USM’s Health Fitness Program Receives Accreditation
December 8, 2009
The Health Fitness program in the Department of Exercise, Health, and Sport Sciences at the University of Southern Maine recently received accreditation in the exercise sciences from the Commission on Accreditation in Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). USM’s Health Fitness program is the first of its kind in Maine, the fourth in New England, and one of only 20 programs in the country to receive this accreditation. The accreditation team cited USM’s overall facilities, required internships and practicum courses, strong academic advising and balanced faculty expertise.
CAAHEP is the largest programmatic/specialized accreditor in the health sciences field, accrediting educational programs in health science occupations across the United States and Canada.
USM’s Health Fitness program integrates scientific research, education, and practical application of exercise science to enhance and maintain physical fitness, health, and quality of life. Health Fitness students at USM teach group exercise science classes and work in the fitness center on the Gorham campus, as well as obtain practical experience in the field through internships throughout the country. These experiences prepare them for employment opportunities in fitness centers, corporate and university fitness and wellness programs, hospitals and clinics with cardiac and pulmonary specialties. For more information about the program, see http://usm.maine.edu/conhp/ehss/healthfitness.html
The University of Southern Maine (USM) offers its 10,000 plus students more than 115 areas of undergraduate and graduate study. USM°¶s location in southern Maine, a region cited as one of the most liveable in the country, offers a range of educational, cultural and recreational opportunities.
