In one of Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Exercise and Sport Science labs, junior Megan Fuson learns through quality instruction and instructional aids such as anatomical and skeletal models. She also practices strength and flexibility testing methods using adjustable exercise chairs and high-tech equipment.
EKU’s Exercise and Sport Science (ESS) program aims to meet a rising demand for professionals who can help people lead healthier lives, reduce healthcare costs and improve personal function. The program equips students with the necessary skills to prevent and treat injuries and promote overall well-being, making them valuable assets in today’s evolving healthcare landscape.
“Our ESS program is one of many healthcare fields offered at EKU that contributes to a holistic healthcare model,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Employers consistently seek to hire EKU graduates across all healthcare fields, because our students graduate job-ready and they understand the specific needs of the communities they serve.”
EKU’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science offers several concentrations tailored to meet industry needs and allow students to specialize in areas that prepare them for careers in athletic training, physical therapy, exercise physiology and other fields emphasizing health optimization.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment outlook for exercise and sport science related professions looks promising. The employment of athletic trainers is projected to grow by 13% through 2033, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. Likewise, the demand for physical therapists is expected to increase by 14% during the same period, reflecting the growing need for rehabilitation and preventative care services.
Fuson, an ESS major from Kenton County, Kentucky, always knew she wanted to pursue a career in healthcare and found her calling in Exercise and Sport Science at EKU.
“I chose EKU because of the affordability and location,” said Fuson. “I started with intro level ESS classes my first year of college, and I knew then and there this is something I’m passionate about.”
By integrating coursework with practical experience, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared to address health challenges and improve the quality of life for their clients—whether through direct entry to the field or continued graduate studies.
Fuson has convenient access to local clinics such as KORT for her observation hours and works an internship with ESS Professor Dr. Michael Lane at the Stratton Building.
“I’ve been very lucky to practice with real-life experiences such as running fitness testing and getting a research perspective as well,” said Fuson.
As part of the internship, she performs VO2 max testing on student participants, a type of exercise test that measures the maximum amount of oxygen the body uses, indicating the level of cardiovascular fitness and endurance. Additionally, she conducts a physical performance test. These tests are similar to those that police officers go through to become officers. She said the purpose of the study is to “see how performance changes in subjects when additional load is added.”
In addition to her coursework, observation hours and internship, Fuson serves as Vice President of the ESS Club, planning events such as volleyball night, hiking trips, informational workshops and study sessions to help build a community within the program.
“I’m using the skills I’ve gained to grow professionally and personally,” she said. “Our classes can be challenging but our professors make themselves available to students—you can tell they want us to succeed.”
After graduating, Fuson plans to attend graduate school and wants to work with youth. As healthcare continues to emphasize preventative strategies and holistic wellness, EKU’s Exercise and Sport Science students, like Fuson, will be well-positioned to lead the way.
Campus spaces such as the Clinical Evaluation Lab, Exercise Physiology Lab, Biomechanics Lab and the Burke Wellness Center provide hands-on lab experiences for students to reach their goals. The ESS program is part of the Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise and Sport Science, with multiple majors aimed at improving function and health.
Further expanding its reach in healthcare education and access, EKU is currently seeking approval for a College of Osteopathic Medicine.
By A’Mya Kendrick
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