50 Careers for 50 Years: Meredith Arnau
A flag football injury led Meredith Arnau to become a B.S. in Exercise Science major, which provided an excellent foundation for physical therapy school.
Exercise Science has become an increasingly valued discipline within public health, the medical community, and even high-performance environments. Exercise has even been acknowledged for its role in the treatment of heart disease, hypertension, obesity, type II diabetes, cancer, depression, anxiety, and other chronic diseases & stress related disorders.
The mission of the Department of Exercise Science (EXSC) is to promote an environment of excellence and achievement in human health and performance. As part of our forward-thinking vision, EXSC is used as a resource to train the next generation of scientists and practitioners in the latest techniques and technologies in the field. In addition to advancing the science, we emphasize translation of this research for greater integration into practice and application.
The department’s Ph.D. program has consistently been ranked as one of the top 5 programs in the United States by the National Academy of Kinesiology. Our program prepares graduates for entry into positions in universities, colleges, research oriented settings, and industry. Specific areas of research specialties correspond to those listed for the departmental faculty.
Degrees Offered
In addition to the bachelor degree in exercise science, we offer four advanced degrees. Each graduate degree has specific application deadlines and requirements.
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science (BS)
- Master of Science in Exercise Science (MS)
- Master of Science in Performance Nutrition and Dietetics (MS)
- Master of Science in Advanced Athletic Training (MS)
- Master of Public Health in Physical Activity and Public Health (MPH)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Exercise Science (PhD)
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Exercise Science News
Brain Health Fitness program uses exercise to fight cognitive decline
A new collaborative research study from USC Brain Health and the Arnold School goes one step further by examining how consistent, physical exercise can also help combat cognitive decline and improve overall neurological health.
August graduate discovers passion for vestibular therapy
With interests in geriatrics and vestibular rehabilitation, Outstanding DPT Student of the Year Award winner Alejandra Medina-Reyes will soon begin a Geriatrics Physical Therapy Residency.
50 Careers for 50 Years: Brandon Vaughn
Fifteen years after graduating with his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, Brandon Vaughn is the CEO of Vertex Physical Therapy Specialists, which provides customized care at three Midlands locations and through a home health branch.
50 Careers for 50 Years: Sara Shuger Fox
Throughout her career – which has mostly taken place in Central College’s Department of Kinesiology, where she currently serves as chair – Fox has found herself prepared by her doctoral training.
Shawn Arent elected to Executive Board of the National Academy of Kinesiology
Five years after his election as an Active Fellow in the National Academy of Kinesiology, exercise science professor and chair Shawn Arent will join the organization's Executive Board as Member-at-Large.