Health & Exercise Science

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

A Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Exercise Science from Jefferson College of Health Sciences prepares graduates for careers in college, clinical, corporate, and commercial settings, including personal fitness consulting/training, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, hospital and/or corporate wellness, community health and obesity prevention, and industrial rehabilitation/worksite fitness. Students enrolled in the program will have the flexibility to develop knowledge and skills to pursue post-baccalaureate education in medicine, therapy, exercise science, and other graduate and/or professional allied health programs. Health and Exercise Science program graduates will be eligible to pursue certifications with the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association and other organizations requiring a Bachelor’s degree and clinical experience.

PROGRAM MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Health and Exercise Science program is to provide an academic environment that will enable students to develop knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of health and exercise science. Through a focused curriculum, faculty-student interactions, and clinical opportunities, graduates of the Health and Exercise Science program will cultivate the competencies and proficiencies required for entry-level professional practice or continuation to graduate-level education.

PROGRAM GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

By the conclusion of the program of study, successful graduates will:

1. Apply biophysical and behavioral theory and research from health and exercise science to critically analyze health, exercise, and fitness processes, behaviors, and outcomes.
2. Demonstrate integration of health and exercise science scholarship into clinical practice through:
• Assessment, design, and implementation of individual and group exercise programs and fitness activities for persons of all ages who are apparently healthy and those with controlled disease.
• Application of skills in evaluating health behaviors and risk factors, conducting fitness assessments, writing appropriate exercise prescriptions, and motivating individuals to modify negative health habits and maintain positive lifestyle behaviors for health promotion.
3. Demonstrate competence, professionalism, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to life-long learning as a leader of health and fitness programs in college, clinical, corporate and/or commercial settings in which clients participate in health promoting and fitness-related activities.
4. Develop knowledge, skills, and abilities requisite for post-baccalaureate education in health and exercise science, other medical/allied health fields, and/or professional certification/career placement.
5. Complete minimally 400 hours of practical experience in supervised clinical exercise program settings.