UWA’s exercise science program receives national recognition

LIVINGSTON, Ala.—The National Strength and Conditioning Association has just named the University of West Alabama an NSCA Recognized School, giving its stamp of approval for the Education Recognition Program (ERP).

The recognition as an NSCA ERP Recognized Undergraduate Strength and Conditioning Program is for UWA’s exercise science program offered in the physical education and athletic training department. This recognition adds distinction to degrees awarded in the academic program and also offers exceptional benefits to schools and students affiliated.

According to the NSCA, the ERP helps ensure excellence for students in the classroom, as well as long-term professional success after graduation. The NSCA awards such recognition to schools that have a demonstrated commitment through curricula that prepares students for NSCA certification.

For more than 35 years, the NSCA has been a leader in building stronger professionals within the strength and conditioning industry, and Dr. James Robinson, an associate professor of exercise science, this milestone is a step in a forward direction for the growing program.

“Exercise science has seen tremendous growth over the past six years,” explained Robinson, who also serves as director of UWA’s exercise physiology lab. “I expect exercise science to reach the 200-student mark by fall 2018. This growth is due to the commitment from the department and the University to student career development. My mission is for every exercise science student to be employed in the field and well-prepared for graduate school immediately upon graduation.”

Benefits of the recognition include discounts on certification exams and clinics, student memberships, and premier access to growth opportunities through NSCA, like grants and scholarships, and internship and assistantship programs. The recognition is valid for a three-year period expiring in March of 2020.

UWA’s exercise science program is designed to prepare students who are seeking careers in corporate and clinical settings. These may include strength and conditioning coaches, physical therapy, cardiac rehabilitation, occupational therapy, hospital-based wellness programs, health/fitness instructors, sport training programs, corporate or health club director, and a slate of other fitness and health related opportunities.

The academic major includes 60 combined hours of coursework in exercise science, along with biology, physical education, chemistry and physics. An exercise science minor is also offered at UWA.

For more information on UWA’s Exercise Science program, contact Dr. James Robinson at jhrobinson@uwa.edu or 205-652-3441, or apply online at www.uwa.edu/ exercisesciencemajor.aspx.