It is recommended that students meet with their academic advisor one to two semesters prior to applying in order to review admission requirements. Students will be notified of their admission status by mid-April/November, at which time, if the applicant is accepted into the major, a faculty mentor will be assigned. Students should plan to schedule an appointment with their academic advisor upon acceptance in the major to develop a curriculum plan.
To be considered for admission, the application packet must be complete and contain the following items, for clarity around any of these items, see below, or contact your advisor:
Submit all application materials at one time, including transcript(s).
Clearly, strong recommendations are especially important. At least one coming from a professor of a science-based course that the applicant has taken at Gardner-Webb University. The second may be completed by persons who are familiar with the exercise science program at GWU, who know the faculty in the program, or who are members of one of the many organizations associated with exercise science and sports medicine are especially encouraged. Completed forms from family members will not be accepted.
Applicants must provide a Statement of Professional Goals with a clear statement of intent, which should indicate the chosen track (Health Fitness, Health Science, or Pre-Professional). Applicants should describe their academic, professional, and occupational goals and specific interests, and explain why they are interested in health fitness or pre-professional studies. Factors that point to a strong commitment to exercise science, as well as any extenuating factors that should be considered regarding the application should also be included. Describe characteristics that will make you successful in the field of exercise science. Goal statements are rated on content and presentation. Typographical errors and poor grammar will reduce the strength of the statement.
If you are currently enrolled in the prerequisite or will complete the prerequisite prior to beginning the program, you may apply. In such cases, only provisional acceptance will be extended and full admission will occur if provisional stipulations are met (e.g., GPA, grade in prerequisite to be completed).
Current enrollment and/or completion of the following courses with a grade of “C” or higher is required:
