University of Portland Bulletin 2024-2025

Exercise Science

Terry Favero, Ph.D., biology, director

Exercise science students study the science of human movement though a variety of lenses including chemistry, biology, physics, engineering, and social sciences in addition to public health and policy. Exercise science is not just about lifting weights, it is about helping people overcome barriers to change, prevent injury, manage stress, reduce risk of disease and overall, live longer, happier lives, leading to stronger and healthier communities. Exercise and movement professionals have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to walk alongside individuals in their journey to live healthier lives through exercise, rehabilitation programming, and nutritional support. Exercise professionals have career opportunities in health care organizations such as cardiac rehabilitation specialists, clinical exercise physiologists, personal fitness coaches, fitness manager, sport massage therapists, geriatric exercise specialist, occupational, and physical therapists.

Learning Outcomes for the Exercise Science Minor

Students completing the exercise science minor will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the scientific facts, principles, and concepts of physical activity, exercise, and human movement.
  2. Analyze the relationships between physical activity, exercise, human movement, and/or health and wellness promotion.
  3. Read, evaluate, and apply research related to physical activity, exercise, and human movement related topics.

Minor Requirements - 15 credit hours

Exercise Science Elective - 3 credit hours

Select one course from the following:
Upper-division EXS course

3

IHW 310Foundations of Health Education and Health Promotion

3

IHW 312Research Methods for Public Health Practice

3

IHW 411Technology in Health

3

Please consult with the program director to select the eligible upper-division EXS course.

Required Courses - 11 credit hours

BIO 305Human Anatomy and Physiology 1

3

BIO 365Human Anatomy & Physiology Lab 1

1

BIO 306Human Anatomy and Physiology 2

3

BIO 366Human Anatomy & Physiology Lab 2

1

BIO 418Biology of Exercise

3

Or

Upper-division EXS course

3

Please consult with the program director to select the eligible upper-division EXS course.

High-Impact Experience Elective - 1 credit hour

Select one course from the following:
BIO 397Internship

Variable

BIO 497Internship

Variable

BIO 493Research

Variable

IHW 493Research

Variable