Human Physiology and Nutrition, Undergraduate Programs

Human Physiology and Nutrition, BS

The Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology and Nutrition offers students a degree that is specifically designed for those who want to study human-specific aspects of health and disease as they prepare for careers that require advanced professional degrees and/or licensure (e.g. medical doctor, osteopathic doctor, physician assistant, chiropractor, dentist, registered dietitian nutritionist).

Learning Outcomes

The specific Program-Level Learning Objectives were developed with the intention of preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals and scientists for employment in rapidly growing and evolving settings.

• Students will form a strong foundational knowledge in the basic life sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, physiology, and nutrition
• Students will demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary for entry level employment in health-related fields or pursue advanced degrees in clinical practice or applied sciences by:
  • Applying principles and knowledge gained through coursework to novel problems and situations in clinical and/or applied research settings.
  • Demonstrating effective communication skills in both academic and clinical settings.
  • Demonstrating the ability to use equipment and technology germane to the fields of human physiology and nutrition.
  • Exhibiting the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Employing professional and ethical behavior in clinical and/or applied research settings.

Exercise Science, BS

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science provides an undergraduate education for individuals seeking careers in a wide variety of health fields. Some of the most common career and job opportunities under the umbrella of exercise science include: athletic trainer, exercise physiologist, medical physician, occupational therapist, physical therapist, physician assistant, cardiac rehabilitation specialist, and strength and conditioning specialist. This degree will prepare students for advanced professional degree programs by offering students the opportunity to enroll in a broad exercise major.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will understand the physiological, anatomical, biomechanical, and nutritional principles that govern and influence exercise and sport performance.
• Students will understand the application of physiological, anatomical, biomechanical, and nutritional factors that contribute to exercise, physical activity, and sport performance.
• Students will be able to measure a variety of fitness and sports performance-related values in a variety of individuals.
• Students will be able to demonstrate and apply the knowledge and skills of research design, measurement, and evaluation used in the field of exercise science.
• Students will be able to demonstrate reasoning, problem solving, and critical thinking in the context of exercise science.

Strength and Conditioning Option - BS in Exercise Science

Nutrition Option - BS in Health Care Science

This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Students may earn the credentials of a Registered Dietitian by completing an ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship Program (DI) after completion of the Nutrition program, and pass the National Registration Exam for Dietitians. This program is no longer accepting new students as a master’s degree will be required to take the Registered Dietitian exam as of 2024.

Athletic Training Prep Track - BS in Exercise Science

This track prepares students for application to the Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT)* at UCCS. (Admission into the MSAT is not guaranteed.) This concurrent degree route provides Exercise Science students the opportunity to enter a 5-year concurrent degree program, ultimately leading to both the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and the Master of Science in Athletic Training. Students wishing to pursue the concurrent degree should complete the Exercise Science degree coursework. Within the HPNU upper division electives and general electives requirements, students should complete pre-requisites for admission to the MSAT program and dual credit courses as indicated below.

*Note: The MSAT program is a professional preparation program, leading to eligibility for national certification as an Athletic Trainer through the Board of Certification, Inc. (BOC) upon successful award of accreditation status. (The program began seeking CAATE accreditation status in 2018, anticipating a decision in Spring 2020.)  Admission to the MSAT program is not guaranteed. Students not admitted into the MSAT can continue to completion of the BS degree.