The mission of the Exercise Biology Program is the integrative study of physical activity and its adaptive consequences on human form and function.

Research Objectives: Faculty members of the program are expected to establish research programs examining the biological and mechanical effects of physical activity or inactivity on health and performance across the lifespan. The laboratories utilize integrative scientific approaches and techniques that span disciplines ranging from musculoskeletal biomechanics to physiology to molecular biology. In addition, the laboratories employ both animal and human models to address specific hypotheses in their research areas. The faculty publish the results of their research in high-quality scientific journals and present their work at recognized national and international conferences in the areas of their expertise.  The program members encourage the participation of undergraduate and graduate students in their research laboratories.

Educational Objectives: The program emphasizes the study of physical activity in human health and function across the lifespan. An interdisciplinary teaching approach exposes students to fundamental courses in calculus, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, physics, genetics, and anatomy and physiology. Students study the scientific basis of exercise science with a concentration in either exercise physiology, biomechanics, or applied aspects of human biology. The curriculum allows the students to take courses in biomechanics, muscle biology, metabolism, motor behavior, exercise physiology, clinical exercise physiology and neurophysiology.

Service Objectives: The program provides leadership on campus and in the community outreach programs and at national and international levels to promote the understanding of the effects of physical activity or inactivity on a healthy lifestyle. In addition, the program provides opportunities through established relations with the UCD Medical Center for clinical and practical research training for students interested in entering fields focused on human health.