Bachelors of Exercise Science

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Exercise Science program at Franklin College is a highly hands-on and immersive program designed to prepare students for thriving careers in the rapidly expanding fields of health, wellness, fitness, and human performance. It combines rigorous scientific coursework with extensive clinical experiences and dedicated career development support. The program's core objective is to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to lead in both clinical and sports performance settings, fostering a deep understanding of the human body's response to physical activity and the principles of optimizing health and performance.

Curriculum: The curriculum emphasizes experiential, lab-based learning, prioritizing direct interaction with equipment like stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, heart rate monitors, and training apparatus over solely textbook learning. Students delve into a comprehensive range of subjects, including anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, sport psychology, and exercise prescription. From their very first semester, students gain proficiency in foundational health assessments such as EKGs and ultrasounds, ensuring practical skills become second nature. The program also integrates digital fluency, leadership development, and robust career preparation to ensure graduates are professionally competent and confident. The curriculum is aligned with industry standards, particularly the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) guidelines for exercise testing and prescription.

Research Focus: A unique and significant aspect of the Exercise Science program at Franklin College is the emphasis on independent research. Every major undertakes independent research involving human subjects, providing an exceptional opportunity for undergraduate students to engage in original scientific inquiry. This commitment to research aligns with the college's dedication to experiential learning. Past research topics have included investigating the acute physiological effects of high-altitude training masks, measuring physical changes after using blood flow moderation (KAATSU) training, and assessing the physical response to exercise using virtual reality gaming. This hands-on research experience hones critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication skills, preparing students for advanced studies or evidence-based practice.

Industry Engagement: The Exercise Science program at Franklin College prioritizes integrated and immersive clinical experiences from early in the curriculum, emphasizing evidence-based practice. Students have numerous opportunities to work directly with patients and clients in real-world settings. These experiences include off-campus opportunities at facilities like the Otterbein Senior Life Community, allowing students to apply their knowledge in a clinical context. Additionally, students have interned with prominent organizations such as the Indianapolis Colts strength and conditioning team, the University of Indianapolis strength and conditioning coaches, and various healthcare professionals including physicians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. This strong industry engagement ensures graduates possess practical experience and valuable professional connections upon graduation.

Global Perspective: Franklin College strongly encourages its Exercise Science students to broaden their horizons through global experiences. The college facilitates various study abroad and immersive opportunities that allow students to gain a global perspective on health, sport, and human performance. For instance, past exercise science majors have embarked on unique international journeys, including studying the history of sports in Ireland, interning with the Special Olympics in Costa Rica, and investigating the role of sport in addressing racial divides in South Africa. These global engagements not only enrich their academic understanding but also foster intercultural competence and adaptability, preparing them for a globally interconnected world in health and fitness.