Bachelor of Science with a Major in Exercise Science and Wellness

The Exercise Science and Wellness program provides a strong foundation in traditional exercise physiology, supplemented by study in nutritional, mental and emotional aspects of wellness. One of the primary goals of the program is to prepare graduates to sit for the certification examinations of the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association. This preparation is accomplished through the rigorous scientific study and subsequent application of physiological changes and adaptations that occur during various modes of physical activity in clinical, preventative and performance settings, and culminates in a one-quarter internship experience.

A graduate of the exercise science and wellness major may develop a career as cardiac/pulmonary rehabilitation physiologist, exercise physiologist, group exercise coordinator, exercise specialist, corporate wellness manager, strength and conditioning coach, or personal trainer.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate and interpret media and research findings about exercise using an evidence-based approach.
  • Communicate physical activity and fitness information in both written and oral formats in a clear, cohesive and accurate manner.
  • Describe physical activity needs for healthy people using a whole-person perspective.
  • Develop a physical activity and exercise prescription to meet the needs of an individual while considering fitness, performance and disease prevention goals.

Admissions

For general information on the admissions process, please refer to the Admissions section in this catalog. The information below refers only to the exercise science and wellness undergraduate program.

Prerequisites

Entering undergraduates must have at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA with a grade of C or better in all basic proficiency and science requirement courses. Prior to enrolling, students must have completed 90 quarter credits (60 semester credits), including a minimum number of credits in the basic proficiency, science and general education categories. Surplus credits not used to satisfy basic proficiency or science requirements may be applied to the appropriate general education requirements.

Note: Students may apply to the program while completing prerequisite coursework.

Basic Proficiency and Science Requirements
English Literature or Composition 9 quarter credits
General Psychology 3 quarter credits
College Algebra or Precalculus
4 quarter credits
General Chemistry (science-major level with lab) 8 quarter credits
General Biology (with lab) 4 quarter credits
Introductory Nutrition1 5 quarter credits

1The nutrition course must include macro- and micronutrients, lifecycle, and physical activity.

General Education Requirements
Natural Science and Mathematics 8 quarter credits
Arts and Humanities 15 quarter credits
Social Sciences 15 quarter credits
Speech Communication or Public Speaking 3 quarter credits
Electives1 16 quarter credits


1The number of elective credits may vary depending upon the exact number of quarter credits earned in the other prerequisite categories. Total prerequisite credits must equal at least 90 quarter credits

Graduation Requirements

Upper division Bachelor of Science students enrolled at Bastyr University must complete a minimum of 180 credits (inclusive of credits transferred into Bastyr). To graduate, Bachelor of Science students must have a minimum 2.0 grade point average with a minimum of 45 quarter credits in residence at Bastyr University.

The curriculum tables that follow list the tentative schedule of courses each quarter.

Junior Year (Year I)

Fall

BC3123Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences Lecture/Lab

6

BC3161Anatomy and Physiology 1 Lecture/Lab

3

EX4115Motor Learning & Development

3

IS3111Interdisciplinary Experiences in Natural Health Arts and Sciences

1

PS3128Psychology of Sports and Exercise

2

Total Credit Hours:15

Winter

BC3113Living Anatomy

3

BC3162Anatomy and Physiology 2 Lecture/Lab

3

BC4117Biochemistry for Life Sciences 1 Lecture/Lab

5

TR4100Introduction to Research Methods

3

Total Credit Hours:14

Spring

BC3163Anatomy and Physiology 3 Lecture/Lab

4

BC4140Biochemistry for Life Sciences 2

4

EX3101Biomechanics 1

2

EX3105Physical Activity and Wellness

2

Total Credit Hours:12

Senior Year (Year II)

Fall

EX4100Physiology of Exercise

5

EX4102Biomechanics 2

3

EX4107Sports Nutrition

5

EX4119Principles of Resistance Training

3

Total Credit Hours:16

Winter

EX4105Business Principles in Health Promotion

2

EX4112Seminar in Ergogenic Aids

1

EX4123Exercise Prescription & Testing

5

EX4133Exercise Prescription for Special Populations

2

EX4140Community Health Promotion

2

PS4112Creating Wellness

3

Total Credit Hours:15

Spring

EX4810Internship-Exercise Science and Wellness

12

Total Credit Hours:12

Elective and Activity Requirements

General Electives

4

Activity Credits

2

Total Credit Hours:6

General elective courses may be from any program or department. There is also a graduation requirement of Advanced First Aid and CPR.

Activity Credits-Two one-credit activity courses are required (e.g. tai chi, aerobics, yoga, tennis, etc.).

Total Requirements

Total Core Course Credits & Hours 84
Total Elective and Activity Credits and Hours   6
Total Requirements  90

Curriculum and course changes in the 2015-2016 Bastyr University Catalog are applicable to students entering during the 2015-2016 academic year. Please refer to the appropriate catalog if interested in curriculum and courses required for any other entering year.