Fairmont State University

What you'll study

This degree combines core studies in anatomy, physiology and biomechanics with specialised courses in motor learning, exercise physiology, sport psychology and pedagogy for physical education. Typical modules include:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology: structure and function of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems relevant to movement and exercise.
• Exercise Physiology: metabolic responses to exercise, assessment of fitness and training principles.
• Biomechanics and Motor Control: mechanical analysis of movement and foundations of motor learning and skill acquisition.
• Sport Psychology: motivation, group dynamics, and psychological strategies for performance and well‑being.
• Pedagogy and Curriculum in Physical Education: instructional methods, lesson planning, assessment, and classroom management for K–12 settings.
• Adapted Physical Education: strategies for inclusion and modification to meet diverse learner needs.
• Strength and Conditioning/Coaching Principles: practical coaching techniques, programme design and athlete development.
• Nutrition for Physical Performance: basic nutrition applied to exercise, health and sport.
• Research Methods and Statistics: introductory research design, data analysis and application to practice.
• Practicum and Student Teaching: supervised field experiences in school and community settings, culminating in a capstone teaching or internship placement.

Students follow a curriculum that blends general education, major coursework and practicum hours. Those pursuing teacher certification complete additional professional education courses and supervised student teaching to meet state licensure requirements. Laboratory classes, performance assessments and community partnerships provide frequent hands‑on learning.

Entry requirements

Typical entry to the bachelor’s programme requires a high school diploma or equivalent, a record of college preparatory coursework (including science and mathematics), and submission of official transcripts. Fairmont State also considers cumulative GPA and relevant extra‑curricular experience such as coaching, sport leadership or volunteer work.

• Completion of secondary education with satisfactory grades in relevant subjects (biology, mathematics and physical education recommended).
• Official high school or college transcripts.
• Some applicants supply a personal statement or references outlining interest and experience in sport, fitness or education.
• For the teacher education track: admission to the university’s Teacher Education programme is required before student teaching; this typically involves additional forms, background checks and demonstration of basic skills or clearance in line with state regulations.

Standardised test requirements may be optional or subject to institutional policy; applicants should consult Fairmont State’s admissions office for current guidance. International applicants must meet English language proficiency and credential evaluation requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles in education, sport, fitness and allied health. Common career paths include:

• Physical education teacher at elementary or secondary schools (with state certification where required).
• School or club coach and athletic director roles within interscholastic or collegiate sport programmes.
• Strength and conditioning coach, personal trainer or performance coach in private and commercial settings.
• Fitness and wellness coordinator, recreation manager or community sport programmer.
• Support roles in clinical or rehabilitative settings such as exercise technician or assistant in cardiac/pulmonary rehabilitation.
• Progression to graduate professional programmes in physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, exercise physiology or sport science.

Practical placements and internships arranged through the programme help graduates build professional networks and meet certification or credentialing requirements needed in many of these careers.

Why study at Fairmont State University

Fairmont State offers a focused, applied environment with relatively small class sizes that allow close faculty mentorship. The university emphasises hands‑on learning through well‑equipped laboratories, practicum placements in local schools and partnerships with community fitness and health organisations.

• Faculty with experience in teaching, coaching and applied research who supervise student projects and practicums.
• Opportunities to work with NCAA Division II athletics and local school districts for coaching and practical experience.
• A curriculum designed to prepare students for state teaching certification or direct entry into fitness and allied health professions, with clear advising for those aiming at graduate study.
• Access to campus fitness and lab facilities where students practise assessment, programme design and applied intervention techniques.

Together, these features make Fairmont State a practical choice for students seeking an undergraduate education that balances scientific foundations with real‑world application in sport, kinesiology and physical education.