Department: Exercise Sciences and Recreation

The Department of Exercise Sciences and Recreation offers several options that will open many career doors as well as creating numerous opportunities for advancement. We offer a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation.

B.S. in Exercise Science:

The B.S. in Exercise Science offers two options: 1) Exercise and Movement Science, and; 2) Pre-Physical Therapy, and 3) Pre-Occupational Therapy.

Career Opportunities: The Pre-Physical Therapy option is for students who desire to pursue a career in physical therapy. The courses offered fully prepare students for entry into Doctor of Physical Therapy programs that are required for practice in this field. The Pre-Occupational Therapy For students who desire to pursue a career in occupational therapy. The courses offered fully prepare students for entry into M.S. of Occupational Therapy Programs. Alternatively, the Exercise and Movement Science option is for students who wish to pursue other careers in the fitness field including personal training, exercise physiology, strength and conditioning and other related disciplines.

B.S. in Recreation Education:

The B.S. in Recreation Education offers two options: 1) Recreation Management, and: 2) Exercise and Sport.

Career Opportunities: The Recreation Management option is for students who desire to pursue a career in the leisure and recreation field. The courses offered fully prepare students for entry positions in municipal state parks and recreation agencies, non-profit organizations, community recreation centers, camps, and sports associations. The Exercise and Sport option is for students who desire to pursue a career in the sports and fitness field. The courses offered fully prepare students for entry positions in sports and fitness programs as programmers, fitness trainers, group exercise leaders, and youth sports.

B.S. in Therapeutic Recreation:

The B.S. in Therapeutic Recreation is for students who desire to pursue a career in the therapeutic recreation field.

Career Opportunities: The degree requirement meets the eligibility requirements for taking the national certification exam for Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), upon graduation. The courses offered fully prepare students for entry positions in clinical settings such as rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, psychiatric facilities, and other agencies that address a wide array of health concerns.

Preparation for Graduate Study: The department offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Human Performance and Fitness and a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Recreation Education. Students planning graduate study in Exercise Science and Recreation Education should contact the Graduate Program Directors.

B.S. to M.S. Dual Credit Option:

The B.S. in Exercise Science and the B.S. in Recreation Education programs offer a dual credit option where undergraduate students may take up to 12 credit hours in graduate coursework during their final academic year if they intend to enroll in the graduate programs. See specific details in either undergraduate program descriptions or ask your faculty adviser for further information.