Health and Human Performance

This major provides a strong science-based curriculum of advanced study in exercise physiology, exercise testing and prescription, strength and conditioning, and research methodology with an emphasis on the improvement and understanding of athletic performance. Laboratory activities, research, and clinical applications are components of this program. Majors will be prepared for careers in clinical rehabilitation/research settings, strength and conditioning settings, the health/fitness industry, and future graduate study in areas that include but are not limited to exercise science, exercise physiology, kinesiology, physical therapy, etc. This program prepares students to challenge select certification examinations with organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association and others.

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Physiology reflects the current and future trends to prepare students for continued graduate study and to successfully challenge national certification examinations with organizations, such as the ACSM and NSCA. There is a large laboratory experience associated with this degree to enhance performance understanding, and interpretation of important laboratory techniques in exercise and sport physiology. Upon completion of this major, exercise and sport physiology students will possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of general overall physiological principles associated with metabolic processes; musculoskeletal system; cardiovascular system; aerobic and anaerobic program design.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of pathophysiology and risk factors associated with exercise and disease.
3. Demonstrate the ability to administer and interpret health appraisals, fitness and clinical exercise testing.
4. Demonstrate the ability to administer and interpret electrocardiography and other diagnostic techniques associated with physiological processes.
5. Describe and understand issues involved with patient management and medications.
6. Design and monitor exercise prescriptions and fitness programming.
7. Assess and evaluate nutritional intake and demonstrate the ability to design weight management programs.
8. Demonstrate knowledge of safety, injury prevention, and emergency procedures associated with laboratory activities and general exercise.
9. Demonstrate knowledge of cardiovascular physiology, pulmonary physiology, metabolic processes and associated pathophysiology and risk factors for disease.
10. Demonstrate knowledge of orthopedic/musculoskeletal issues including pathophysiology and risk factors for injury.
11. Demonstrate proficiency in performing laboratory techniques and subsequent analysis of data commonly used in a Human Performance Laboratory.
12. Demonstrate knowledge of and show ability to carry out the research process in a collaborative environment.

For more information contact about our Exercise and Sport Physiology program, contact:

Dr  Ryanne Carmichael, Contract Faculty
Department of Health & Human Performance
Plymouth State University
Plymouth, NH  03264
(603) 535-3114