Exercise Science

Department Chair: Mary Ann Erickson
Email: erickson_m@fortlewis.edu

Professors: Mary Ann Erickson, Melissa A. Knight-Maloney, Cathy M. Simbeck, and Robert H. Stremba
Associate Professors: James S. Cross, Marcelyn B. Jung, and Carrie A. Meyer
Assistant Professor: Robert L. Frazer
Visiting Instructors: Mark K. Dutro, Jeb C. Davis, Timothy J. Thomas, and Melissa A. Thompson

Departmental Mission

The Exercise Science department aims to meet the needs of our graduates to function as critically thinking professionals within our disciplines. We strive to have our students ready to compete in the current job market by providing students with a variety of opportunities to develop a scientific knowledge base, engage in practical experiences, and learn, develop, and master social and leadership skills. Students acquiring this knowledge will be prepared to pursue opportunities in adventure education, athletic training, exercise specialist, physical education teaching, sport administration, and coaching as well as other clinical, recreational, wellness, and fitness careers. The department also endeavors to provide the students of Fort Lewis College with opportunities to learn and experience the components of healthy living, life-long learning and sport competition. Exercise Science Faculty model, as well as teach, commitment, critical thinking, life-long learning and physical activity.

Objectives

The professional preparation of knowledgeable and skilled educators of human movement and exercise forms as well as qualified practitioners in adventure education, athletic training, sport administration, health, personal training and fitness.
To foster a meaningful program promoting the value of a lifetime of physical activity for all students.
To provide practical experiences through internships, practica, field courses, clinical education, and service learning.
To develop professional leadership and communication skills for all the department’s students.

Programs of Study

The Exercise Science Department houses three majors, Athletic Training, Adventure Education and Exercise Science. The Exercise Science major has four options: Sport Administration, Exercise Specialist, Exercise Physiology and K-12 Teaching.

As with all majors, the Exercise Science faculty encourage strong contact with Exercise Science advisors to ensure timely completion of the major. The Exercise Physiology option is for those students planning on attending graduate school in Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Physical Therapy, or Motor Learning. Students who are planning on pursuing a career in Personal Training should register for the Exercise Specialist Option.

The Exercise Science K-12 Teaching option gives high-quality academic preparation to students who wish to become Colorado licensed K-12 physical education teachers. This option is extremely demanding and requires careful planning and advising. Students choosing this option should consult an Exercise Science Department advisor as early as possible in their careers, and should read the Teacher Education Licensure Program section of this catalog for the steps and requirements for applying to the Teacher Education Licensure Program and requirements for completing the program.

An Exercise Specialist is a fitness professional who guides another person in developing physical fitness. The basic components of fitness include muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and body composition. This option will provide students with the requisite knowledge to pursue a career in a health care area which has seen tremendous growth. Students have the option of sitting for the National Council on Strength and Fitness Personal Trainer certification exam in their senior year.

The Sport Administration option is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in the business of sport. In order to fully prepare our students, this option combines both an academic foundation and practical experience. The option has a business focus in that students take courses in the Exercise Science department as well as the School of Business Administration. In addition, students will gain valuable practical experience by completing two field placements in any of the following areas: collegiate, recreational, and fitness industries.

Sport Administration Competitive Admission Requirements

Sophomore standing, but no more than 80 total credits unless approved by department chair/program director.
Written letter of application in approved business format stating objectives
Interview with faculty committee
Cumulative GPA of 2.50
Two letters of recommendation
• One character reference from an adult mentor
• One Fort Lewis College faculty reference detailing professional potential
Current professional resume

Sport Administration Internship Requirements

Establish internship file with Career Services
Acceptance into Sport Administration program
Senior standing
Major GPA of at least 2.50
Successful completion of ES 339
Completion of all major course work

Majors and Minors in Exercise Science:

Exercise Science - Coaching Minor

Exercise Science Major - Exercise Physiology Option

Exercise Science Major - Exercise Science K-12 Teaching Option

Exercise Science Major - Exercise Specialist Option

Exercise Science Major - Sport Administration Option

Exercise Science Minor