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The EXSC program received initial CAAHEP accreditation May 2023.  
Exercise is Medicine-On Campus was integrated into Harrisburg University October 2023.

Harrisburg University Exercise Science program is recognized as an accredited Bachelor’s degree program by the American College of Sports Medicine’s (ACSM) Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) under the auspices of the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

This accreditation process requires that the Harrisburg University Exercise Science program annually meet or exceed a number of criteria concerning curriculum, internships, national certification exams, and post graduate employment.

100%

Culminating Experience
Pass Rate

85.6%

Student Retention Rate

72.7%

Graduation Rate

PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS

Harrisburg University EXSC PTA Pathway has Partnership Agreements with PTA Programs and Corporate Partners.

Program Description 

The Harrisburg University Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Pathway Program is a degree-completion program for licensed Physical Therapist Assistants. The hybrid curriculum model meets the needs of a diverse student population by utilizing a cost-effective approach. The program combines distant, simulation, and experiential learning that facilitates optimal educational opportunities for the exercise physiologist.

Industry Highlights


Career Outlook for PTA Exercise Science Pathway Graduates 

A bachelor’s in exercise science enhances the career of a physical therapist assistant by providing advancement opportunities in wellness, fitness, healthcare leadership, and other clinical pathways.

Exercise Science is the study of the effect of physical activity, diet, and health on human physiology.  Exercise Science professionals are a part of a multidisciplinary team in health and fitness.  Exercise Scientists help people improve their lives and perform at their maximum capacity through physical activity and lifestyle modification.


GRADUATE CAREER OPTIONS

This program offers a pathway for the pursuit of graduate opportunities in clinical healthcare programs and advanced leadership degrees. Here are a few popular career paths:

Athletic Trainer

Athletic Trainer

Occupational Trainer

Occupational Trainer

Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Additional career options include Fitness & Wellness Director, Exercise Physiologist, Medical Doctor, Occupational Therapist, Physician Assistant, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Healthcare Leadership, and University/Industry Research.


Admissions Process

EXSC PTA Pathway is designed for licensed PTAs as a pathway to obtain their B.S. in Exercise Science. Students are automatically granted 53 credits transferred upon EXSC PTA admission. The EXSC PTA Pathway program is only available to Licensed/certified PTAs.

Application Process

  • Apply online at https://apply.harrisburgu.edu/apply/ or complete a paper application that is available from the Admissions Office.
  • Submit all official college transcripts for all college, university, or diploma schools attended (whether academic credit was earned)
  • Provide the state and number of your current PTA license
  • Provide a video essay. (Video requirement found in application)
  • Provide one letter of recommendation from either an employer or faculty member
  • Provide a current resume and/or CV, including work experience and continuing education

Admission Criteria

GPA of 2.8 cumulative undergraduate (recommended)
Current PTA license
Successful completion of the application process (outlined above)
Admissions Deadlines
September 30th 2024 for Fall 2024 Cohort
December 16th 2024 for Spring 2025 Cohort

Program Courses

Students are required to complete 120 credits for the Bachelor of Science Degree. The following comprise the required core and experiential courses of the Exercise Science PTA Pathway degree program. Students will automatically transfer a minimum of 53 credits with 67 credits remaining for degree completion

Courses with an * requires travel to campus for intermittent laboratory weekends

Exercise Science Degree Certification

Exercise science education prepares students for a variety of certifications in the health and fitness industry.   Many of these certifications are available during and immediately following graduation from an exercise science program.  Obtaining certification provides physical therapist assistants additional career opportunities and advancement.  Suggested certifying bodies include:

  • American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
  • American Council on Exercise (ACE)
  • National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
  • National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
  • Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA)
  • Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA)