FAQ about ³ÉÈËÖ±²¥'s AES Program

How many faculty members are there in the Applied Exercise Science program?

We currently have six full-time and one half-time faculty with expertise in all areas of exercise science. 

What is the average class size for the Applied Exercise Science courses?

Our major-specific classes typically include 35–40 students and laboratory classes include 14 students.

What percent of graduates secured employment or acceptance to graduate/professional school with in one year of graduation?

91% of graduates of the class of 2017 were employees or accepted to graduate/professional school within one year of graduation.

What can I do with the AES degree?

The AES degree prepares you for entry-level career opportunities as an exercise science professional in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, non-invasive cardiology, strength and conditioning, corporate fitness, and personal training.

What types of internship opportunities are available?

Our program allows you to pursue a wide range of potential internships, including cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, non-invasive cardiology, strength and conditioning, pre-professional physical therapy, corporate fitness, and personal training.

Internship settings include colleges and universities, sport/athletic organizations, hospitals/clinics, private/commercial/community health and fitness facilities, municipalities, corporations, and nonprofit organizations.

How many internship hours per week am I required to complete?

All students in the AES program are required to complete a minimum of six credit hours of internship (45 hours per credit, total of 270 hours) during their senior year. This can be accomplished by completing two three-credit hour internships or one six-credit hour internship during the summer semester after the junior year or fall and/or spring semesters of the senior year. The internship experience has been strategically placed in the senior year because we want you to have the necessary knowledge and skills that will be asked of you at your internship site. A three-credit-hour internship averages 10 hours per week for a total of 135 hours over the semester. A six-credit-hour internship averages 20 hours per week for a total of 270 hours over the semester.

Will I need a vehicle?

In order to participate in an internship, you must have your own means of transportation. Although we make every effort to accommodate students who need to be placed close to campus, we strongly encourage you to secure a reliable vehicle before progressing to the internship stage of our program.

Can I enroll and participate in a summer internship? 

Yes, you can register for EXS 499 during the summer semester. You will work with the Internship Coordinator during the spring semester leading up to your internship to secure placement and coordinate the required Documentation of Placement and Clinical Affiliation Agreement with the site. Summer tuition rates apply based on the credit load of the internship.

What is the National Strength and Conditioning Association and the American College of Sports Medicine?

The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is the worldwide authority on strength and conditioning. It supports and disseminates research-based knowledge and its practical application to improve athletic performance and fitness. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is the largest and most respected sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world. The ACSM promotes and integrates scientific research, education, and practical application of sports medicine and exercise science, to maintain and enhance health, quality of life, fitness, and physical performance.

What is the first-time pass rate on accredited national certification examinations from the NSCA and ACSM?

The AES five-year average first-time pass rate on accredited national certification examinations from the NSCA and ACSM is 87%.

What is the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Educational Recognition Program?
The Educational Recognition Program (ERP) recognizes that an academic institution's educational program meets educational guidelines recommended by the NSCA. The Applied Exercise Science program has been endorsed by the NSCA ERP since 2006.