Program Overview
The strength and conditioning concentration builds upon the B.S. in exercise science to prepare students for careers in athletic performance. Through advanced coursework, practical laboratory experiences, sport science technology, coaching practice, and supervised field experiences, students learn to assess performance, teach exercise technique, design evidence-based training programs, monitor athlete development, and communicate effectively with athletes and other professionals. The concentration is designed for students pursuing careers in high school, collegiate, or professional strength and conditioning, private sport-performance facilities, athlete testing and monitoring, sport science, and related coaching or human-performance roles.
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Curriculum and Admission Information
The 24-credit concentration builds upon the Exercise Science major through advanced coursework in strength and conditioning, sport science technology, applied coaching, nutrition and/or sport psychology, and two supervised field experiences. Concentration-specific coursework includes:
- EXS 251 – Advanced Strength and Conditioning - 4 credits
- EXS 252 – Data and Technology in Sport Science - 2 credits
- EXS 253 – Strength and Conditioning Practicum - 2 credits
- EXS 497 – Strength and Conditioning Field Experience I - 4 credits
- EXS 498 – Strength and Conditioning Field Experience II - 4 credits
- EXS 375 – Sports Nutrition and Ergogenic Aids - 4 credits
- COA 310 – Psychology of Coaching OR PSY 255 – Sport Psychology - 4 credits
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Applied Learning and Field Experiences
Following their on-campus practicum experience with Mount athletes, students complete a structured sequence of supervised field experiences that moves learning beyond the classroom and into authentic strength and conditioning settings. Across EXS 497 and EXS 498, students apply coaching, testing, program design, exercise technique, athlete monitoring, and professional skills while receiving direct feedback from qualified strength and conditioning professionals.
Together, the field experiences include the following minimum requirements:
- 300 supervised field experience hours
- 2 substantially different experiences
- 2 different qualified field experience supervisors
- 75 supervised hours per experience
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Program Mission and Goals
Mission
The strength and conditioning concentration at the University of Mount Union prepares students to become knowledgeable, ethical, and effective strength and conditioning professionals through a rigorous education grounded in science, applied practice, and meaningful field experience. The program develops students’ ability to integrate evidence-based knowledge in exercise science, coaching, testing and evaluation, program design, and athlete development while serving diverse populations. Through classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, and supervised field experiences, students are prepared to lead with professionalism, communicate effectively, use current methods and technology, and contribute to the health, performance, and long-term development of athletes and physically active individuals.
Goals
The strength and conditioning concentration seeks to:
- Provide students with a strong evidence-based foundation in the scientific principles that inform strength and conditioning practice.
- Prepare students to apply strength and conditioning knowledge and skills in coaching, testing and evaluation, exercise technique instruction, and program design for athletes and physically active individuals.
- Develop students who demonstrate professionalism, ethical judgment, effective communication, and safe practice in classroom, laboratory, and field experience settings.
- Provide meaningful supervised field experiences that allow students to integrate and apply program knowledge, skills, and abilities in authentic strength and conditioning environments.
- Prepare graduates for entry into the strength and conditioning profession and for success in roles that require evidence-based decision making, reflective practice, and continued professional development.
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Program Outcomes
Enrollment
As of fall 2026, there are three students enrolled in the B.S. in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning.
Retention Rates
As of fall 2026, there have not yet been any graduates of the B.S. in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning. As a result, retention rates related to graduation cannot be calculated.
Graduation Rates
As of fall 2026, there have not yet been any graduates of the B.S. in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning.
Graduate Placement Rates
As of fall 2026, there have not yet been any graduates of the B.S. in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning.
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) Pass Rate
Since there have not yet been any BS in Exercise Science with a concentration in Strength & Conditioning graduates, no CSCS pass rates can be calculated. However, several students from the BS in Exercise Students major have taken the CSCS exam. From August 2024-2026, four students have taken and passed the CSCS exam, resulting in a 100% pass rate.
Grievances
Though the University of Mount Union B.S. in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning is not yet accredited by CASCE, students enrolled in CASCE-accredited programs who wish to file a grievance may contact CASCE. When filing a grievance, students should include their name, contact information, name of the program, and a clear description of the concern. CASCE will review the information in accordance with its complaint policies and procedures.
Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE)
1885 Bob Johnson Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
709-632-6722 ext. 164
accreditation@nasca.com -
Accreditation Status
The University of Mount Union B.S. in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning is currently applying for accreditation through the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education. The program is not currently CASCE-accredited.