Exercise Science Program Earns CASCE Accreditation

The University of Jamestown Exercise Science – Strength and Conditioning, B.S. program, part of the Foss School of Kinesiology, Sport Science, and Physical Therapy, has achieved full accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE).  

This recognition places UJ among only two institutions in the state meeting the highest professional standards in strength and conditioning education. Accreditation becomes a national requirement for the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification by 2030. 

“This new program, and now its accreditation, has been in the works for years. It’s especially exciting to now see it ready for our students,” said Chris Mahoney, Associate Professor and Kinesiology Chair. 

The program’s first graduates, Arin Oster and Cody Pellaton, are set to graduate in May 2026. Both students have already secured full-time positions in the field, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for career success. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here and the support from faculty. This program gave me the tools I needed to excel, and I feel like I’ve come out ahead of graduates from many other programs,” said Oster. 

Preparing Students for a Growing Industry 

With CASCE accreditation, students in the Exercise Science – Strength and Conditioning program are now eligible to sit for the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) exam. This credential is critical for professionals pursuing careers in athletic performance, injury prevention, and fitness program development. 

“This accreditation is a significant step forward for our students,” said Nicole Hochhalter, MS, RDN, CSCS, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at the University of Jamestown. “It provides our students with the opportunity to remain competitive in the evolving strength and conditioning field, while ensuring they are well prepared both academically and professionally. I am forever grateful for my colleague, Marla Walter, M.S., Assistant Professor, who worked alongside me and shared the same vision for achieving accreditation.” 

The program is one of three exercise science tracks in the Foss School, which include Pre-Physical Therapy, Strength and Conditioning, and Kinesiology. All programs prepare students for success in a variety of fields. Graduates pursue advanced degrees in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Athletic Training, Clinical Exercise Physiology and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS). 

According to the NSCA, professionals in strength and conditioning enjoy competitive salaries, with early-career specialists earning between $60,500 and $84,600 annually, and experienced professionals earning six figures or more depending on professional experience, work setting, and education level. 

“Our program’s accreditation demonstrates our commitment to providing a top-tier education that prepares students for real-world success,” Hochhalter added. “With hands-on training, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and the opportunity to work directly with NCAA Division II athletes under CSCS-certified staff, including Coach Ryder Weischedel and Kolby Bartlett, our students gain invaluable applied experience. Combined with a curriculum aligned with CASCE standards, we’re preparing our graduates to become versatile and competitive strength and conditioning professionals.” 

University of Jamestown is accepting applications for its Exercise Science – Strength and Conditioning, B.S. program for the Fall 2026 semester. Students interested in pursuing careers in strength and conditioning, athletic training, or fitness optimization are encouraged to apply.