Exercise Science

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

Exercise science majors study the human body — from cells to muscles — to understand how to help people live healthier lives through exercise, rehabilitation and nutrition. Graduates of CBU’s exercise science program have gone on to careers in clinical exercise physiology as well as graduate work in physical therapy, athletic training, occupational therapy and other areas of allied health. While the majority of learning takes place in the classroom, many courses are designed to apply textbook knowledge in the lab, clinic and community.

About the Program
Interesting Courses
Student Learning
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Why study exercise science at CBU?

Perform research with faculty
Faculty routinely perform research and always bring undergrad students into the experience. We have state-of-the-art equipment to measure oxygen levels, cardiac outcomes, muscle function, immune parameters and environmental extremes. In our exercise physiology lab, we have a treadmill big enough for 6 people to run at the same time. The department is collegial (and not territorial) which means we happily refer students to our colleagues in order for them to find their passion.

Serve overseas
Each year our program sends students across the world with Global Health Engagement. Through this program, they get to practice their discipline (physical therapy, strength and conditioning, athletic training, and more) in a unique setting. We have sent students to China, Africa, and the Philippines.

Nutrition Science

KIN 300

Includes the study of principles of modern nutrition, the importance of a scientific knowledge of nutrition, nutritional controversies and more.

Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries

KIN 353

A course providing instruction and experience in the prevention and care of injuries incurred in athletics.

Lifelong Motor Development

KIN 332

A study of the physical growth and development of humans and how it interacts with and influences motor learning and performance.

Student Learning

Evidence of Student Learning

1. Demonstrate an ability to effectively read, evaluate, and utilize research related to exercise science.
2. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the relationship between disease prevention and health promotion.
3. Display effective professional communication skills.
4. Demonstrate comprehension of personal wellness and holistic health concepts.
5. Develop skills to collaborate and consult as a member of the healthcare team.

Take the next step toward living your purpose

As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.

Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

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Career Opportunities

Fitness Instructor
Exercise Specialist
Sports Coach
Physical Education Instructor
Corporate Wellness Consultant 
Health Club Manager
Occupational Therapist
Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Exercise Physiologist
Athletic Trainer
Physical Therapist
Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist

*Some career opportunities may require further education

70-72

Units

100

Students in Program, On Average

10–22%

Expected Rate of Growth in the Field

Student Testimonials

"I did physical therapy and it inspired me to follow that passion of serving people in that way. My professors were intentional in helping me get all of the pre-req classes for physical therapy school. They often include a verse of the day in lecture and share their own testimony in class which is always encouraging."
Sydney Bennett, 2020

"I want to become a physical therapist and the professors in this program have been super nice and helpful. I have grown spiritually by seeing how intricate God created the human body."
Klay Solomon, 2020

"I love learning about how the body works and seeing God's beautiful design and creativity revealed in the body. I hope to pursue physical therapy in the future and my professors prepare you really well for the health science field and are enthusiastic about what they are teaching."
Madelyn Bradley, 2021

Meet Some of Our Faculty

Sean Sullivan

Chair, Professor

Kinesiology chose me more than I chose it. I like to think and play, and to think about playing. Being a professor in kinesiology allows me to do both. I’m a generalist and get excited about all the ways I can study the integration of body and mind. My goal is to guide students to better understand God and serve and experience him through both our minds and bodies.

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Trevor Gillum

Professor

I grew up in rural Oklahoma. As a boy, I dreamed of being the incarnation of both Troy Aikman and Wayne Gretzky. Unfortunately, my build more closely resembles Steve Rogers pre-transformation into Captain America. Alas, since a career as the first ever hockey/football star was not meant to be, I stumbled into academia where I study how exercise impacts the immune system.

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Amy Miller

Professor of Kinesiology

I love all games, sports and activities and being outside. I love to challenge myself and my students to ask how and where the laws of nature give us insight into God’s character. Kinesiology utilizes skills to help us connect with and love people in unique and exciting ways. I hope to inspire my students to see past the numbers and prescriptions to the individual who is standing before them desperate for help.

See Profile >

Sean Sullivan

Chair, Professor

Kinesiology chose me more than I chose it. I like to think and play, and to think about playing. Being a professor in kinesiology allows me to do both. I’m a generalist and get excited about all the ways I can study the integration of body and mind. My goal is to guide students to better understand God and serve and experience him through both our minds and bodies.

See Profile >
Trevor Gillum

Professor

I grew up in rural Oklahoma. As a boy, I dreamed of being the incarnation of both Troy Aikman and Wayne Gretzky. Unfortunately, my build more closely resembles Steve Rogers pre-transformation into Captain America. Alas, since a career as the first ever hockey/football star was not meant to be, I stumbled into academia where I study how exercise impacts the immune system.

See Profile >
Amy Miller

Professor of Kinesiology

I love all games, sports and activities and being outside. I love to challenge myself and my students to ask how and where the laws of nature give us insight into God’s character. Kinesiology utilizes skills to help us connect with and love people in unique and exciting ways. I hope to inspire my students to see past the numbers and prescriptions to the individual who is standing before them desperate for help.

See Profile >