The Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences major at the University of Minnesota Duluth is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES).
Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences majors at UMD engage in the study of human movement, broadly encompassing the biomechanical, physiological, and psychological adaptations that occur as a result of physical activity and regular exercise.
Unique to the Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences curriculum at UMD is the full integration of active-learning lab experiences featuring equipment, facilities, and technology typically only found at larger research institutions. Upper division courses feature a weekly lab component which is delivered in a small class size environment to maximize hands-on experiences for the students.
Students culminate their coursework with capstone experiences featuring personal training within the context of an adult fitness program and student research projects. Additional opportunities exist for students to conduct independent research under the guidance of faculty mentors. Such projects have the potential to be presented at the local, state, and national professional meetings, providing students with unparalleled opportunity for personal growth and professional development.
The Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences begins with an introduction to the discipline of Exercise Science, with foundational science coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Additional lower division courses include anatomy and physiology, and technique courses in the assessment of aerobic fitness and resistance training exercises. Upper division coursework begins with the core exercise science areas of Biomechanics, Exercise Physiology, and Motor Learning & Control. Additional applied coursework provides further exploration into areas of study such as:
- Clinical Exercise Physiology
- Exercise Adherence
- Exercise Testing & Prescription
- Nutrition & Metabolism
- Strength Training & Conditioning
- Statistics & Research Methods
The Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences curriculum is designed to provide foundational knowledge to prepare students for the next phase of their education or future employment, such as:
- Allied Health careers (Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Athletic Training)
- Medical careers (Doctor of Medicine (MD), Nursing, Physician Assistant)
- Graduate study in Exercise Science
- Entry level employment in health & fitness
- Certification or licensure examinations
The National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) Education Recognition Program (ERP) has recognized UMD's Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences major as an approved strength and conditioning undergraduate curricula designed to prepare students for the NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer and/or NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certifications.
The University of Minnesota Duluth has been recognized as a Silver Campus by the American College of Sports Medicine's Exercise is Medicine® On Campus (EIM-OC) initiative for its commitment to educate students, faculty, and staff about the benefits of increased physical activity and to create a culture of wellness on campus.