Wheeling University Exercise Science Program Earns CAAHEP Accreditation

December 8, 2025

Wheeling University Exercise Science Program Earns CAAHEP Accreditation

WHEELING, W.Va., December 8 - The Wheeling University Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science program has received full accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Following a recent site visit by members of its team to review all aspects of the Exercise Science program, CAAHEP awarded a five-year accreditation to the program.

"This prestigious accreditation underscores Wheeling University's commitment to providing high-quality education and training that meets the national quality assurance standards established by CAAHEP," the accreditation board explained.

According to Dr. Melissa Bozovich, chair of the Athletic Training and Exercise Science programs, Exercise science programs are not required to have accreditation. "Wheeling University Exercise Science program voluntarily sought accreditation to ensure that the program was achieving the benchmarks as established by the Committee on Accreditation for Exercise Science (CoAES) and CAAHEP."

She noted, the accreditation process consisted of a comprehensive written self-study that was submitted to CoAES, as well as a site visit from a review team.

Bozovich said, "The review team visited campus for two days in September and met with students, faculty, administrators and other stakeholders. They inspected our department's classrooms and laboratories, as well as other areas on campus. Following the site visit, the review team submitted their findings and recommendation to the CoAES board, which made the recommendation to CAAHEP to grant full accreditation with no areas of non-compliance identified."

Dr. J. Lance Tarr, associate professor of Exercise Science and program lead, said, "CAAHEP Accreditation is the "Gold Standard" for allied health programs across a broad spectrum, inclusive of Exercise Science and Exercise Physiology programs. This accreditation assists in ensuring on-going quality in the program, enhances credibility and helps improve career prospects, as well as graduate school acceptance, for all of our Exercise Science students."

Dr. Barry S. Eckert, president of CAAHEP, said, "Choosing a CAAHEP-accredited program is crucial for students seeking a career in allied health. It ensures that they receive an education that is both comprehensive and relevant to current industry needs, ultimately benefiting their future employers and people receiving care."

Graduates of CAAHEP-accredited programs, the organization reports, "are highly

sought after by employers. Additionally, many professional certification bodies require graduation from a CAAHEP-accredited program for eligibility to sit for certification exams-an essential step toward licensure and professional practice. Employers can trust that graduates from CAAHEP-accredited programs are well-prepared to meet the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare field. These graduates bring a strong foundation of knowledge and practical experience, enabling them to deliver high-quality care and contribute meaningfully to their communities."

Bozovich added, "Wheeling University is dedicated to fostering excellence in our Exercise Science program. We take great pride in preparing the next generation of skilled healthcare professionals."

To learn more about the Wheeling University Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science program, contact Bozovich [email protected] or visit the program's website at wheeling.edu/areas-of-study/exercise-science/

Photo caption: Shown are the faculty of the Exercise Science program. From left are: Dr. Kathy Blatt, Ryan Zelinski, Dr. Melissa Bozovich, Dr. J. Lance Tarr, Brianna Hendershot, Nathan Harshberger. Not shown is faculty member, Dr. Hannah Reichert..