Download the Exercise Science Major Handout (PDF)
Experiential, lab-based learning
The Franklin College exercise science major is designed to prepare students for careers in both clinical and sports performance settings, covering anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, nutrition, exercise and more. Courses accentuate hands-on, lab-based learning, preferring a stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, heart rate monitor and exercise equipment to a textbook. That approach is demonstrated as early as freshman year when students perform foundational health assessments like EKGs – electrocardiogram tests that assess a patient’s heart health – which become second nature well before graduation. In addition to coursework, every major pursues independent research on human subjects, a unique opportunity for undergraduate students. Past research topics have included:
The curriculum also infuses business, marketing and career preparation skills, giving students the professional competence and confidence they need to lead in the field.
Integrated and immersive clinical experience
The Franklin College exercise science faculty emphasize evidence-based practice and introduce clinical experiences into the program as early as possible. Majors have the opportunity to work directly with patients off campus at the Indiana Masonic Home or on campus with INSPIRE, a program for people with intellectual disabilities. Students often continue their education abroad, taking advantage of the college’s ample travel opportunities. Past exercise science majors have studied the history of sports in Ireland and interned with the Special Olympics in Costa Rica. Students have also interned with:
100% PA and PT graduate program placement
While graduate school isn’t required to have a successful career in the field, 100% of Franklin College exercise science majors who have chosen to pursue physical therapy and physician assistant graduate programs have been accepted since 2017. Past students have also pursued advanced degrees in occupational therapy, medicine and kinesiology and secured jobs working in:
Assistant professor of exercise science
Phone: 317.738.8357
Email: madolphs@FranklinCollege.edu
Associate professor of exercise science
Phone: 317.738.8202
Email: keiler@FranklinCollege.edu
Assistant professor of exercise science
Phone: 317.738.8739
Email: aheavrin@FranklinCollege.edu
Associate professor of exercise science
Phone: 317.738.8112
Email: knoerr@FranklinCollege.edu
100% of students in our 2018 senior class were accepted into graduate programs.