Exercise and Health Science, B.S.

Montana Technological University - Exercise and Health Science Program Mission Statement: 

The mission of the Exercise and Health Science degree program is to empower students through an evidence-based, interdisciplinary curriculum, fostering knowledge in human movement, exercise physiology, and health promotion to prepare them for leadership roles in clinical, wellness, and performance settings.

Program Goals:

• Professional Preparation: Prepare students for entry into graduate programs such as medical school, physical therapy, occupational therapy and physician’s assistant programs as well as for professional certifications (e.g., ACSM, NSCA) and entry-level positions in clinical, fitness, or wellness fields.
• Scientific Knowledge Application: Equip students to apply anatomical, physiological, and biomechanical principles to assess and improve human performance and health.
• Critical Thinking & Research: Develop skills to analyze, interpret, and apply scientific research to practical, evidence-based exercise prescription.
• Interdisciplinary Communication: Foster effective, ethical communication skills for working within multidisciplinary healthcare teams and with diverse populations. 
   

Learning Objectives: Upon completion of the Montana Tech Exercise and Health Science Program students will be able to:

1. Apply core principles of human anatomy and physiology to explain the structure and function of major body systems and their responses and adaptations to exercise.
2. Analyze biomechanical principles to evaluate human movement patterns and joint mechanics in laboratory settings and identify common movement dysfunctions.
3. Conduct and interpret exercise physiology assessments (e.g., VO₂max, submaximal exercise testing, range of motion, strength testing, and ECG) to evaluate cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and metabolic responses to acute and chronic exercise.
4. Design individualized, evidence-based exercise prescriptions for general and special populations using the FITT principle within the Montana Tech Exercise and Health Science Program.
5. Evaluate risk factors and clinical signs of cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic disease to conduct pre-participation screenings and formulate safe exercise recommendations.
6. Communicate exercise and health science concepts clearly and professionally through written reports, oral presentations, and data visualizations for varied audiences and patient populations.