The Exercise Science major encompasses healthcare and fitness disciplines and is designed to provide students with expertise in how the body responds to exercise, the importance of physical activity for health, and the implementation of evidence-based exercise prescriptions. The curriculum allows students to learn and apply their skills in areas such as human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and behavioral health to diverse populations across the lifespan. Students who graduate with an exercise science degree leave with the knowledge and skills necessary for a variety of careers and advanced degrees. Our strategically designed curriculum empowers students to:
I. Evaluate the importance of exercise for prevention of chronic disease and promotion of health.
Students gain expertise in human health from an integrative perspective that includes physical activity, nutrition, sleep, substance use and stress. They understand the physiological basis of major chronic diseases facing Americans today (e.g., Heart Disease, Diabetes, Neurodegenerative diseases), the preventative role of physical activity and exercise programs, and the science of behavior change. They realize the importance of existing health disparities, social determinants of health, systems change, and the necessity of culturally sensitive and effective exercise prescriptions across the lifespan.
II. Conduct exercise assessments and implement effective exercise prescriptions.
Students learn to use anatomical, physiological, neuromotor, and biomechanical principles to create and apply fitness testing protocols, corrective health strategies, targeted interventions, and evidence-based treatments. They will interpret behavioral, physiological and biomechanical data to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise programs. These skills will be tailored to diverse populations including developing children, emerging and aging adults, as well as individuals with disabilities or chronic disease. Students will also gain proficiency in contraindications to exercise in special populations. This comprehensive approach implements best practices in exercise science to balance feasibility, adherence, efficacy, and safety.
III. Cultivate strong communication skills and a high level of professionalism.
Students acquire interpersonal skills essential for effective communication through oral presentations, professional writing, and client interactions. They integrate accountability, altruism, collaboration and duty through experiential learning. They develop analytical skills to inform decision-making through the use, interpretation, and visualization of scientific data and apply evidence-based research into clinical care. Threaded throughout all communication development is the foundation of compassion, caring, empowerment, and client-centered approaches. Students gain cultural sensitivity and competency to ensure inclusion and social responsibility when communicating health-related messages to clients and patients.
IV. Develop effective leadership skills to manage healthcare and performance operations.
Students acquire foundational knowledge in ethics, law, strategic planning, budgeting, reporting, and human relations to effectively manage operations in allied health professions as well as athletic performance. Students practice motivation techniques, effective and adaptable decision-making, conflict resolution and time management through immersion in the field via courses, practicums and internships. Students learn to ethically promote and implement exercise programs and services for the betterment of the community. Students graduate with the expectation of advancing research-based best practices in exercise science, maintaining a high level of integrity, and collaborating effectively with professional organizations, colleagues, clients, patients, and the public.
V. Advance exercise science through impactful community engagement.
Students connect the knowledge and skills learned in the exercise science curriculum to actively involve local communities in health-related initiatives to promote physical activity, improve health outcomes, and educate the community about the benefits of exercise and an active lifestyle. This is accomplished through meaningful contributions to outreach programs, research laboratories, partnerships with community stakeholders, and fitness initiatives designed to create long-lasting positive changes within the University and greater New Brunswick community. These inclusive opportunities afford students exposure to diverse populations including developing children, emerging and aging adults, and individuals with disabilities or chronic diseases.
Upon completion of the exercise science programs, students will be qualified for graduate programs in medicine, exercise physiology, physical and occupational therapy, cardiac rehabilitation, corporate fitness, athletic training, physician assistant, as well as most other health-related professions.
The Sport Management major is designed to inspire students to make a meaningful impact in the sport industry. The curriculum allows students to learn and apply their skills in areas such as sustainability and diversity, coaching and athlete development, sport marketing & finance, sport analytics, administration, facilities and event management, and legal issues. Students who graduate majoring in sport management leave with the knowledge and skills to become successful professionals in the ever-evolving world of sport. Our strategically designed curriculum empowers students to:
I. Analyze legal issues in sport.
Students start with a foundational understanding of risk assessments and sports governance structures, essential for navigating the complexities of sport law. They analyze sport law and ethical standards to manage rights and draft sport contracts, including sponsorship agreements. Students develop negotiation plans and strategies for arbitration and dispute resolution. This enables them to handle detailed contract terms and navigate complex negotiations.
II. Organize, administer and manage sport organizations and events.
Students develop expertise in organizing and managing sports organizations and events, starting with the creation of strategic visions that align sport programs with organizational goals. They evaluate organizational performance and design management strategies for sport programs to coordinate and evaluate event logistics. Furthermore, they build skills in recruiting and professional development. This comprehensive approach implements best practices in organizational management to boost revenue and operational efficiency.
III. Conduct sport business analyses and communication.
Students acquire skills in effective communication, professional writing, and presentations. This emphasizes the use and visualization of data to enhance sport business communications. They develop analytical skills to inform decision-making. Proficiency in software and the application of theoretical concepts and frameworks further empower students to transform raw data into actionable sports business strategies.
IV. Implement effective marketing, sales and finance strategies.
Students develop and implement marketing and sales strategies based on consumer behavior and modern marketing concepts. Students learn to use financial statement analysis and budgeting methods to manage operations effectively. Their training covers comprehensive financial planning and the nuances of management and funding differences between public and private sports entities, preparing them for diverse fiscal environments in the sports industry.
V. Evaluate human behavior in the field of sport.
Students gain insights into the behavior of sport personnel across different levels and demographics by studying psychological and sociological aspects of sport. This prepares students to successfully collaborate with and inspire others in performance contexts. They learn to conduct ethical decision-making, resolve ethical dilemmas, and implement effective leadership techniques. Students also develop strategies to create accessible sport organizations and programs that ensure high quality sport experiences for all.
VI. Contextualize the historical and cultural significance of sports.
Students analyze the impact of sports on individuals, communities, and societies to understand their historical and cultural significance. This knowledge informs their decisions in event and product design, organizational management, and broader business practices. They also examine contemporary issues in sports, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about ongoing and emerging developments.
