Exercise & Sports Science Undergraduate Programs

Exercise & Sports Science (ESS) undergraduate programs include a major in Health & Fitness Management (HFM) and a major in Exercise & Sports Science. ESS majors can select from three concentrations (Pre-Rehabilitation Sciences, Clinical Exercise Science, All Level Physical Education) or no concentration. Students are required to have a 2.0 overall GPA to take the HCP or the HFM internship. A 2.75 Texas State GPA is required for enrollment in PRS internship and a 2.75 overall GPA is required for placement in the ALPE student teaching.

Health & Fitness Management: Students are prepared to direct fitness, wellness or health awareness programs in commercial, corporate, and institutional settings. This could also be an ideal option for students that have a goal of owning or managing their own exercise facility, fitness brand, or organization.

Exercise & Sports Science: This major involves the study of physical activity and its impact on health and quality of life.  The interdisciplinary nature of ESS applies to a variety of career paths, such as fitness training and leadership, coaching and teaching, strength and conditioning, and preparation for related graduate and professional programs.  The “no concentration ” option provides a broad foundation in ESS, allowing students to explore and refine their career interests throughout the program. With flexible course options and optional internships, students have the opportunity to gain real-world experience and tailor their education to match their professional goals.

The following concentrations allow students to narrow their focus:

Pre-Rehabilitation Sciences: The main focus of this pre-professional concentration is to prepare students for entrance to a graduate-level allied health program such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Chiropractic, Physician Assistant, Orthotic/Prosthetic, or Athletic Training. (associated with Athletic Training 3:2 Program).

Clinical Exercise Science: This concentration prepares students for graduate studies in Exercise Physiology or Biomechanics and leads to careers in cardiopulmonary, clinical exercise, and diagnostic testing and programming for cardiac rehabilitation and other special populations.

All-Level Physical Education: This degree program is designed to fully prepare students for all-level teacher certification in Physical Education as well as provide initial preparation for a potential second certification area; as such, students are required to declare and complete both a minor in Education and a second minor tied directly to an additional teaching certification area.