The Bachelor of Science (BS) in exercise physiology provides training in anatomy, physiology, and all other prerequisites for medical and other professional schools. Students also receive sound clinical training with patients in our human performance laboratory and other clinical settings, and complete a minimum 180-hour clinical internship or research in their senior year.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (BS) in exercise physiology are equipped with communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills essential in today's job market. Upon graduation, they are eligible to take the certification examinations offered by the American College of Sports Medicine, and find work in a variety of clinical settings.
Others choose to continue their education in graduate and professional school. Select senior students are able to take a hands-on cadaveric dissection gross anatomy laboratory to further enhance their ability to compete for admission to physician assistant, physical therapy, medicine, or other rehabilitative science graduate programs. For well-qualified students who are interested in pursuing the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree (DPT) at WVU, the School of Medicine offers an Early Assurance Program.
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BS) in exercise physiology are required to complete either a minor or an area of emphasis prior to graduation.
The Aquatic Therapy area of emphasis is for students who would like to distinguish themselves by pursuing a specialized and rapidly developing health profession, and to prepare for the Aquatic Therapy and Rehabilitation Exam.
The Dance Science area of emphasis is for students who want to learn and engage in the application of principles of movement, mechanics, conditioning, training, and prevention of injury in dancers and performance artists.
The Health Professions area of emphasis starts early, with advanced prerequisites required beginning in the freshman year. Throughout the degree, it contains additional upper division science and clinical coursework to better prepare students for professional programs such as Medicine or Dentistry.
MD/PhD Program
“You only have one body, so being able to help someone through an illness is truly poignant and carries big impact.”
Exercise Physiology
“Our curriculum incorporates how to design studies, analyze and interpret medical papers and so much more. I knew I would learn a lot in my program, but I didn’t know exactly how applicable everything I learned would be to my medical school experience.”
Exercise Physiology
“It is a true privilege to work with some of the best young minds in all of WVU and to know in some small way you can make a difference in their lives. It is my goal to help all of our students become both successful scholars and important contributors to society.”
