Exercise Science

Video of Exercise Science at Western Michigan University

 

This program is offered in-person.

The Department of Human Performance and Health Education's Bachelor of Science in exercise science program is a scientifically-based curriculum which includes coursework in the basic sciences, the physiology and biomechanics of exercise, fitness assessment and exercise testing, exercise prescription and training, behavior modification and the clinical aspects of exercise. We offer three exercise science concentrations: human performance, clinical/pre-professional and strength and conditioning. All of the exercise science programs integrate classroom study with hands-on practical experiences in order to provide the student with a comprehensive level of academic preparation. The human performance and clinical/pre-professional concentrations also offer Accelerated Graduate Degree Program (AGDP) options.

Why exercise science at Western Michigan University?

 
Hands-on learning: Many of the exercise science courses provide hands-on experiences through class labs. Within these courses, students learn a variety of exercise tests, assessments, skills which prepare students for a career in exercise science or for further graduate studies related to human performance and health care.

State-of-the-art facilities: The exercise physiology laboratory features an environmental chamber, metabolic carts, body composition analyzers, cycle ergometers, and an underwater weighing tank. The biomechanics laboratory hosts a kinematic and kinetic motion analysis system and force plates.

Find fast success: 100% of 2021-2022 WMU exercise science graduates who reported were employed or continuing education within three months of graduation.

Concentration options

  • Clinical/pre-professional

    This concentration is ideal for students looking to go into healthcare fields such as medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant, occupational therapy, athletic training, chiropractic, and cardiac rehabilitation.

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  • Human performance

    This concentration is ideal for students who wish to continue their education in exercise science areas such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, and motor control as well as conduct related research.

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  • Strength and conditioning

    This concentration is ideal for students interested in becoming fitness professionals such as strength and conditioning specialists and personal trainers.

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Additional information

Hear it from us

"WMU genuinely cares and is constantly improving programs and creating more opportunities for experience for students."

- Ari, current exercise science student (Meet Ari)

  • Study abroad

    Students are encouraged to pursue additional educational opportunities through one of many study abroad options offered by the HPHE department or WMU in general.

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  • WMU signature

    All WMU students have the option to stand out with an integrative learning project in one of several pathways including health and wellness, entrepreneurship, leadership and more!

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  • Visit campus

    There's simply no substitute for seeing WMU for yourself and experiencing a little slice of what makes WMU so unique and beloved. In-person and virtual tours are available.

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Faculty

  • Dr. Nicholas Hanson

    Associate Professor, Program Coordinator

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  • Dr. Sangwoo Lee

    Associate Professor

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  • Dr. Michael Miller

    Professor

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  • Julie Raedy

    Faculty Specialist I

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