Committed to expanding opportunities for students and supporting their success, Wittenberg University announced that its exercise science program has been approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education, allowing students to pursue a major or minor in exercise science.
“The strong endorsement from faculty demonstrates that this is the right program for Wittenberg,” Interim Provost Mary Jo Zembar said. “We have exceptional programs in the sciences, and we have more and more students interested in health-related fields. This program will prepare our students for futures in careers and graduate programs that are growing - and growing in appeal - for our students.”
The course of study for students in the program includes, but isn't limited to, anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and exercise testing and prescription. Every student in the program will benefit from hands-on internship experience with local professionals. The new program prepares students for entry into the field of exercise science through careers in personal training, corporate wellness and coaching, and for entry into graduate programs in athletic training, physical therapy, or medical school.
“What I’m most excited about with this program is the way that it draws together expertise from a number of areas of strength on campus and in our athletics department,” Director of Athletics and Recreation Gary Williams said. “The new program has benefited from several partnerships, including a new relationship with Excel Sports Medicine and with Dr. Timothy Kremchek, Wittenberg class of 1981 and medical director and chief orthopedic surgeon for the Cincinnati Reds.”
According to national data, exercise science is among the fastest growing college majors, and the demand for exercise science professionals is expected to increase over the next decade. Wittenberg’s program will allow students to gain practical and theoretical knowledge in the context of a liberal arts education, equipping them with the skills needed for success in health and fitness fields.
“This new major is the result of collaborative work with a number of other departments and programs, including biology, athletics, sport management and athletic training,” Professor of Health, Fitness & Sport and Department Chair Steve Dawson said. “It is a powerful testament to the vision and leadership of our faculty, who combine deep knowledge of the field with an understanding of how exercise science can be powerfully linked with the curriculum at Wittenberg University.”
