Exercise Science Program Advances with Key Approvals and New Developments

A significant step forward for the HPS Exercise Science Program as it has been recently approved by the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE) to proceed with their application and self-study. This marks a milestone for the department as it seeks to strengthen its academic offerings further and align with industry standards.

In addition, the department was approved to launch a new undergraduate program: a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a concentration in Strength and Conditioning. Scheduled for a potential launch in Fall 2025, the new concentration is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in both exercise science principles and strength and conditioning techniques, meeting the growing demand for specialized professionals in the field.

They also have received approval for a 3+2 Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science (BS in ES) to a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT). This accelerated pathway allows students to complete both their undergraduate and graduate degrees in just five years, streamlining their journey into the high-demand field of athletic training. The 3+2 program is expected to attract students seeking a fast-track route to a professional career, with both academic and clinical experience integrated throughout the curriculum.

Furthermore, we are working on 2+3 initiatives with regional community colleges, designed to provide a seamless transition for students who start their education with an Associate’s degree and want to continue their studies toward an MSAT. These partnerships will allow students to earn an Associate degree from the community college, and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and an Master of Science in Athletic Training from WSU all in 5 years, if approved.

As part of broader efforts to update and modernize its academic offerings, the university has also been approved to change the degree titles for two key programs. The Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science and Master of Education in Exercise Science will be renamed to the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Master of Science in Exercise Science. This title adjustment better reflects the science-based curriculum of the programs and is expected to enhance the appeal of these degrees among prospective students.

These developments come as part of the university’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality education in the growing field of exercise science, with an emphasis on practical skills, scientific knowledge, and industry-relevant training. The department’s collaboration with CASCE and its alignment with professional certification standards are expected to help students in their future careers, particularly those pursuing certifications in strength and conditioning.