The fitness and wellness industry continues to experience remarkable growth, driven by increasing awareness of the health benefits of physical activity and the rising demand for qualified exercise professionals. A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Exercise Science provides the scientific foundation and practical skills needed to launch a rewarding career helping others achieve their health and fitness goals.
What to Expect in an Exercise Science Bachelors Program
The key to success lies in selecting an accredited program that aligns with your career goals, taking advantage of hands-on learning opportunities, and pursuing relevant professional certifications.
What is Exercise Science?
Exercise science is the comprehensive study of how the human body responds to physical exercise and activity. This multidisciplinary field draws from various scientific areas including:
- Anatomy and Physiology – Understanding how body systems function
- Biomechanics – Analyzing human movement patterns
- Exercise Physiology – Studying physiological responses to exercise
- Nutrition – Examining the role of diet in performance and health
- Psychology – Understanding behavioral aspects of fitness and motivation
- Kinesiology – Focusing on the mechanics of body movement
Students explore the science behind human movement, learning to assess fitness levels, design evidence-based exercise programs, and apply coaching methodologies to help diverse populations improve their health and performance.
Core Curriculum Areas
Foundational Sciences (25-30% of coursework):
- General Biology I & II with laboratory components
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- General Chemistry with laboratory
- College Physics
- Statistics and research methods
Exercise Science Specialization (40-50% of coursework):
- Exercise Physiology I & II
- Biomechanics and Kinesiology
- Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription
- Strength and Conditioning methods
- Exercise Testing for various populations
- Clinical Exercise Physiology
- Nutrition for Fitness and Sport
- Care and Prevention of Exercise-Related Injuries
Professional Development (15-20% of coursework):
- Research Methods in Exercise Science
- Wellness Programming and Administration
- Professional Communication and Ethics
- Practicum and Internship experiences
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
Most exercise science programs emphasize experiential learning through:
- Laboratory courses using state-of-the-art equipment for fitness testing and movement analysis
- Internships providing real-world experience in fitness centers, hospitals, or sports facilities
- Capstone projects allowing students to design and implement exercise interventions
- Research opportunities working alongside faculty on exercise science studies
Program Concentrations
Many programs offer specialized tracks to align with career goals:
- Strength and Conditioning: Focuses on athletic performance enhancement and preparation for NSCA certifications
- Health and Fitness: Emphasizes wellness programming and preparation for ACSM certifications
- Clinical/Pre-Professional: Designed for students planning graduate studies in physical therapy, athletic training, or medicine
- Wellness Management: Concentrates on corporate wellness and health promotion programs
Career Opportunities and Outcomes
Entry-Level Career Paths
Graduates are prepared for diverse career opportunities including:
- Exercise Physiologist (Median salary: $51,350-$54,860)
- Personal Trainer/Fitness Instructor (Median salary: $40,390)
- Strength and Conditioning Coach (Median salary: $40,400)
- Wellness Director/Coordinator (Median salary: $57,800)
- Health Coach (Median salary: $46,800)
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
- Corporate Wellness Coordinator
- Fitness Center Manager
Professional Certifications
Exercise science programs prepare students for nationally recognized certifications:
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM): Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C), Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP)
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA): Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
- American Council on Exercise (ACE): Various specialty certifications
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM): Performance Enhancement and Corrective Exercise specializations
Graduate School Preparation
The degree provides excellent preparation for advanced studies in:
- Physical Therapy (DPT programs)
- Athletic Training (Master’s programs)
- Occupational Therapy
- Exercise Science/Exercise Physiology (MS/PhD)
- Sports Medicine
- Physician Assistant programs
Admissions Requirements
General Prerequisites
Academic Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum cumulative GPA typically 2.5-3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Completion of prerequisite courses in mathematics and sciences
Standardized Testing:
- Many programs no longer require SAT/ACT scores
- Some may require placement testing for mathematics
Prerequisites (commonly required):
- College Algebra or higher mathematics
- General Biology with laboratory
- General Chemistry with laboratory
- General Psychology
- Basic computer literacy
Program-Specific Admission Requirements
Many exercise science programs use selective admission processes for upper-division coursework:
Academic Thresholds:
- Completion of 30-60 credit hours
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0 in prerequisite courses
- Successful completion of foundational science courses with grades of “C” or better
Additional Requirements:
- Health clearance and physical examination
- Current CPR/AED certification
- Background checks for clinical placements
- Immunization records
- Professional behavior assessments
Application Materials:
- Personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume highlighting relevant experience
- Interview (for some competitive programs)
Program Costs
Tuition Ranges by Institution Type
Public Universities (In-State):
- Cost per credit hour: $250-$450
- Total program cost: $30,000-$54,000
Public Universities (Out-of-State):
- Cost per credit hour: $800-$1,200
- Total program cost: $96,000-$144,000
Private Universities:
- Cost per credit hour: $400-$650
- Total program cost: $48,000-$78,000
Online Programs:
- Cost per credit hour: $300-$500
- Total program cost: $36,000-$60,000
Additional Expenses
Students should budget for:
- Laboratory fees: $50-$200 per semester
- Professional liability insurance: $15-$50 annually
- Uniforms and equipment: $100-$300
- Certification exam fees: $280-$400 per exam
- Clinical site requirements: Background checks ($50-$150), drug screening ($40-$75)
- Professional organization memberships: $50-$100 annually
Accreditation and Program Recognition
When selecting a program, look for:
Institutional Accreditation:
- Regional accreditation (SACSCOC, HLC, etc.)
Programmatic Accreditation:
- CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) – Exercise science programs
- CoAES (Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences) – Specialized exercise science accreditation
Professional Recognition:
- NSCA Education Recognition Program (ERP) – Recognizes quality strength and conditioning curricula
- ACSM Academic Program Recognition – Validates exercise science educational standards
Current Industry Trends and Job Market
Growing Employment Opportunities
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in exercise science-related careers:
- Exercise Physiologists: 10% growth (2022-2032)
- Fitness Trainers and Instructors: 14% growth (2022-2032)
- Athletic Trainers: 19% growth (projected through 2028)
Industry Drivers
Several factors contribute to increasing demand:
- Aging population requiring specialized fitness programming
- Corporate wellness programs addressing healthcare costs
- Youth sports participation driving demand for qualified coaches
- Chronic disease prevention emphasizing exercise as medicine
- Technology integration creating new service delivery models
Emerging Career Areas
New opportunities include:
- Tactical fitness for military and first responders
- Virtual fitness coaching and remote programming
- Corrective exercise specialization for injury prevention
- Youth fitness programming and development
- Medical fitness in healthcare settings
Top Schools
As demand for health, fitness, and human performance professionals continues to grow, universities across the country are offering robust Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science programs to meet industry needs. Whether you’re pursuing a career in strength and conditioning, wellness coaching, physical therapy, or sports performance, these programs combine scientific rigor, hands-on experience, and flexible learning options to help you succeed.
From fully online degrees with accelerated pathways to campus-based programs with state-of-the-art lab facilities, the following schools offer diverse opportunities tailored to both aspiring professionals and those looking to advance in the field. Each featured institution brings a unique perspective—be it faith-based education, research-driven training, or career-aligned certification prep—ensuring that students can find the right fit for their goals and lifestyle.
| University | Location | Program Length & Tuition | Format | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryville University | St. Louis, MO | 120 credits; Tuition varies; Early graduate credits option | 100% Online | 400-hour practicum at student’s location; NSCA Education Recognition Program |
| Franklin University | Columbus, OH | 120 credits; $398/credit; Tuition Guarantee | 100% Online | Flexible 6- & 12-week courses; high transfer credit acceptance; ACSM-aligned curriculum |
| Abilene Christian University | Abilene, TX | 120 credits; $395/credit + $300/term resource fee | 100% Online | Faith-based; emphasizes community health; evidence-based health and fitness education |
| United States Sports Academy | Online/Various | 120 credits; Affordable with textbooks included | 100% Online | SACSCOC accredited; NSCA recognition; mentorship & practical internships |
| Methodist University | Fayetteville, NC | 124 credits; $435/credit | 100% Online | Small classes; hands-on biomechanics & sport psychology; avg salary ~$64,000 |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | 120 credits; $8,250/semester (campus) | Online & Campus options | NSCA recognized; Sports Performance concentration; prepares for CSCS® certification |
| University of Michigan-Flint | Flint, MI | 120 credits; Tuition varies | Online & On-campus | Research-driven; accelerated 3-year option; strong grad school pathways |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA | 120 credits; Transfer up to 75% credits | Residential & Online | State-of-the-art labs; 96% ACSM EP-C pass rate; fitness & therapeutic tracks |
| Bryan University | Tempe, AZ | 120 credits; Tuition includes certifications & support | 100% Online | Accelerated 8-week courses; NSCA CSCS prep; career-focused with industry credentials |
| UNC Charlotte | Charlotte, NC | 120 credits; Selective admission; GPA 2.5+ required | Mostly Online | 3 concentrations; Accredited by CASCE & CAAHEP; rigorous clinical internships and credential prep |
Maryville University
https://online.maryville.edu/online-bachelors-degrees/exercise-science/
St. Louis, MO
Program Overview
Maryville University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science that emphasizes flexibility and career preparation. Students can choose from two concentrations—Wellness Management or Strength and Conditioning—and engage in a 400-hour practicum at a location of their choice. The program includes a capstone project and is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) through its Education Recognition Program. The curriculum covers core topics such as human movement, nutrition, exercise program design, counseling, and sport management. No SAT/ACT is required to apply, and students benefit from comprehensive support throughout the program.
Tuition and Outcomes
Maryville University’s online program is designed to support learners in pursuing a career in fitness, wellness, and tactical strength and conditioning. Students can access coursework entirely online and explore financial aid and transfer credit opportunities. With an early access option allowing students to earn up to 12 graduate-level credits, this degree prepares graduates for diverse roles, including training military service members. The curriculum aligns with trends in fitness technology and corporate wellness, helping graduates prepare for careers in a growing and evolving industry.
Franklin University
https://www.franklin.edu/degrees/bachelors/exercise-science
Columbus, OH
Program Overview
Franklin University’s 100% online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science includes 120 credit hours and flexible 6- and 12-week course formats. The curriculum is aligned with the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and includes instruction on exercise for general populations, children, the elderly, and individuals with special health conditions. Topics include resistance training, plyometrics, speed, agility, and endurance programs. Students typically transfer in 67 credits on average, significantly shortening time to completion.
Tuition and Outcomes
Tuition is $398 per credit, and the program features a Tuition Guarantee that locks in tuition rates from enrollment through graduation. With up to 90 transfer credits accepted, students can complete the program in as little as 20 months. Graduates are prepared to design fitness programs and implement coaching methodologies, helping clients achieve fitness goals across a wide range of settings including clinical, corporate, and community health environments.
Abilene Christian University (ACU)
https://acu.edu/academics/online/undergraduate/bachelor-of-science-in-exercise-science/
Abilene, TX
Program Overview
ACU’s online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science combines scientific rigor with a faith-based learning environment. The 120-credit-hour program includes 64 hours in the major and up to 17 elective hours, with coursework spanning kinesiology, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and leadership. Students receive instruction on how the body moves and responds to exercise, with an emphasis on creating effective fitness plans for varied populations.
Tuition and Outcomes
Tuition is $395 per credit hour, plus a $300 resource fee per term. The program prepares graduates for careers such as fitness trainer, wellness coordinator, or sports scout, and serves as a foundation for advanced study in allied health. ACU’s Christ-centered approach encourages students to support healthier communities through evidence-based health and fitness education.
United States Sports Academy (USSA)
https://ussa.edu/academics/bachelors/exercise-science
Daphne, AL
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Sports Science (B.S.S.) in Exercise Science from the United States Sports Academy offers a broad education in physical fitness, human movement, and sport performance. The program is designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the fitness and sports industries or for advanced graduate studies in fields like physical therapy or athletic training.
Tuition and Outcomes
The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and recognized by the NSCA. Students benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty and gain practical training through internships and research opportunities. With no required residency and textbooks included, USSA offers an affordable path to careers in exercise science, sports performance, and strength and conditioning.
Methodist University
https://online.methodist.edu/programs/bs-bachelors-exercise-sport-science/
Fayetteville, NC
Program Overview
Methodist University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Exercise & Sport Science consisting of 124 credit hours, which can be completed in 2.5 to 4 years. The program includes small class sizes and hands-on coursework in subjects like biomechanics, nutrition, physiology of exercise, and sport psychology. Students can transfer previous credits and benefit from an easy application process with no fee.
Tuition and Outcomes
Tuition is $435 per credit hour, making this program competitively priced. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in fitness training, occupational therapy, sports psychology, and ergonomics. The program focuses on real-world skill development through an interactive online platform, and graduates typically see career outcomes with an average salary of around $64,000 annually.
Grand Canyon University (GCU)
https://www.gcu.edu/degree-programs/bachelor-science-exercise-science-sports-performance
Phoenix, AZ
Program Overview
Grand Canyon University offers a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a concentration in Sports Performance. This 120-credit program focuses on biomechanics, exercise physiology, strength training, and nutrition, along with specialized coursework in sports performance. Students can tailor their education through electives in business, communication, or sport management, and complete a capstone project to demonstrate mastery.
Tuition and Outcomes
GCU’s tuition is $8,250 per semester for campus study, with transfer credit options up to 90 credits (84 of which may be lower-division). The program is recognized by the NSCA through its Education Recognition Program, positioning graduates to pursue certifications like the CSCS®. Graduates are prepared for roles in high school, college, and professional sports or for graduate studies in related health fields.
University of Michigan-Flint
https://www.umflint.edu/chs/exercise-science/
Flint, MI
A Science-Driven Approach to Fitness and Health Careers
The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at the University of Michigan-Flint offers both a traditional four-year and accelerated three-year format with flexible course delivery options, including face-to-face and online formats. This program emphasizes a research-informed curriculum, fieldwork, and internships to help students earn national certifications such as the Exercise Physiologist and Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Tuition varies based on residency and enrollment status, but the program provides a strong return on investment by preparing students for growing health and fitness careers like cardiac rehabilitation therapist, fitness center manager, and personal trainer.
Pathway to Advanced Healthcare Professions
Graduates are well-positioned to pursue competitive graduate programs in fields like physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, and athletic training. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth rates of 9% for exercise physiologists, 14% for occupational therapists, and 28% for physician assistants—making this degree a strategic choice for students focused on health and human performance careers. Median salaries in these professions range from $85,570 to $121,530 annually, highlighting the program’s potential to lead to high-earning opportunities.
Liberty University
https://www.liberty.edu/residential/health-sciences/bachelors/exercise-science/
Lynchburg, VA
Accredited Training for Exercise Science Professionals
Liberty University’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science is a 120-credit hour residential program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Students can transfer in up to 75% of credits and choose between two specialized tracks: fitness or therapeutic science. With an impressive 96% pass rate for the ACSM EP-C exam—significantly above the national average—the program combines rigorous academics with practical experience in state-of-the-art labs and internship settings, preparing students for a wide variety of careers in health, fitness, and athletic performance.
Leading with Technology and Expertise
Students benefit from faculty who bring real-world expertise and continue to work in the field, enriching classroom learning with current industry practices. Laboratory experiences are conducted in high-tech facilities such as the Human Performance Lab and Biomechanics and Motion Analysis Lab. Graduates are prepared for certification exams like the ACSM EP-C and NSCA CSCS and can pursue roles such as athletic trainer, physical therapist, or fitness professional. With Liberty’s commitment to hands-on training and mentorship, students graduate with a strong foundation in exercise science and a competitive edge in the job market.
Bryan University
A Fully Online Degree with a Career-Focused Edge
Bryan University’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Nutrition Management is a 100% online, 120-credit program designed to prepare students for the rapidly growing health and fitness industry. With flexible course schedules—two classes at a time in eight-week blocks—students can fast-track their education without waitlists. The program includes industry-recognized certifications, academic support, and career services, all covered under the cost of tuition. Students gain specialized training in personal training, nutrition coaching, strength and conditioning, and gym management.
Real-World Readiness and Industry Credentials
This career-oriented degree prepares graduates for diverse roles such as certified personal trainer, sports performance coach, group fitness instructor, and fitness studio owner. Students also have the opportunity to sit for the NSCA CSCS certification, among others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for fitness trainers and instructors is expected to grow by 9% or more through 2033, making this an opportune time to enter the field. Bryan’s emphasis on practical skills, industry engagement, and accelerated learning paths helps students launch successful, fulfilling careers in health and fitness.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
https://aphcs.charlotte.edu/academic-degrees-and-programs/undergraduate-degrees/bachelor-science-exercise-science/
Charlotte, NC
Specialized Paths with Accreditation and Clinical Experience
UNC Charlotte offers a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with three concentrations: Strength and Conditioning, Health and Fitness, and Pre-Professional. Each pathway is tailored to meet specific career goals, from direct employment in the fitness industry to preparation for advanced graduate studies. The program includes rigorous coursework, hands-on internships, and credential preparation for national exams like the NSCA CSCS and ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist. Accreditation from CASCE and CAAHEP ensures the program meets top standards in academic and professional quality.
A Selective and Comprehensive Health Science Education
Admission to the upper-division major is selective, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.5 and completion of prerequisite courses. Students in the Strength and Conditioning track complete 25 credit hours of specialized coursework and a supervised internship. The Health and Fitness track includes 19 credits and also culminates in a professional internship.
Meanwhile, the Pre-Professional track offers flexibility for those planning dual majors or graduate school. With career projections for exercise science professionals on the rise, UNC Charlotte’s comprehensive and accredited program positions students for success in both employment and continued education.
How Long to Pay Off Your Degree?
The average tuition for an online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science is approximately $22,000, while the average starting salary for graduates in this field is around $45,000 annually. Understanding how long it may take to repay student loans based on different portions of your income can help you plan your financial future effectively.
- If you dedicate 5% of your starting salary (about $2,250 per year) to loan repayment, it would take nearly 10 years to pay off the tuition.
- At 10% repayment ($4,500 per year), you could pay off the loans in roughly 5 years.
- Allocating 15% ($6,750 per year) shortens the payoff period to around 3 years.
- And if you commit 20% ($9,000 per year), you might clear your student debt in just about 2 to 2.5 years.
These estimates do not account for interest, but they provide a useful framework for budgeting and financial planning. By choosing a program that fits your career goals and carefully managing repayment, you can invest wisely in your education and secure a solid foundation for your future in exercise science.