Exercise Physiology

Curriculum (BS)

Through a combination of classroom instruction, research, and clinical experiences, our unique, accredited curriculum prepares students for postgraduate studies or immediate employment.

Exercise physiology undergraduate students are required to complete a minor or area of emphasis prior to graduation. Within the WVU Division of Exercise Physiology, students can choose from three areas of emphasis: health professions, aquatic therapy, or dance science. Students who wish to pursue a minor from outside the division should consult with their academic advisor.

Students can also enhance their learning experience and earn credit by assisting in research with animals or humans, working with clinical patients in the human performance laboratory, or through global engagement and study abroad.

Program Requirements

Students completing the Bachelor of Science (BS) in exercise physiology must complete the General Education Foundations (GEF), prerequisite, and major requirements as outlined in the West Virginia University Academic Catalog. Each student will have a personalized plan of study located in DegreeWorks, including any previously-completed college coursework that is approved as transfer credit.

To be eligible for graduation, students must earn a grade of C or better in all required graded courses and must complete a minimum of 120 hours. A cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better is required to remain in the program and students who fail to maintain these requirements will be eligible for dismissal from the program.

Pathways

Students who intend to pursue graduate or professional studies in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or physician assistant programs may have to complete a limited number of additional courses to meet graduate or professional program entrance requirements, but otherwise have great flexibility in their choice of minor or area of emphasis. For example:

  • Students intending to pursue Occupational Therapy (Masters or Doctorate) should take the following electives: PSYC 281 and ANTH 105.

Students who intend to pursue graduate or professional studies in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or other graduate school programs - or who are unsure of their intended educational and career progression - are encouraged to consider the health professions area of emphasis.