisites: Any 100 level MATH course, or NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275 or (NMTH-250 with a C- or better) or a Math Placement Exam score of at least 35.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
3
 
General Education – Artistic Perspective
3
 
General Education – Ethical Perspective
3
 
General Education – Global Perspective
3
Third Year
EXSC-410
Kinesiology
As a study of human movement this course will cover topics that begin with a review of the functional anatomy of the musculoskeletal system including both the upper and lower extremity as well as the spinal column and thorax. Factors of linear and rotary motion are reviewed along with postural analysis and movement elements associated with pushing, pulling and throwing objects. There is no separate Lab for this class and laboratory experiences will be incorporated into specifically designated lecture times. At the conclusion of this course students will have a functional capability to assess the intricacies of human movement. (Prerequisites: MEDS-250 or equivalent courses.) Lab 3, Lecture 3 (Fall).
4
EXSC-420
Biomechanics
The study of mechanics as it pertains to living organisms is the basis of biomechanics. Principles of physics are applied to human motion with movements being analyzed for their relationship to statics and dynamics. Kinematics and kinetics are explored within the context of sports performance and functional human locomotion. (Prerequisite: EXSC-410 and PHYS-112 or equivalent courses.) Lab 3, Lecture 3 (Spring).
4
EXSC-550
Exercise Physiology
Exercise Physiology is the scientific basis for the field of exercise science. This course provides students with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the body’s responses and adaptations to exercise. Neuromuscular physiology is reviewed along with energy systems and mechanisms of fatigue. The cardiorespiratory system is examined with a focus on control and regulation during activity and there is a look at the physiological components of exercise training. Environmental factors that impact sport activities as well as training techniques which optimize performance will be reviewed. The differences in performance and adaptation that exist between children, adolescents, and adults as well as between males and females will be compared and contrasted. Exercises influence on long term health and fitness will conclude the course. Laboratory experiences will allow students to integrate and apply the concepts of exercise physiology through investigative experiments. (Prerequisites: (MEDS-250 and MEDS-251) or (1026-350 and 1026-360) or equivalent courses.) Lab 3, Lecture 3 (Fall).
4
 
Professional Electives
9
 
General Education – Social Perspective
3
 
General Education – Immersion 1 
3
Fourth Year
EXSC-270
Group Exercise
Group exercise has progressed to include a wide variety of activities, equipment and environments. This course explores both the dynamics of group participation as well as techniques of instruction across a number of modalities including; hi/low impact, step training, kickboxing, sport conditioning, stationary indoor cycling, water exercise, yoga, and Pilates. Students will not only learn theory but will also design and teach classes to one another. Graduates of the class will be prepared to achieve certification in many of the modalities included in the course. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (1026-211 and 1026-231) or (1026-212 and 1026-232) or (1026-213 and 1026-233) or 1001-201 or 1001-251 or equivalent course(s).) Lab 1.5, Lecture 1.5 (Fall).
3
EXSC-320
Coaching Healthy Behavior
This course will teach students to encourage those with long standing lifestyle habits that contribute to their chronic illness to change is a very challenging proposition. It addresses this problem by incorporating psychological, sociological and counseling principles, along with coaching skills, into an intervention technique that emphasizes the positive and leads people to choose and adhere to a wellness lifestyle. Students will review case studies and meet with professionals in the field. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (BIOL-123 and BIOL-125) or (BIOL-124 and BIOL-126) or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
NUTR-560
Health and Nutrition Research Foundations (WI-PR)
This course offers students the opportunity to learn basic research principles and integrate with skills and knowledge from other courses to conduct research in an area of professional interest. The research project includes gathering primary data, assessing and summarizing the data, and sense-making or drawing conclusions from the data. Students will complete activities to gain skills in project management, secondary research development, and Human Subject Research (HSRO) submission and meet RIT’s Writing-Intensive-Program requirement. (Prerequisites: STAT-145 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
 
Open Electives
12
 
General Education – Immersion 2, 3
6
Total Semester Credit Hours
121

Please see General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.

(WI) Refers to a writing-intensive course within the major.

Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.

Electives

Course
EXSC-207
Exercise for Special Populations
This course is designed for those who are interested in the science of exercise and fitness for individuals with diagnosed disease states, or high performance requirements. The theoretical and diagnostic value of exercise testing will be reviewed. This information will then be used to create exercise prescriptions and understand the therapeutic benefit that exercise will have on specific conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and obesity. High performance individuals functioning in challenging environments such as, astronauts, high altitude climbers, and ultramarathoners will also be considered. (Prerequisites: EXSC-205 or EXSC-206 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
EXSC-280
Strength Training for Performance
Stronger athletes make better athletes no matter what the sport and this course teaches techniques of optimal training to enhance the muscular fitness of all manner of athletes. Physiological principles of strength development and basic musculoskeletal anatomy are reviewed and general program design is discussed. Utilizing case studies, students develop sport specific programs which will be presented to the class. Students will also produce strength training manuals outlining appropriate guidelines for improved performance. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (BIOL-123 and BIOL-125) or (BIOL-124 and BIOL-126) or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 3 (Fall).
EXSC-360
Worksite Health Promotion
A growing number of employers are recognizing the value of healthier, more physically fit employees and are providing health promotion programs through a variety of innovative means. This course will examine the theoretical basis for employee health programs as well review several case studies. Students will have the opportunity to visit and review local programs as well as design a model program to present to the class. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (1026-211 and 1026-231) or (1026-212 and 1026-232) or (1026-213 and 1026-233) or 1001-201 or 1001-251 or equivalent course(s).) Lecture 3 (Fall).
EXSC-370
Senior Adult Fitness
Our nation's growing population of senior citizens presents both challenges and opportunities to our healthcare system. This class explores the opportunities and the processes of enhancing the physical fitness and functional capacity of aging adults. Principles of assessment, prescription and adherence are modified to meet the needs of senior citizens and students will examine several case studies. Students get to apply what they’ve learned by designing and conducting exercise sessions with actual participants. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (1026-211 and 1026-231) or (1026-212 and 1026-232) or (1026-213 and 1026-233) or 1001-201 or 1001-251 or equivalent course(s).) Lecture 3 (Fall).
EXSC-380
Sports Psychology
“Keeping your head in the game” is one of the hallmarks of success for high performance athletes and this course explores the psychological aspects of achieving that capability. Through examining research based evidence of successful practices and techniques to produce, that winning edge, students will become versed in the process of coaching athletes to possess and function with athletic “mental toughness.” (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (1026-211 and 1026-231) or (1026-212 and 1026-232) or (1026-213 and 1026-233) or 1001-201 or 1001-251 or equivalent course(s).) Lecture 3 (Spring).
EXSC-430
Theory of Athletic Injuries
Even the very best athletes experience injury and being able to recognize and respond to those conditions is a crucial skill for those who will work with athletes. Students will learn the signs and symptoms of injury and the process of first response as well as how to support athletes through rehab. Successful students will learn how to incorporate injury reduction techniques into the training programs they develop for the athletes they serve. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (BIOL-123 and BIOL-125) or (BIOL-124 and BIOL-126) or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 3 (Fall).
EXSC-440
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Following a heart attack many people feel as though their health is lost, however those who participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program experience a much higher rate of recovery. Students will explore the physiological principles of rehabilitation through a thorough review of atherosclerosis and the process of adaptation by the cardiovascular system to proper exercise. Through the class, students will visit local cardiac rehab programs and design exercise prescriptions and educational programs for case studies. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (1026-211 and 1026-231) or (1026-212 and 1026-232) or (1026-213 and 1026-233) or 1001-201 or 1001-251 or equivalent course(s).) Lecture 3 (Spring).
EXSC-480
Training High Performance Athletes
Aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility, speed, power, agility, nutrition, and rest are all crucial to the success of athletes and for trainers the need to appropriately coordinate all these factors is a significant challenge. This course explores the interrelationship of the multifactorial principles of athletic performance. Using case studies, modeling, flow sheets and scheduling plans students develop techniques that will lead athletes to success in their training routines. (Prerequisites: (MEDG-101 and MEDG-103) or (MEDG-102 and MEDG-104) or BIOL-101 or BIOL-121 or (BIOL-123 and BIOL-125) or (BIOL-124 and BIOL-126) or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 3 (Spring).
EXSC-587
Experiential Topics in Exercise Science
Experiential Topics in Exercise Science engages learners to explore topics in exercise science that are either novel findings, of current concern, hold media interest, or require a unique presentation platform. Course content and delivery methods will vary for each course offering, but will include development of professional presentation skills, interpretation of evidence-based resources, and translation to future health and fitness practice. An experiential component will enable hands-on learning to assist with topic mastery and application. (Prerequisites: MEDS-251 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 7 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
EXSC-589
Topics in Exercise Science
Topics in Exercise Science engages learners to explore topics in exercise science that are either novel findings, of current concern, hold media interest, or require a unique presentation platform. Course content and delivery methods will vary for each course offering, but will include development of professional presentation skills, interpretation of evidence-based resources, and translation to future health and fitness practice. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).
EXSC-590
Exercise Science Research (WI-PR)
This course is designed to give students an immersive and hands-on research experience related to exercise science and physical activity. Students will use knowledge from prerequisite coursework to hypothesize, design, and conduct a research investigation that focuses on some facet of exercise physiology and science. Areas of skill development include hypothesis generation, logistical and ethical considerations of research methods, institutional review board submission, data management, analysis and interpretation. This class will benefit those who desire an immersive hands-on exposure to conducting exercise science based research. Students in this course will be required to present at an undergraduate research venue, such as an undergraduate research symposium. (Prerequisites: EXSC-550 and NUTR-560 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring).

Admissions and Financial Aid

First-Year Admission

A strong performance in a college preparatory program is expected. This includes:

  • 4 years of English
  • 3 years of social studies and/or history
  • 3 years of math is required and must include algebra, geometry, and algebra 2/trigonometry. Pre-calculus is preferred.
  • 2-3 years of science. Biology and chemistry are required.

Transfer Admission

Transfer course recommendations without associate degree
Courses in liberal arts, sciences, and math

Appropriate associate degree programs for transfer
AS degree in liberal arts with science option

Please note: The exercise science program has articulation agreements with the following institutions:

Learn more about transferring credits and additional information about transferring to RIT by visiting the Transfer Admissions website.

Learn How to Apply

Financial Aid and Scholarships

100% of all incoming first-year and transfer students receive aid.

RIT’s personalized and comprehensive financial aid program includes scholarships, grants, loans, and campus employment programs. When all these are put to work, your actual cost may be much lower than the published estimated cost of attendance.
Learn more about financial aid and scholarships

Facilities

  • 3 students using a stethoscope on a dummy patient and a monitor with data readouts
    Simulation Lab

    The Simulation Laboratory consists of three parts a patient room that contains a simulation mannequin, a control room where operation of the mannequin occurs, and a debriefing room where faculty interact with students after simulated medical scenarios end.

  • Student engaged in virtual reality boxing.
    Human Movement Lab

    The Human Movement Lab houses state-of-the-art equipment utilized by exercise science students to gain hands-on experience conducting fitness assessments and testing.

  • Three students and a faculty member working on laptops around a table.
    NEEDs Lab

    The mission of the Nutrition Education, Engineering, and Designs (NEEDs) lab is to engineer and design research and evaluation services that foster promotion and delivery of evidence-based health and nutrition education.

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