PHILIPPI, W.Va. – Alderson Broaddus University is pleased to announce the addition of a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. The announcement was made on Wednesday, February 24, 2016 during a press conference held on AB’s campus.
The new exercise science major reaffirms the importance of the institution’s history and heritage in the health sciences while developing new academic programs to match 21st century market-driven demands. This program serves as excellent preparation for further study in various health care fields.
“We are pioneering the way and being proactive to the changes that are forthcoming in the athletic training field,” said Dr. Michael Boehke; chair of the school of athletic training, program director and associate professor of athletic training at AB. “The exercise science major will be housed in the College of Health Sciences. Students who complete the degree will earn a Bachelor of Science in exercise science with a concentration in at least one of four health care specializations: athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and orthotics and prosthetics.”
The exercise science major provides an option for undergraduate students seeking future employment in a health care profession. The program at Alderson Broaddus University was specifically designed to focus students’ attention on professions associated with rehabilitation.
“A bachelor’s degree in exercise science will teach students how to create exercise programs that are safe and effective for a variety of individuals,” said Boehke. “Students will learn to promote wellness within individuals of different fitness levels and abilities. The curriculum will focus on rehabilitation, injury prevention and sports performance, and will include an internship.”
Courses will include: anatomy and physiology, orthopedic evaluation, rehabilitation, kinesiology and biomechanics, nutrition, and psychology.
Graduates will be qualified to pursue a graduate education in many other health care fields, including athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and orthotics and prosthetics. They will also be prepared to take the exams required to become fitness instructors, strength and conditioning specialists, and cancer exercise trainers.
“The major is designed to allow students to participate in extracurricular activities and possibly travel abroad while earning their degree,” said Boehke. “It is our hope that this program will become a premiere major in preparing future health care professionals.”
To view the press conference in its entirety, please click here.
Alderson Broaddus University is continuing to work on adding more academic initiatives, which will be announced in the near future.