There are five program learning outcomes (PLOs) identified in the Exercise Science department. They are as follows:
- Students completing the BS in Exercise Science will be prepared and workplace proficient for their first position in the field.
- Students completing the BS in Exercise Science will be experienced in the use of technology and equipment for assessment and exercise.
- Students completing the BS in Exercise Science will be able to develop and implement exercise prescriptions for apparently healthy, increased risk, athletic, and special populations.
- Students completing the BS in Exercise Science will be able to apply a strong natural sciences foundation to concepts in biomechanics, nutrition, research, exercise assessment and prescription, and programming.
- Students completing the BS in Exercise Science will be able to effectively read, comprehend, and critique published research.
Curriculum Map
All five of the PLOs have been mapped against the required EXS curriculum and each PLO is introduced, reinforced, mastered, and assessed in the curriculum. The PLOs were revamped in 2016 to improve alignment with the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and alignment across the St. Charles and Belleville campuses. When the new curriculum for Exercise Science was introduced and approved for implementation starting in the 2017-18 academic year, the courses were aligned with PLOs utilizing a curriculum map.
This detailed curriculum map shows alignment between the Program Learning Outcomes and specific classes in the curriculum—where the outcomes are introduced, reinforced, and mastered. The map also provides information about High Impact Practices, or “HIPs,” such as service learning, undergraduate research, internships, and long term projects and in what classes these experiences occur. Finally, the map also provides information about Course Learning Outcomes.