Chairperson: Susana Juniu

The Department of Exercise Science and Physical Education (ESPE) provides preparation in the education theory, technology, research, adult fitness, athletic training, physical education, and sports management. Students are educated for careers in public and corporate education, teaching health and physical education and health from grades P-12, in the sports industries, and in athletic training programs. All programs provide a combination of broad studies in the liberal arts with in-depth education in a professional field. All programs emphasize clinical and field experience. The department is organized into three (3) academic programs: Adult Fitness, Athletic Training, and Physical Education and Health Teaching Certification.

ESPE offers many opportunities for both students majoring in these diverse areas of study as well as students generally interested in our unique professions. Although the career goals of majors are varied, there are certain common threads. Students tend to be people-oriented, concerned with lifelong activity, and interested in general fitness, wellness and business concepts. These characteristics apply to students preparing for traditional careers as teachers, clinicians, administrators and managers.

Athletic Training majors prepare for careers as athletic trainers. Athletic Trainers are allied health professionals who provide health care for physically active individuals. The Athletic Training Education Program (ATEP) and Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training prepare students for the national Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Certification examination. Graduates who pass the certification examination can be employed as Athletic Trainers at high schools, colleges and universities, sports medicine clinics and professional athletic settings. The ATEP is a candidate for accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Physical Education majors are prepared for careers in teaching, (P-12) Physical Education and Health Certification and professional/entrepreneurial positions in the fitness field. The Adult Fitness concentration prepares students for a corporate, clinical (cardiac rehabilitation), commercial or community setting. The Association for Worksite Health Promotion recognized the Adult Fitness Program with an outstanding Professional Preparation Award.
Successful completion of each degree program results in the granting of the Bachelor of Science degree.