by Abby Totten, Student Public Relations Writer
Cedarville University’s exercise science program received program accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) in November 2022 — four years before all exercise science programs are required to receive the endorsement.
CAAHEP is the leading accrediting body for health sciences and health professions education in the United States.
Cedarville’s exercise science program, established in 2003, has experienced significant student growth and stellar accomplishments since its beginning. According to a 2021 career services survey, the program had a 100% career placement rate. The placement rate includes recent graduates who are employed or attending graduate school.
“Cedarville uses the word ‘excellence’ when referring to our academic programs, and being accredited is affirmation that our program is excellent,” said Dr. April Crommett, associate professor of exercise science and director of the exercise science program. “This means our faculty are preparing our graduates well.”
Crommett took the initiative in leading Cedarville in its voluntary accreditation process.
Through the accreditation process, Crommett and faculty provided accreditors detailed curriculum information, information about knowledge, skills and abilities taught in required courses. An advisory board, made up of alumni and industry leaders, was established as part of the process and will provide ongoing support for this newly accredited program. “This accreditation, in the long run, will benefit our students,” added Crommett. “It will help them as they pursue work after graduation because those who are looking to hire will see that our exercise science program has the ‘stamp of approval’ from the governing organization.”
Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 5,082 undergraduate, graduate, and dual enrolled high school students in more than 175 areas of study. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is one of the largest private universities in Ohio, recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, high graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings, and the #4 national ranking by the Wall Street Journal for student engagement. For more information about the University, visit www.cedarville.edu.