About
Exercise science prepares students to work in exercise-related areas by examining the effects of exercise and physical activity on the human body.
The Exercise Science (BS) - Strength and Conditioning degree prepares students to work in applied and academic settings by focusing on the science behind exercise and sport performance. This program is for students interested in attending graduate school to study exercise science, pursuing a career as a strength and conditioning coach, or working in fitness/wellness programs as a personal trainer.
Classes are designed to teach students about theoretical concepts and practical applications of strength and conditioning program design. A required field experience further prepares students for graduate study or immediate entry into the work force. This academic course of study is designed to prepare students for successful completion of the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist credential.
After Graduation
Employment: Students graduating with this degree will be prepared for careers as a conditioning coach working with athletes at the high school, college or professional level. Another career opportunity includes personal training and working in fitness or wellness programs with the general public.
Former students have worked with Dunn Pediatric Therapy, Watauga Medical Center, Victory Junction Camp, Velocity Sports Performance and other employers.
Graduate School: Students can pursue graduate programs in exercise science to prepare them for strength and conditioning research or coaching, or working in an academic setting.
People
Courses
Students take a 32-hour Exercise Science core, plus 30 hours in the Strength and Conditioning concentration. The concentration’s core courses include:
- Strength and Conditioning Theory and Practice
- Intro to Athletic Training
- Practicum: Strength and Conditioning
- Survey of Sports Performance
- Psychological Aspects of Sport
Related Programs
Minors
A minor is not required, but some students choose to minor in Nutrition.
Engagement Outside the Classroom
Exercise Science Club - designed for students majoring or minoring in exercise science or those interested in the field of exercise science. The club is a great way for students to meet each other and learn important information about the major and what you can do with it after graduation.
Global Learning
Appalachian is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.
Admission Requirements
There are no admission requirements beyond admission to Appalachian State University.
Why Appalachian?
- The Department of Health and Exercise Science is primarily housed in the Holmes Convocation Center, which has 13 advanced laboratories, 10 classrooms and extensive public service areas.
- Students gain valuable skills through applied laboratory experiences in state-of-the-art facilities. The Human Performance Laboratory Complex houses the Human Performance, Hydrostatic and Fisher Hamilton/Nycom Biochemistry laboratories. There are also Neuromuscular and Biomechanics laboratories in the department.
- A required field experience further enhances academic preparation and practical experience.
- Students have opportunities to conduct research alongside their professors and contribute to finding innovative solutions for regional and national problems. They also present their findings at professional conferences.
- Faculty in the Department of Health and Exercise Science are nationally and internationally known researchers who are also expert teachers.
Number of Students
60
Method of Delivery
On campus only
Careers
- Strength and Conditioning coach, high school
- Strength and Conditioning coach, college or university
- Strength and Conditioning coach, professional sports
- Personal trainer
- Corporate fitness
View more career possibilities
Contacts
Beaver College of Health Sciences
Department of Health and Exercise Science
Dr. N. Travis Triplett
triplttnt@appstate.edu
828-262-7148