46 courses with the subject EXS, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
EXS 102Fundamentals of Resistance Training Techniques2
Resistance training, also called weight training or strength training, is structured exercise in which muscles of the body are forced to contract under tension using weights, body weight, or other devices in order to stimulate growth, strength, power and endurance. This course provides the beginner student with hands-on experience using these various methods along with instruction on proper exercise technique and safety precautions.
EXS 103Fundamentals of Group Exercise and Resistance Training3
This course is intended to provide the student with the content knowledge and practical experience concerned with teaching group exercise classes as they develop oral communication skills. Furthermore, this class will provide the student with the skills necessary to properly perform essential exercises and the knowledge to teach others about the proper training techniques and form for the major muscle groups using a variety of exercises, free- weights, and machines. Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis
EXS 222Introduction to Medical Terminology and Drug Classifications2
This course offers an introduction to common clinical abbreviations and medical terms through an analysis of their construction including prefix, suffix, root, connecting and combining forms. The student acquires an understanding of medical meanings applicable to structure, function and diseases of the human body. Students will also learn how drugs are classified and for what major conditions they are used and learn how to use the Physicians Desk Reference. Distance education offering may be available.
The purpose of this course is to lay the foundation for students to learn how anatomy affects movement of the human body. The course will build upon, reinforce, and challenge the student's basic knowledge of structural anatomy with the intention of acquiring a mastery of basic concepts in this discipline. Presentation of concepts will begin with whole body orientation by region, and then work additively and systematically from skeletal anatomy identifications and joint structure / alignment analysis, through muscular and neurovascular investigation to provide a comprehensive study of clinically applied structural anatomy. EXS 223 Prerequisite: Successful completion of BIO 259.
This class introduces basic anatomical and physiological concepts critical to understanding human movement, exercise, physical education and how the human body functions. The class examines the anatomy, physiology and exercise physiology of the skeletal and muscular systems. Throughout the course, special attention will be paid to the impact of development (growth and maturation) on the systems covered. Students will be required to apply these anatomical and physiological principles to physical education, exercise and sport.
This course examines the behavioral, physiological, and psychological principles underlying motor control and motor learning. Specific topics include classifications and measurement of motor performance; the role and function of sensory processes, perception, memory, and attention; and the delivery of feedback and structure of practice. Distance education offering may be available.
This course introduces students to the background of the exercise science profession, the meaning of professionalism, the Code of Ethics for the profession, certification options available within the field, relevant professional organizations, the relationship of the exercise scientist to the healthcare network, the scope of exercise science practice and various career options. In addition, students will learn about the academic requirements and curricular issues related to the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. Also students will understand how to build an impressive portfolio to support subsequent opportunities. Lastly, alternative career options and graduate education will be explored.
This class introduces basic anatomical and physiological concepts critical to understanding human movement, exercise, physical education and how the human body functions. The class examines the anatomy, physiology and exercise physiology of the following systems: nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and renal systems. Metabolism and the generation of energy will also be discussed. Throughout the course, special attention will be paid to the impact of development (growth and maturation) on the systems covered. Students will be required to apply these anatomical and physiological principles to physical education, exercise and sport.
This course is intended to provide the student with a fundamental understanding of selected mechanical and anatomical laws of motion, actions caused by forces and their application to the study of mechanical structure and analysis of motion. Students will be able to use and apply these principles to various forms of movement. EXL 362 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXS 223; PHY 100 or PHY 130. Corequisite: EXL 362.
This course is designed for students interested in the psychosocial issues related to sport and exercise behavior. This course will introduce students with theories and practices inherent in the field of sport and exercise psychology. Additional emphasis will include intervention strategies to promote exercise behaviors and long-term adherence to a physically active lifestyle. EXS 375 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXS 270 and PSY 100. Distance education offering may be available. 340
This course investigates the physiological principles which explain how the human body responds and adapts to physical activity, exercise, and work. EXS 380 Prerequisite: Successful completion of BIO 269 and EXS 180. Corequisite: EXL 380. Distance education offering may be available.
Designed to prepare students to assess the physical fitness levels of healthy but sedentary adults and prescribe individualized exercise programs. EXS 381 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXL 380 and EXS 38; and current CPR certification. Corequisite: EXL 381. Distance education offering may be available.
This course is designed for students interested in exercise-based interventions in mental health disorders. This course will introduce students to the use of dosed-exercise as part of clinical treatment. Detailed and practical strategies for developing, implementing, and evaluating physical activity-based interventions for people with mental health disorders will be discussed. Exercise strategies that are specifically tailored for common mental health disorders, such as addictions, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and more will be covered. Distance education offering may be available.
The purpose of this lecture course is to give students a clear understanding of the principles and practices of strength and conditioning, including among other things, exercise technique and program design. This course takes the science gained in previous classes and applies it toward improving the performance of and decreasing the risk of injury in athletes. This course also serves as partial preparation for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist exam given by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. EXS 482 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXL 362, EXL 380, EXS 362, and EXS 380. Distance education offering may be available.
EXS 483Advanced Principles of Strength and Conditioning3
This course combines practical knowledge and hands-on experiential learning in strength and conditioning that is used in a variety of athletic settings, such as: professional sports teams, intercollegiate athletics, high school strength and conditioning, youth, etc. Distance education offering may be available.
EXS 484Organization and Management of Adult Fitness Programs Clinic/Seminar3
This course provides students with practical knowledge in organizing, managing and implementing adult fitness. Students will get hands on experience in the following areas: personal training, program design, leading group exercise classes, retention, liability protection, facility safety, facility design, budgeting, and promotion and marketing. Special emphasis is placed on standards and guidelines set forth by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). EXS 484 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXL 381 and EXS 381.
EXS 486Exercise Prescription - Special Population3
Designed to provide students with practical experience in organizing and managing physical fitness programs for adults. EXS 486 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXS 381. Distance education offering may be available.
A survey course investigating the multidisciplinary nature of environmental physiology. It will explore the impact of different environments on the physiology of humans while at work and play. This course will examine the thermal environments (hot, cold, humidity), baraphysiology (altitude and depth), microgravity and space, air pollution, and chronobiological rhythms. Laboratory experiences, both computer simulation and "hands-on," will be included in the course. EXS 487 Prerequisite: Successful completion of BIO 468, BIO 469, or EXS 380.
EXS 489Clinical Exercise Testing and Interpretation3
This course is designed to teach students how to administer graded exercise tests, take blood pressure and heart rate measurements during exercise, administer and interpret standard resting and exercise 12-lead electrocardiograms at a fundamental level, and how to properly prescribe exercise based on test results and using metabolic calculations. Understanding the athletic heart is a major focus. EXS 489 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXL 381 and EXS 381. Corequisite: EXL 489. Distance education offering may be available. 2026-2027 CATALOG - UNDERGRADUATE
The Exercise Science internship course is a capstone experience that permits students to apply their academic training and develop oral communication skills under the direction of certified fitness/wellness professionals and/or licensed clinical professionals. While classroom input is inherent in educational programs at West Chester University, the application of academic theory gives the student experiences that will add to their personal and professional maturity. The internship is a requirement for all students in the Exercise Science Division of the Kinesiology Department. The internship provides the student with the opportunity to ask pertinent questions, make observations, and participate in agency activities that normally would not be possible for a paid, full-time employee. All internship experiences must be undertaken in an agency that guarantees to provide the student with supervision by an exercise specialist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, chiropractor, or physician assistant possessing appropriate academic and certification credentials as well as licensure, appropriate to the student's concentration of study. Gen Ed Attribute: Speaking Emphasis, Writing Emphasis
A supplemental experience to EXS 490 which will enable students to explore other internship or work settings including physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic care, cardiac rehabilitation, strength and conditioning coaching, commercial fitness, corporate fitness, personal training, or similar related practice. The experience would be at a different site than the required internship - EXS 490. Hours required range between 42 (for one credit) to 250 hours (for six credits).
This course will examine selected topics of temporal or special interest that are not normally part of the regular ongoing exercise science curriculum. Students will be provided an opportunity to pursue research, study, and/or application of knowledge and development of skills in an applied setting, which may include an off-campus component. Repeatable for credit.
This course is designed to build the graduate student's understanding of the research process and to foster development of creative options for research-based connections with current faculty and graduate students. Students will apply concepts introduced in Research Methods and other prior graduate coursework toward building a framework for their graduate thesis. Course content will be centered on small group discussions where invited faculty will introduce their specific line of research and engage students in open discussion on potential for future collaboration. Distance education offering may be available.
EXS 534Exercise Adherence in Clinical and Non-Clinical Settings3
This course provides students with an overview of exercise adoption and adherence in clinical and non-clinical settings. Specifically, the course prepares students to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds to adopt and maintain exercise behavior in their daily lives as well within medical and rehab environments. Distance education offering may be available. 183
This course will provide an overview of exercise science from the standpoint of its applied science underpinnings. The biomechanics component of this course will survey orthopedic anatomy with special attention to joint-specific alignment and function. Governing principles of biomechanics applied to lever systems, fluid mechanics, neuromuscular characteristics, and biomaterials will be introduced and performance measurement techniques will be illustrated in kinetic, kinematic and electromyographic terms. The advanced motor learning component is designed for further understanding of motor learning theories, principles, and practice. Behavioral, physiological, and psychological principles underlying the discipline will be covered. Specific topics include classifications and measurement of motor performance, sensory processing, perception, memory, and attention. The exercise physiology component will reinforce neuromuscular function and integrate cardiovascular, respiratory and endocrine system function into sport performance and training. Topics will include bioenergetics, anaerobic and aerobic mechanisms influencing physical conditioning, specificity, energy expenditure, fatigue and performance. Current best practices in performance and body composition enhancement via ergogenic aids, nutrition and supplementation will be introduced. Students will engage in readings and activities aimed at enhancing their ability to both understand and apply concepts to professional practice. Distance education offering may be available.
An investigation of the theories, research, and practical applications of the processes and conditions involved in the teaching and learning of physical skills.
This course is designed to introduce the student to basic principles of business development and marketing in the context of the fitness and exercise industry marketplace. Students will learn business and academic skills needed to build and manage a successful 21st century business. This course will focus on the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, recognizing opportunities, determining the feasibility of a business idea, conducting market research, and managing marketing strategies.
This course is designed to build upon the student's basic knowledge of applied orthopedic anatomy in the context of pathology and related to resistance exercise prescription. Students will apply basic knowledge of structural orthopedic anatomy and biomechanics to movement and positional limitations typically associated with common sport injuries.
This is a practicum course, consisting of a structured practicum experience at an assigned site for completion of the 400-hour requirement necessary for the certified mental performance coach credentialing exam as required by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology. The practicum applies the knowledge and skills of the required prerequisite coursework. EXS 611 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXS 534, EXS 640, EXS 641, and EXS 646. Distance education offering may be available.
A graduate course aimed at covering psychological influences on sport performance and exercise behaviors in a diverse population. Additionally, it will cover how sport and exercise performance and behaviors impact psychological processes. Students will use existing theory in developing best practices for working directly with the population. Distance education offering may be available.
A graduate course designed to acquaint students with theory, research and practical issues associated with group dynamics and team cohesion. The course will address leadership, group/team processes, and team building. Students will learn about the impact of roles, communication, accountability and diversity on team function and dysfunction. Distance education offering may be available. 184
A graduate course designed to acquaint students with the application of theory to practice within sport and exercise psychology settings. Students will critically examine the theoretical foundation of applied sport psychology and explore the nature of sport and exercise psychology practice. Students will also be introduced to ethics of consultancy and practical issues associated with delivering sport and exercise psychology services within diverse settings. Distance education offering may be available.
EXS 646Neuroscience Perspectives in Sport & Exercise3
The purpose of the course is to study specific aspects of the field of neurosciences that relates to the intricate relationship between brain/mind and body function in sport, physical activity and overall. Theoretical reviews of applied and clinical research, meta-analysis and case analysis will widen the depth and scope of student effectiveness in the field of sport and exercise psychology. Distance education offering may be available.
EXS 681Metabolic, Endocrine, and Digestive Physiology3
Clinical and laboratory use of exercise in evaluating, maintaining, and modifying human physiological processes: specifically metabolism, and weight control; endocrine functions in health and disease; and digestive function pertaining to exercise and disease. Distance education offering may be available.
This course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the structure and function of the nervous system related to skeletal muscle and its responses and adaptations to exercise.
This course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms underlying cardiopulmonary function and the effects of acute and chronic exercise on these mechanisms.
A course designed to prepare professionals to assess fitness levels of persons over the age of 50 and scientifically design exercise and fitness programs to meet the specific needs of the older participant. Distance education offering may be available.
An in-depth study of how exercise is used in clinical settings for diagnostic, rehabilitative, and preventive purposes. ACSM guidelines will be emphasized. Designed to prepare the student for the ACSM certification exam (exercise specialist). Distance education offering may be available.
The course provides experience in a clinical setting under the supervision of qualified medical staff. Experience will include exercise prescription and supervision of exercise of patients in settings such as hospitals and outpatient clinics.
This course along with the subsequent EXS 699, is the culminating experience in the program curriculum. It includes development of hypothesis and methods under the direction of a faculty advisor. If taken to theses, this course should culminate in the acceptance of the thesis proposal by an appropriate committee of faculty. If taken as either a report or theses, the course results in the writing of the first three chapters (Introduction, Review of Literature and Methods) and IRB approval. If taken as a clinical capstone experience, this course will be taken under the direction of the graduate student's clinical research advisor. Distance education offering may be available.
This course includes data collection, statistical analysis, and the writing of the last three chapters of the report/thesis. Reports are submitted to the faculty research advisor for grade. Thesis must be defended and approved by the committee. After approval by the examining committee, thesis must be typed in accordance with specifications contained in the "Guide to the Preparation of the Master's Thesis", a copy of which may be obtained from departmental offices or online. After the Dean of The Graduate School has approved the thesis, the student is responsible for transmitting all required copies to the library for binding. EXS 699 Prerequisite: Successful completion of EXS 698. Distance education offering may be available. 2026-2027 CATALOG - GRADUATE
