COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science (Health Management option) at Southeast Missouri State University is a 65-hour major designed to prepare students to apply exercise science principles in fitness, wellness, and health-related settings. The program focuses on understanding human physiology, movement, and health behavior in order to design safe and effective exercise programs for individuals across different ages, fitness levels, and health conditions.The curriculum builds a strong scientific foundation through prerequisite coursework in anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and mathematics. These courses help students understand how the human body functions and responds to physical activity at both structural and physiological levels.Core courses in the major focus on exercise science and health management concepts such as nutrition for health, exercise physiology, fitness conditioning, kinesiology, strength and conditioning, and sport and exercise pharmacology. Students also study lifestyle disease risk reduction and learn how exercise can be used to prevent and manage chronic health conditions.A significant part of the program is hands-on, applied learning. Students complete practicum and field experiences that allow them to work directly in fitness and health settings. The HL498 Field Experience (12 hours) provides extensive real-world training, where students apply exercise testing, fitness assessment, and program design skills with actual clients.Students also develop professional skills in research methods, exercise leadership, and fitness facility administration. These courses prepare them to evaluate scientific evidence, lead fitness programs, and understand the operational aspects of health and wellness facilities.Elective options in nutrition and health management allow students to specialize further in areas aligned with their career interests. Additional coursework in injury management and biomechanics (kinesiology) strengthens their ability to work safely and effectively with clients.Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in fitness training, wellness coaching, exercise program design, corporate health promotion, strength and conditioning, and health facility management. Overall, the degree combines science, practical experience, and leadership training to prepare students for professional roles in the health and fitness industry.