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, Assistant Professor
B.S. Aquinas College
M.A. University of South Florida
Ed.D. Florida Southern College
jtremble@madonna.edu
734.432.5807, 2228G
Dr. Joanna Tremble is an Assistant Professor and Program Director of the Physical Education & Health and Exercise & Sport Science programs in the College of Education and Human Development at Madonna University, where she joined the faculty in 2023. Prior to joining Madonna University, she served as an Assistant Professor of Physical Education at Newberry College in South Carolina, an adjunct professor at Florida Southern College, and a K–12 physical education teacher in Florida. She earned her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Physical Education, and dual Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees in Physical Education and Health Education. Her expertise includes physical education, health education, physical literacy, teacher preparation, and curriculum development. Passionate about preparing future physical activity and wellness professionals, Dr. Tremble equips students with the knowledge and skills to promote lifelong health, wellness, and physical activity across diverse educational settings. Her scholarship and professional interests focus on quality physical education, physical literacy, teacher education, and physical and health education policy. Dr. Tremble is actively engaged in professional leadership and advocacy at the local, state, and national levels. She has served in leadership roles with the South Carolina Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, including Advocacy Chair and Higher Education Advisor for the School Reentry Guidelines and Recommendations following the COVID-19 pandemic. She continues to advance the profession through active membership in 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 Stellema is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Physical Education and Exercise and Sport Sciences programs in the College of Education and Human Development at Madonna University, where she has served on the faculty for more than 10 years. Prior to joining Madonna University, she spent 27 years as a K–12 educator. She earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physical Education from Bethel University, a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Sports Administration from Wayne State University, and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University. Her expertise includes physical education, health education, teacher preparation, and fitness promotion across the lifespan. Passionate about preparing future educators and health professionals, Kathryn equips students with the knowledge and skills to promote lifelong health, wellness, and physical activity for learners of all ages. Her scholarship and professional interests focus on physical education, health education, curriculum development, and teacher preparation. She has served on numerous state and local professional committees and contributed to the development of Michigan's K–12 Physical Education and Health Standards, advancing quality physical and health education throughout the state.
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 Dean of the College of Education and Human Development at Madonna University. Since joining Madonna University in 2017, she has held progressively advancing leadership roles, serving as Director of Early Childhood Education and Graduate Literacy Programs, Chair of Teacher Education, Interim Dean, and now Dean. Prior to higher education, she held leadership positions in K–12 education at both the school and central office levels. She earned a Ph.D. in Reading Education, an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in School Administration, and a Master of Science (M.S.) in Early Childhood Education from Oakland University, along with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education from the University of Michigan–Flint. As Dean, Dr. Sharma provides strategic leadership for academic programs, accreditation, curriculum innovation, faculty development, and partnerships with schools, community organizations, and the Michigan Department of Education. Passionate about educational excellence, she is dedicated to preparing educators and leaders to meet the diverse needs of learners while advancing innovation, scholarship, and student success. Her scholarship and professional interests focus on literacy education, culturally responsive teaching, digital curation, the ethical integration of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning, educational technology, and online pedagogy. Most recently, she has led college-wide initiatives and professional learning on the effective and ethical integration of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning, collaborating with faculty and stakeholder committees to promote responsible, innovative educational practices. An accomplished scholar, Dr. Sharma has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters, including The Reading Teacher, Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, Reading Horizons, and Journal of Media Literacy Education. She has also contributed to national literacy reform initiatives through the International Literacy Association and has served in leadership roles with the Michigan Reading Association, including President, advancing literacy education at the state and national levels.
