College of Health Professions

Exercise and Nutrition Science (EXNS)

Our program is one of few in the country that combines exercise and nutrition sciences in a single degree. We offer unique opportunities to fine-tune your career pathway through specialization in Allied Heath, Health Promotion, Nutrition and Wellness (Dietetics), or Strength and Conditioning. Because the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a faster than average job growth rate for exercise, health, and nutrition fields through the year 2024, we feel confident that our majors are prepared for rewarding careers and advanced educational and training opportunities.

Concentrations

Allied Health

With a heavy focus on science courses along with study in areas like exercise physiology and testing, biomechanics, and pharmacology, the Allied Heath concentration prepares students with a variety of graduate school and career opportunities. With the job market for physical and occupational therapists remaining strong for the foreseeable future, this concentration is a good fit for those interested in the science of exercise and human movement. Students will complete an internship in settings that allow them to apply their learning in physical therapy, rehabilitation, and sports medicine facilities.

Allied Health Program Overview

Health Promotion

At its heart, exercise and nutrition science is all about advocating for health and wellness. That’s why we offer a focused concentration in Health Promotion. A wide variety of courses – from Personal Health to Sports Nutrition and Health-Fitness Management—prepare students for careers in community health and recreation facilities, senior wellness programs, fitness programming, public health, and rehabilitation.  This concentration includes an applied internship opportunity in the student’s field of interest

Health Promotion Program Overview

Nutrition and Wellness/Dietetics

Recognizing that biomechanics and exercise science are directly affected by how we fuel our bodies, our Nutrition & Wellness concentration provides the opportunity to study the components of a healthy diet and proper nutrition. Students who earn exceptional grades are eligible for admission to our accredited program in Dietetics; the best route toward becoming a Registered Dietitian in the state of Alabama.

Coordinated Program in Dietetics

Coordinated Program Admission Application

Program Overview

 

Strength and Conditioning

The strength and fitness industry is ripe with opportunities for those who have developed the experience, knowledge and skills to lead individuals and organizations to discover and maximize their physical potential. It is a practical concentration that prepares our students to meet industry standards as researchers, educators, strength coaches, personal trainers, and other roles in related fields.  An applied internship opportunity is tailored to meet the student’s future career goals.”

Strength and Conditioning Education Program

Strength and Conditioning Program Overview

Minor

A non-teaching minor with a minimum of 18 hours in Exercise and Nutrition Science is available. Students should consult the Bulletin for more information.

EXNS Human Performance Lab

Dr. Fennell and four EXNS students standing behind table with lab equipment
A female student is taking blood from a male student
Students using lab equipment.
Two female students and VO2 testing equipment
Two female students in weight room
EXNS professor recording female student's jump height
Hydrostatic Weighing Lab
Male student bow drawback
A male student preparing to release an arrow
Two students assessing VO2 during and after another student does back squatting.
Dr. Fennell and four EXNS students standing behind table with lab equipment A female student is taking blood from a male student Students using lab equipment. Two female students and VO2 testing equipment Two female students in weight room EXNS professor recording female student's jump height Hydrostatic Weighing Lab Male student bow drawback A male student preparing to release an arrow Two students assessing VO2 during and after another student does back squatting.