Exercise Science is an interdisciplinary field tying together traditional disciplines as biology, physiology, psychology, chemistry, physics, neuroscience, genetics, nutrition, and sociology to facilitate an understanding of the links between physical activity, exercise, fitness, performance, diet, and health.
Exercise Science has become an increasingly valued discipline within public health, the medical community, and even high-performance environments. Exercise has even been acknowledged for its role in the treatment of heart disease, hypertension, obesity, type II diabetes, cancer, depression, anxiety, and other chronic diseases & stress related disorders.
The mission of the Department of Exercise Science (EXSC) is to promote an environment of excellence and achievement in human health and performance. As part of our forward-thinking vision, EXSC is used as a resource to train the next generation of scientists and practitioners in the latest techniques and technologies in the field. In addition to advancing the science, we emphasize translation of this research for greater integration into practice and application.
The department’s Ph.D. program has consistently been ranked as one of the top 5 programs in the United States by the National Academy of Kinesiology. Our program prepares graduates for entry into positions in universities, colleges, research oriented settings, and industry. Specific areas of research specialties correspond to those listed for the departmental faculty.
In addition to the bachelor degree in exercise science, we offer four advanced degrees. Each graduate degree has specific application deadlines and requirements.
Papers published by researchers in the Department of Exercise Science have been selected as the nationwide winners of outstanding manuscript awards from two major athletic training journals.
Exercise science associate professor and athletic training expert Susan Yeargin describes how extreme heat can be dangerous for runners, cyclists and anyone spending time outdoors. Plus, six tips for staying safe.
Donna Arnett, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost, is pleased to announce the selection of a highly accomplished public health leader, Tara Sabo-Attwood, as the new dean beginning August 1.
The Arnold School is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Faculty Awards: James A. Keith Excellence in Teaching Award (Sheri Silfies), Faculty Research Award (Melissa Nolan), and Faculty Service Award (Toni Torres-McGehee).
The Department of Exercise Science has selected seven students from among those nominated by faculty members, to receive the 2024 Outstanding Exercise Science Student Awards.
Just one year after receiving the top service award from the National Association of Athletic Trainers, Toni Torres-McGehee has been selected as the winner of the 2024 USC Educational Foundation Outstanding Service Award.