Mission Statement

The exercise science major provides opportunities to create and foster positive attitudes toward physical and mental health. Liberal learning skills are integrated throughout the major via critical thinking, writing, and oral interpretation from a Christ-centered perspective, maintaining the mission of Bethany Lutheran College. Academic work within the major empowers students to demonstrate and educate others on the importance of lifelong fitness, while at the same time providing theoretical and practical knowledge and skills needed to establish a lifestyle for themselves and others that promotes health and prevents disease. An exercise science graduate will be prepared for a career in a variety of health and fitness fields or to pursue an advanced degree. Finally, our graduates are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and Christian ethics through a Biblical worldview and a personal philosophy of wellness.

Student Goals

1. Develop broad learning consistent with the philosophy and objectives of Bethany Lutheran College.
2. Demonstrate foundational knowledge in the principles of biology, chemistry, health and wellness, nutrition, human growth and development, human anatomy, and physiology as they relate to responses and adaptations during physical activity and exercise.
3. Demonstrate advanced knowledge in the field of exercise science including motor learning and development, kinesiology, exercise physiology, and aerobic and anaerobic conditioning responses in health and disease.
4. Demonstrate competency in health and fitness testing and measurement of individuals.
5. Assess, design, implement and re-evaluate fitness programs for all individuals.
6. Interpret appropriate research and apply it to the practice of exercise science.
7. Formulate a personal philosophy of wellness integral to balanced healthy living.

Program Learning Outcomes

A Bethany Lutheran College exercise science graduate will:

1. Demonstrate competency in health and fitness testing, and measurements of individuals.
2. Appropriately assess, design and implement fitness programs for all individuals.
3. Formulate a personal philosophy of wellness consisting of a balanced, holistic outlook, including Christian ethics, as applied to the field of exercise science.
4. Interpret appropriate research and apply it to the practice of exercise science.