Department of Exercise Physiology

Faculty: Dressler (Exercise Clinic Coordinator); Kobes (Fieldwork Coordinator); Nustad (EXS Program Director/Department Chair), Saghiv (MS-CEP Director/ Research Coordinator)

The Exercise Science Program at the University of Mary is a four-year Bachelor of Science degree. The curriculum was endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine from 2003-2010, and has currently achieved accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP; 25400 US Highway 19 N, Suite 158, Clearwater, FL 33763. Telephone: 727-210-2350).

Graduation from an accredited program is a demonstration of high quality knowledge, skills, and abilities. The Exercise Science Program at the University of Mary has also earned membership in the National Strength and Conditioning Association - Education Recognition Program. This, too, is a distinction recognizing quality of the academic program.

The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in the sciences and promotes community involvement. The educational philosophy of the Exercise Science Program supports learning through experiences, interactions, and application of knowledge and skills. The Exercise Science Program also focuses on clinical competencies and aims to prepare graduates for higher education opportunities, entry level clinical roles in cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, adult fitness, and for personal training and leadership roles in the fitness industry. The Department of Exercise Physiology extends the Benedictine values of living a healthy and holistic lifestyle.

Mission

The Department of Exercise Physiology exists to provide the people of this region with leaders in the areas of fitness and exercise testing, exercise prescription, exercise program development, and fitness instruction, meeting the fitness and exercise needs for people who are apparently healthy, at higher risk, or have known disease. The mission of the Department of Exercise Physiology is driven by the Rule of St. Benedict and aims to provide the region with services that promote the exercise component of a healthy, holistic lifestyle.

Outcome and Goals

Based on the missions of the University of Mary, the School of Health Sciences, and the Department of Exercise Physiology, graduates of the degree program in exercise science will have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to:

Assess and provide for the fitness and exercise needs of people who are apparently healthy, at higher risk, or with known disease
Perform as entry-level technicians in clinical cardiac rehabilitation and pulmonary rehabilitation programs
Serve in leadership roles in the health fitness industry as personal trainers, coordinators and directors of fitness programs
Promote the component of exercise and fitness for a healthy lifestyle in a safe, legal, and ethical manner
Interpret, analyze, be resourceful, and think critically in a world of constant change and discovery
Demonstrate a commitment to professionalism including lifelong learning, community service, and the Benedictine values.
1. Pursue higher education degrees in related areas including exercise physiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, and other health occupation programs.
2. Be eligible for application for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C) Certification

Programs

Undergraduate Major

Exercise Science Major

Undergraduate Minor

Wellness Minor

Graduate Major

Clinical Exercise Physiology, M.S.