Interested in a future that benefits people of all ages over their lifetime? Students like yourself with a love for exercise and science-based innovation are looking at the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Exercise Science degree. The more they investigate, the more they see the B.S. in Exercise Science provides the knowledge and skills to meet many different positions in the healthcare and fitness industries.
The field of exercise science explores how humans move and the biomechanics that affects health and well-being.
A bachelor’s in exercise science is a comprehensive degree program that focuses on the anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology of human movement. Kinesiology refers to the physiological, anatomical, biomechanical, and neuropsychological principles and mechanisms of human movement. Exercise science studies the applications these factors have in exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation.
First of all, expect that a program leading to a strong career will include an equal focus on workforce readiness and practical clinical or laboratory skills.
In its most practical setup, majoring in exercise science leads to skills and knowledge relating to
The curriculum of a B.S. in Exercise Science degree includes understanding and instruction in many areas:
Components of a B.S. in Exercise Science program vary, and the field encompasses many different roles. That’s why it’s wise to talk with an academic advisor or program coordinator about their program setup.
In addition to the quality of the coursework, you’ll want to ask about the degree program’s flexibility.
You’ll find some exercise science degree programs have a narrow focus or can’t accommodate a specific emphasis within this emerging field.
Some universities adjust to this by including great flexibility in the elective courses that are part of the program, independent study options, and internships that are part of the total credit hours.
In general, expect to gain deep knowledge in these significant areas:
Anatomy – Learning and understanding the human body’s structures and how different parts contribute to how the human body works.
Physiology – Learning how different organs and systems interact with each other to keep the body capable of doing what people want it to.
Kinesiology – This specific “movement science” contributes to identifying inconsistencies or obstacles in desired human performance and knowing the best options to overcome them.
Nutrition – Another essential factor in optimum human performance is nutrition. Imagine learning how to create diets that address certain conditions, including changing dietary needs as the body ages.
Management – The broad scope of a bachelor’s degree in exercise science incorporates management principles and strategies necessary for programs and initiatives to thrive as circumstances change over time.
Typical degree coursework includes topics such as
One specific role for those with an exercise science degree is as a wellness program director in a corporate setting or a manager of a health and wellness initiative for a community or state agency.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, such health education specialists have a national median salary of $60,500.
The demand for health educators and community health administrators is projected to grow 13% from 2020 to 2030, nearly twice as fast as the rate for all occupations.
Many who choose the B.S. in Exercise Science will find it ideal for graduate school options, including medical or chiropractic school or continuing to become an exercise physiologist involved in research or clinical environments.
Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) is a private, nonprofit, chiropractic and health sciences university in Overland Park, Kansas, a major suburb of Kansas City. CUKC offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Exercise Science that can be completed in three years using a year-round schedule and focused 8-week courses.
In addition to the core academic courses, this degree program offers CUKC students the flexibility to take a highly-individualized selection of elective courses. Academic advisors will help students arrange classes based on educational and professional goals, independent study options, individual research projects in our on-campus human performance lab, and clinical education experiences.
Our exercise science degree program’s depth provides excellent preparation for students interested in medicine, chiropractic, physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, coaching, and other health and fitness-related professions.
CUKC graduates also earn the designation of a Certified Personal Trainer by the American College of Sports Medicine. The ACSM represents 70 occupations within the sports medicine field.
To learn more, connect with a CUKC admissions adviser here. You can learn about the degree and career possibilities with this free eBook: Your Guide to an Exercise Science Degree.