Madonna University's Exercise and Sport Science program goes beyond traditional fitness training. We emphasize a holistic approach to health and wellness, aligned with our core Franciscan values of care, compassion, and service. Our graduates are not only highly sought-after by employers across various sectors, but they are also equipped to make a real difference in the lives of others and contribute to a healthier and more active society.
Jobs in the fitness trainer and instructor field alone in 2022.
This program curriculum is designed to equip you with a comprehensive skillset, including:
Apply today and join our supportive learning community with dedicated faculty members who will guide you in your academic and professional journeys.
Gain experience investigating current nutritional issues related to fad diets, obesity, aging, athletic performance, food sustainability and motivating clients to make change.
If you’ve dreamed of having fun while working, major in Sport Management at Madonna. Starting with your introductory courses, you can expect hands-on and challenging assignments that expose you to the inner workings of the industry. As a graduate, you will have had the necessary coursework, experiential opportunities, and networking to start in this dynamic industry.
As an Aging Studies student, you will be prepared to address the growing and evolving concerns of an aging population. Gain skills, promote positive aging, and help older adults retain their health and well-being so they can achieve their highest potential.
Program Director
B.S. Aquinas College
M.A. University of South Florida
jtremble@madonna.edu
734.432.5807, 2228G
Joanna Tremble joined the Madonna University faculty in Fall of 2023 as the Director of Physical Education & Health and Exercise & Sport Science. Originally from Brighton, Michigan, she completed her master’s in physical education from the University of South Florida and a dual bachelor’s degree from Aquinas College (MI). Professor Tremble has ten years of higher education teaching experience and is passionate about empowering future physical activity and wellness professionals. Her areas of research interest include quality physical education, physical literacy, and physical and health education policy. She is currently completing her Doctor of Education at Florida Southern College.
Previously, Professor Tremble worked as an Assistant Professor of Physical Education at Newberry College in South Carolina, an adjunct professor at Florida Southern College, and a public K-12 educator in Florida. While in SC, she served as the Advocacy Chair for the South Carolina Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance’s advocacy committee, and continues to be actively engaged in local, state, and federal education advocacy. After the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, she also served as the higher education advisor for the South Carolina Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance’s School Reentry Guidelines and Recommendations. Professor Tremble is a current member of SHAPE America, SHAPE Michigan, and SHAPE Florida.
B.S. Bethel University
M.S. Wayne State University
M.A. Eastern Michigan University
734-432-5807, 2228E
Kathryn received her undergraduate degree from Bethel University in Physical Education. She holds a Master’s Degree from Wayne State University in Sports Administration and a Master’s Degree from Eastern Michigan in Elementary Education. Before joining Madonna University, Kathryn taught in the K-12 setting for 27 years. Her passion is to prepare teachers and others to promote fitness and health to all ages.
Kathryn is currently an Assistant Professor and Director of the Physical Education and Exercise and Sport Sciences Programs where she has taught for the past 10 years. She has served on several committees at the State and local levels, and has participated in the writing of current physical education and health standards for the State of Michigan.
B.S. University of Michigan – Flint
M.S. Oakland University
Ed.S. Oakland University
Ph.D. Oakland University
sasharma@madonna.edu
734-432-5785, 2230D
Dr. Sue Ann Sharma is the Interim Dean of the College of Education and Human Development at Madonna University. Previously she served as the Graduate Education Chair for the Education Division of the College of Education and Human Development. Her career in higher education was preceded by extensive leadership experience in education at school and central office levels. Additionally, she has state-level leadership as the President of Michigan Reading Association.
Passionate about educational excellence, Dr. Sharma is dedicated to preparing teachers to address the diverse needs of learners. Her commitment extends to developing instructional literacy leaders, contributing to the future of education. As an advocate for literacy, she has actively served on the International Reading Association's Literacy Reform Task Force and Michigan Reading Association Board of Directors.
Sharma's academic pursuits focus on early childhood education, culturally responsive pedagogies, digital curation, and online teaching and learning. Through her research, she aims to advance knowledge in these critical areas, contributing to the ongoing evolution of effective educational practices. A respected figure in academia, Dr. Sue Ann Sharma continues to inspire and shape the educational landscape, leaving an indelible mark through her leadership, research, and commitment to fostering excellence in teaching and learning.
