B.A. in Exercise Science: Curriculum

In this course, students will start their mentoring journey, learn the basics of being a successful KHS student, explore professional qualities and skills for success in the field, understand the sub-disciplines of kinesiology, and create a personal development plan.

Psychology of sport and its applications for performance enhancement are examined. Special attention is given to theory and techniques for developing and refining psychological skills to enhance performance and personal growth. Content examines personality traits, anxiety, aggression vs. assertion, motivation, and other individual and group variables. (Suggested prerequisite: PSY 101)

This course employs a regional approach to human anatomy and emphasizes the role of the musculoskeletal system in producing movement. Elements of the nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems are also considered. Kinematic features of common athletic movements are explored.

The physiological basis for human performance and the effects of physical activity on the body’s functions are examined in theory and application. Content areas include cardiovascular and respiratory response to exercise, metabolism, body composition, temperature regulation, principles of training and conditioning and the resulting adaptations of the human body, special populations, and exercise prescription.

This course examines the physics of human movement. Content areas include the structural mechanics of bone construction, muscle contraction, ligament, and tendon plasticity and elasticity. Sport implement mechanics and the mechanics of environmental conditions (e.g. friction, air, and water resistance) are also explored. Sport performance issues will also be analyzed for mechanical efficiency.

The study of the interaction of humans with food. Nutritional concepts, current consumer issues in nutrition, nutritional needs through the life cycle, and international nutritional concerns and issues are studied.

This course will include a comprehensive analysis of issues related to sports business. Topics will include finance, accounting, and budgeting as it relates to the world of sports business.

This course examines the growth and development patterns of the child from infant, adolescence, adulthood, and through late adulthood. The purpose of the course is to enhance student insight into the fundamental role that the motor system plays in the human condition. There are four broad topic areas: 1) nature and mechanisms of the expression and control of motor behavior; 2) concepts, principles and measurement of motor learning; 3) factors that influence skill and proficiency in motor performance; and 4) practical approaches to studying and learning motor skills. Content will follow motor control through motor development across the life span with special emphasis on early childhood development and late adulthood.

This course will focus on exercise testing and prescription with regard to stress testing and fitness evaluations. Indications and applications for clinical exercise testing and contraindications to exercise testing will be addressed, as well as special populations.

This course integrates important principles and theories in exercise physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, psychology, and measurement, and then applies them to physical fitness testing and individualized exercise program design for team and individual athletes. Students will learn how to select physical fitness tests, conduct physiological assessments, and design individualized exercise programs and prescriptions. (Prerequisite: KHS 474 Exercise Physiology)

This course provides students with practical experience in applying their knowledge and skills, and the opportunity to reflect on the relevance and application of their studies to professional practice.