close-up of student checking over another student's knee with professor standing beside to offer instruction

The Exercise Science (ESCI) major at our institution offers four distinct concentration areas, tailored to prepare students for various career paths in health risk intervention, fitness promotion, and sport programming. These concentrations include Fitness, Strength, and Conditioning; Pre-Athletic Training; Pre-Occupational Therapy; and Pre-Physical Therapy.

Alongside comprehensive coursework, students engage in experiential learning capstone projects, applying their knowledge and skills to an original research project. Our core sequenced courses align with the standards set by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and our program is recognized as a preparatory track for Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certification and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification. Each concentration has specific semester hour requirements, ensuring students receive tailored education to suit their career goals.

ESCI concentration areas include:

Fitness, Strength, & Conditioning

Our Fitness, Strength, and Conditioning concentration within the field of Exercise Science is a dynamic and comprehensive concentration designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving world of fitness and athletic performance.

At Defiance College, we understand the vital role that fitness, strength, and conditioning play in optimizing human performance, whether you aspire to become a personal trainer, sports coach, or work in sports medicine. Our program combines cutting-edge research, hands-on practical experience, and a strong foundation in exercise science to prepare you for a rewarding career in this thriving field.

By choosing our Fitness, Strength, and Conditioning concentration, you are taking the first step toward becoming a sought-after fitness professional, capable of helping individuals and athletes achieve their performance and wellness goals. Join us in the pursuit of excellence in exercise science and embark on a fulfilling career dedicated to improving human health and performance.

Are you ready to take your passion for fitness and athleticism to the next level? Explore our program and start your journey towards a rewarding career today!

Pre-Athletic Training (Pre-AT)

If you aspire to play a crucial role in the world of sports medicine, injury prevention, and athlete care, this concentration is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge and skills required to pursue a career in Athletic Training.

At Defiance College, we understand that athletic trainers are the frontline professionals responsible for keeping athletes in peak condition, preventing injuries, and facilitating recovery. Our Pre-Athletic Training Concentration is tailored to prepare you for competitive graduate Master of Athletic Training programs.

If you're passionate about sports, athlete care, and making a meaningful impact on athletes' lives, explore our Pre-Athletic Training concentration and embark on a fulfilling journey towards becoming a certified athletic trainer.

Are you ready to step into the world of athletic training? Start your journey today!

Pre-Occupational Therapy (Pre-OT)

Welcome to the Pre-Occupational Therapy concentration within our Exercise Science program at Defiance College. If you aspire to become a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) and are passionate about helping individuals regain their independence and improve their quality of life, this specialized concentration is designed to set you on the path to success.

At Defiance College, we recognize that occupational therapy is a vital field that transforms the lives of individuals facing physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. Our Pre-Occupational Therapy concentration is carefully crafted to equip you with the knowledge, skills, prerequisites and experiences needed to gain admission to competitive Doctor of Occupational Therapy graduate programs.

If you're passionate about helping people of all ages and abilities achieve their daily living goals and regain independence, explore our Pre-Occupational Therapy concentration. Join us in shaping the future of healthcare and embark on a fulfilling journey towards a rewarding career in occupational therapy!

Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of others through occupational therapy? Start your journey today!

Pre-Physical Therapy (Pre-PT)

Welcome to the Pre-Physical Therapy concentration, an integral part of our Exercise Science program at Defiance College. If you're passionate about helping individuals regain their mobility, improve their physical function, and lead healthier lives, our specialized concentration is your gateway to a fulfilling career as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT).

At Defiance College, we understand the pivotal role physical therapists play in the healthcare industry, and we are committed to preparing you for success in highly competitive Doctor of Physical Therapy graduate programs. Our Pre-Physical Therapy Concentration provides you with the essential knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to excel in this rewarding field.

If you're passionate about promoting mobility, relieving pain, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals of all ages, explore our Pre-Physical Therapy concentration. Join us in shaping the future of healthcare and embark on a fulfilling journey towards a rewarding career in physical therapy!

Are you ready to make a positive impact on the lives of others through physical therapy? Start your journey today!

Major Learning Outcomes (MLOs)

By the completion of this program, students will be able to:

Apply essential knowledge of anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, and/or exercise techniques to create an appropriate health promotion, intervention or fitness program for various populations.
Discuss the interrelationship between disease prevention, health promotion, and personal wellness.
Integrate discipline specific knowledge and skills with the abilities to effectively read, evaluate, and utilize evidence-based practice and research.
Demonstrate effective interpersonal and professional communication skills in working with peers, clients, supervisors and professional colleagues.
Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion by considering unique characteristics and values of individuals to approach assessment and/or programming in a culturally sensitive manner.

Additionally, the required experiential learning opportunities (field experience and internship) supplement the exercise science courses with hands-on experiences and skills.

PROGRAM RECOGNITION

Having our exercise science program recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) assures students that our curriculum is aligned with NSCA standards. We are recognized as an educational preparation program for both the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) and Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification examinations. Earning one (or both) of these professional certifications allows students to leave DC with a recognized specialization area along with their degree. Students can also use these certifications to gain an advantage in obtaining graduate study opportunities or initial employment in health, fitness, or sport settings.