The Exercise Physiology major at Concordia University prepares students to understand how the body responds and adapts to the stress of physical exertion. A thorough knowledge of exercise physiology enables one to understand the physiological mechanisms responsible for the acute and chronic response to physical activity. This knowledge can be used by students as they enter the workforce in health and fitness industries, strength and conditioning programs, clinical exercise physiology settings or entry into professional/graduate studies such as Concordia's Doctorate of Physical Therapy program, Master of Occupational Therapy program, or master’s/doctoral work in the exercise sciences.

Coursework in the Exercise Physiology major includes a strong foundation in the sciences plus significant hands-on laboratory work assessing cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and pulmonary responses in Concordia's Exercise Physiology Laboratory.  Emphases in this major include both clinical exercise physiology and strength and conditioning. Students will be prepared to sit for nationally recognized certification exams offered through the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Opportunities are available to participate in developing and conducting research projects in the exercise physiology laboratory and/or to pursue internships to gain additional practical experiences in their preferred field.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• Demonstrate knowledge of applied anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology in healthy populations.
• Demonstrate knowledge of applied anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology in clinical populations.
• Demonstrate the ability to advocate for healthy lifestyles in diverse populations (eg. culture, literacy, age, gender, disability) using physical activity and exercise.
• Demonstrate Exercise Physiology skills and abilities by providing clear and accurate written assessments of human performance
• Demonstrate Exercise Physiology skills and abilities by providing clear and accurate verbal assessments of human performance.
• Apply current movement science research to guide evidence based practice.
• Identify and utilize appropriate means of health screening and disease classification in exercise programming.
• Student will evaluate the integration of Christian faith and ethical practice.

Curriculum

 Major Requirements

Course options and schedule are subject to change.