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What career opportunities exist in the area of Exercise Physiology?

    The exercise physiologist is one who utilizes the principles of exercise science in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings.  A range of opportunities exist including cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, physical and respiratory therapy centers, corporate and hospital fitness, community organizations, competitive sports programs, municipalities, and graduate studies

 

What is the starting salary one can expect with a degree in Exercise Physiology?

    Based upon experience, geographical location and employment setting an individual who has obtained an undergraduate degree in Exercise Physiology can expect a salary between $18,000 and $30,000 per year.

 

In what areas can I be certified as a result of completing this degree?

    Graduates of VSU are academically prepared to sit for the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) Exercise Physiologist-Certified (EP-C), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Health Fitness Instructor (HFI) or Exercise Specialist-Certified and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) examination, respectively.  

 

What are the degree expectations?

    Majors must satisfactorily complete all course requirements. In addition students must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 for all courses in the Exercise Physiology program.  Individuals must log a minimum number of clock hours in various settings.  These "hands on" experiences usually come from assisting program staff in the VSU Physical Fitness Center, Human Performance Laboratory, and various sites in the community.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with the Exercise Physiology major include:

  • The relationship between physical fitness and the prevention and/or treatment of disease.
  • The role of exercise in managing body weight, body composition and fat distribution.
  • The physiological responses to exercise under various environmental conditions and disease processes.
  • The musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory and biomechanical adaptations associated with peak human performance.
  • The ability to administer safe and scientifically sound health appraisals, exercise tests and prescriptions for the apparently health poulous and those with disease and/or disabilities.
  • The ability to plan, manage and evaluate various health and exercise programs within clinical and non-clinical settings.
  • The knowledge of medications, electrocardiography and various diagnostic procedures in the detection, treatment and/or prevention of cardiopulmonary disease.
  • The socioeconomic, medical, culture, and gender constraints associated with health promotion, disease prevention, and rehabilitation programs.
  • The role of exercise scientist in epidemiology, public health, and health education.
  • The knowledge, skills and abilities to improve the overall health of the region, state and nation.