Exercise Science

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health


What is Exercise Science?

Exercise Science is designed for students who are interested in the scientific aspects of human movement and how movement affects health and performance. The program prepares students for careers or further study in fitness, health promotion, research, and a variety of allied health professions, including physical therapy and medicine. Students in this program should have a strong interest in chemistry, physics, physiology, and anatomy since these subjects are the foundation for the scientific analysis of physical activity. Students should also enjoy doing laboratory work.


What are the features of Miami's program?

Personal attention: Students have opportunities to do one-on-one research with our internationally recognized faculty, as well as independent projects and internships.

State-of-the-art facilities: The Department of Kinesiology and Health (KNH) houses specially equipped laboratories that support the Exercise Science major. The exercise physiology laboratory includes treadmills, bicycle ergometers, carbon dioxide and oxygen analyzers, electrocardiographs, and blood analysis hardware. The motor behavior laboratory is equipped with a force platform, electromyography equipment, digital computer-aided video analysis equipment, and an isokinetic dynamometer. This and other state-of-the-art equipment is used in exercise science courses, and students gain skills in using the equipment and interpreting the data it provides.


Are there special admission requirements?

To enter this major, students must enroll in the Department of Kinesiology and Health (KNH) to take KNH courses as pre-majors. Once enrolled as an Exercise Science pre-major, students are eligible to apply to the major after completing at least 24 credit hours (including three pre-major courses) and achieving a g.p.a. of 2.5 or higher in the pre-major courses and any other Miami Plan Foundation courses.


What courses would I take?

In addition to Miami Plan Foundation coursework, required courses include chemistry, biomechanics, exercise and health, functional anatomy, psychology, physics, and motor learning and performance, among others. The Exercise Science major allows you to individualize your degree program. In consultation with your adviser, you can elect up to 25 percent of the 128 credit hours required for graduation.


What can I do with this major?

Exercise science prepares students for careers or further study in fitness, health promotion, fitness assessment and exercise prescription, research, and the clinical aspects of the allied health field, such as cardiac rehabilitation. Exercise Science is also an appropriate major for students interested in careers in medicine, physical or occupational therapy, dentistry, physician assistance, chiropractic, and other allied health professions.


Who can I contact for more information?

For general information about Miami University, please contact:

Office of Admission
301 S. Campus Ave.
Miami University
Oxford, OH 45056-3434
513-529-2531 (v/t)
www.muohio.edu/requestinfo

For specific information on the Exercise Science major, please contact:

Department of Kinesiology and Health
106 Phillips Hall
Miami University
Oxford, OH 45056
513-529-2700
www.muohio.edu/knh