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Exercise Science



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Major Related
Resources

Department of
Kinesiology

HPER 112
Phone: 812-855-6076

Career Related
Resources

Kinesiology
Career Center

HPER 112
Phone: 812-855-6076

IUB Libraries Career Resources
Sports Careers
10th Street & Jordan Avenue
Phone: 812-855-0100



Description of Major

The exercise science program at Indiana University is a science-based undergraduate curriculum designed to provide a background in the exercise sciences for those students who wish to further their education at the graduate level. Special emphasis is placed upon the primary disciplines of anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, sport psychology, and motor learning. Other required curricular areas include chemistry, math, physics, physiology, and psychology.

Skills & Knowledge Developed in this Field of Study

This major encourages a broad background knowledge in the sciences which serve as prerequisites for entry into science-based graduate programs. Students may select courses that will help them prepare for graduate programs in physical therapy and other medically related professions.

Minors and Second Majors that Expand Career Options with this Major

Biology, chemistry, coaching, nutrition science, and psychology.

Career Options

Careers Specific to the Bachelor's Degree

Students wishing to enter the job market with a B.S. degree in exercise science may be prepared for entry level positions with corporate and community fitness programs, health clubs, YMCAs and similar fitness related organizations.

Other Career Possibilities with a Bachelor's Degree

Positions in sales or marketing of medical, fitness, and sports related equipment may be appropriate for students with this degree.

Careers that Normally Require a Graduate Degree

Career areas that require a graduate degree include adapted physical education, clinical exercise physiology, preventive rehabilitative exercise, biomechanics, motor control and development, sports psychology, medicine, dentistry, podiatry, optometry, chiropractic, physical therapy and occupational therapy.

Employment Opportunities

Job Outlook

The exercise science degree provides excellent preparation for professional and graduate schools. Most positions sought by students in the scientific and medical professions will require some type of advanced degree. Many graduates go on to chiropractic, physical therapy, physician assistant, podiatric medicine, and osteopathic medicine programs in addition to medical, dental, optometry, pharmacy schools. Graduates also seek advanced degrees in Kinesiology.

Salary Information

Starting salaries at the bachelor's or master's degree range from $20,000 to $50,000. Starting salaries with a Ph.D. range from $35,000 to $70,000.

Potential Career Growth

Salary may advance to $56,000- $70,000+

Placement Statistics for IU Graduates with this Major

Not available.

High School Preparation

In addition to meeting the general admission requirements for the university, students considering a major in exercise science should take additional courses in chemistry and physics, as well as a fourth year of math (calculus or probability and statistics).

Special Opportunities

IU’s School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER) is internationally recognized as a leader in human development, public health, nutrition, sport management, physical education teacher preparation, exercise science, athletic training, therapeutic recreation, and outdoor resource management. HPER’s three accredited departments all offer innovative and highly respected programs of study. Few institutions can compete with HPER’s educational, athletic, and professional service facilities. The Student Recreational Sports Center offers Olympic_size swimming and diving pools, an elevated indoor jogging track, three multipurpose gyms, and racquetball and squash courts. The extensive strength and conditioning rooms are staffed with consultants who orient students to the equipment and provide fitness tips and guidance. Other facilities include research labora_tories, a library, seminar rooms, gardens, outdoor centers, sports fields, an 18_hole golf course, a driving range, and tennis courts. Students in exercise science study with faculty who not only are outstanding teachers, but also participate in numerous research projects. The Department of Kinesiology supports research in exercise physiology, exercise biochemistry, clinical exercise physiology, motor learning, motor control, and sport biomechanics. Motor development and the effects of physical activity on special populations have also been the subjects of intensive study. Funding for these studies have come from a number of sources, including the United States Department of Education, Office of Special Education, the United States Olympic Committee, the Athletic Congress, Lilly Endowment, and the Amateur Athletic Union.

Noted Alumni

Not Available
Majors and Careers Series Spring 2000

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URL: http://www.indiana.edu/~udiv/majors
Comments: explore@indiana.edu
Created by Brian Smith, Dawn Bourbina, Ben Tesnar, and Stephen Grogg
Copyright 2000, The Trustees of Indiana University