UNM’s Exercise Science program will keep working out, and onward. 

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) has awarded initial accreditation to the College of Education & Human Sciences’s (COEHS) Exercise Science program, including its Strength and Conditioning add-on. 

CAAHEP accreditation requires a tough, in-depth evaluation, meaning the Exercise Science program has met incredibly high standards, including continuous quality improvement in the education of health-related professions. 

Exercise Science Associate Professor Fabiano Amorim says all standards were not only met, but hit maximum scoring. That does not mean, he says, that COEHS will stop striving for a perfect education standard.

“This is a significant achievement for the ES program and proof of the hard work and dedication of the faculty, staff, and students,” Amorim said. "I would like to thank the entire faculty, staff, and students for their hard work and dedication in achieving this significant milestone. I would also like to thank the Associate Provost, Dean, and Department Chair for their continued support of the program."

COEHS Interim Dean Kristopher Goodrich says this accreditation will also give back to New Mexico.

This new accreditation for the Exercise Science program in the college acknowledges the truly excellent preparation and training that allied healthcare professionals receive here,” Goodrich said. “New Mexicans benefit from the graduates of exercise science who go on to careers in athletic training, health education, physical therapy, and other allied health careers.”

The accreditation standards are established by CAAHEP as well as the American College of Sports Medicine, American Council on Exercise, American Kinesiotherapy Association, American Red Cross, National Academy of Sports Medicine, and National Council on Strength & Fitness. 

“We believe that the accreditation will bring benefits to our program, including increased recognition and prestige for future students and the community in general, and enhanced opportunities for our students,” Amorim said.

The next evaluation of the program is scheduled to occur no later than 2028. In the meantime, students, faculty and staff can be confident this program is at the top of its game.

Check out ongoing research and initiatives from the Exercise Science Program in the Department of Health, Exercise & Sports Sciences.