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25 Best Colleges with Exercise Science Bachelor’s Programs

25 Best Colleges with Exercise Science Bachelor's Programs

Key Takeaways:

  • Featured programs, such as those from George Mason University and University of Houston, offer comprehensive training and specialization options.
  • The article lists the top exercise science and kinesiology bachelor’s programs, emphasizing how they help prepare students for health and fitness careers.
  • Programs are ranked based on cost, graduation rate, job placement, student reviews, and salary potential using reliable data sources.
  • All listed programs are accredited, making students eligible for federal financial aid and ensuring a quality education.

The best colleges with Exercise Science bachelor’s programs and kinesiology degrees offer a flexible path to work in health and fitness. A bachelor’s degree could be the perfect place to start if you’re interested in a career in exercise science and kinesiology. With an exercise science degree, you’ll gain the skills for entry-level careers in the field and the foundation to continue your studies at the master’s level for more advanced careers in areas such as physical therapy.

Primarily, Kinesiology is the study of movement, function, and performance. Exercise Science concentrates on the body’s response to movement, function, and performance. Exercise Science students study anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, and biochemistry.

Best Health Degrees has reviewed numerous bachelor’s degree programs to create this ranking that may help you in making your school decision. We looked at programs in terms of accreditation, courses offered, length of the program, admission requirements, as well as cost. All schools listed accept transfer students, however, these descriptions are the requirements for first-time students.

All the programs are accredited and you may qualify for federal student assistance. You should apply for aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®.

Our Method: Ranking the 25 Best Exercise Science Bachelor’s Programs

To rank the 25 Best Exercise Science Bachelor’s Programs, Best Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

1. George Mason University

You can earn a BS in Kinesiology degree on the Fairfax, VA campus of George Mason University. This exercise science degree program prepares you to work in wellness, corporate fitness, clinical exercise, and a host of other careers.

You’ll take 38 credit hours in general education classes (English, history, math, etc.) and 68 credit hours in kinesiology studies. Among the major courses are Human Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Methods of Exercise Instruction, Research Methods, Biomechanics, First Aid and Emergency Care, Principles of Nutrition, and more. This program also requires an internship in your junior and senior years. Admission includes first year, transfer and military options.

This 120 credit hours program holds accreditation from the American Kinesiology Association (AKA) as well as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The program is also recognized by the Education Recognition Program of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). (Note: GMU also offers a Bachelor’s/Accelerated Kinesiology Master’s degree.)

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $13,014-$37,410

Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Reports ranks GMU in its 20-21 categories of Top Public Schools, Most Innovative Schools, Best Colleges for Veterans, Best Value Schools, among others

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

2. University of Houston

You have two options in the BS Exercise Science at the University of Houston. If you’re preparing for a career in Physical Therapy or another healthcare field, you’ll want to explore the Health Profession Option. Should your career goals include Occupational Therapy, Wellness, Personal/Athletic Training, or Strength and Conditioning, the Primary Option would probably be best.

You’ll take 120 credit hours of study, including general education classes and core Kinesiology studies. Core classes, regardless of your chosen option, include Foundations of Kinesiology Studies, Biomechanics, Motor Learning and Control, Introduction to Human Nutrition, Measurement in Human Performance, Physiology of Human Performance, etc. If you choose the Primary Option, you’ll also need to choose a minor or a double major. Internship opportunities are available.

Freshman year student admission or transfer student admission both require an application (with a $75 processing fee), academic transcripts, student orientation.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $9,457-$21,673

Fast Fact: Founded in 1927, UH is ranked #106 Best Value Schools, #87 Top Public Schools, and #128 Best Colleges for Veterans by U.S. News and World Report

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

3. Florida International University

The Miami, FL-based FIU offers a BS in Physical Education: Sports and Fitness focused on kinesiology study. This degree is designed to prepare you for careers as a fitness director, corporate wellness specialist, and exercise leader.

Offered through the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, this exercise science degree requires general education courses as well as 60 credit hours upper-division courses. The curriculum includes Kinesiology, Anatomy for Exercise and Sport Science, Exercise Physiology, Evaluation in Kinesiology, Administration of Fitness Operations, Motor Learning and Development, Considerations in Youth Sport, and more. Prior to completing the program you’ll finish with a capstone internship.

First-year student admission requirements include an application, ACT/SAT scores, financial aid application, as well as residency documentation. Transfer student admission requires the same documents but FIU requests you verify your transfer credit and follow FIU’s Transfer Guides.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $6,565-$18,963

Fast Fact: Niche rates FIU #77/676 in its 2020-21 Top Public Universities in America and #95/413 in its Best Colleges for Sports Management in America

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

4. University of Kansas

If you’re wanting to pursue a healthcare-related career in exercise science, you’ll want to explore the BS in Exercise Science from the nationally ranked University of Kansas. The degree prepares you to enter health-related fields. (The school also offers an online BAS in Exercise Science.)

The exercise science degree program will give you an in-depth understanding of the human body in its prerequisites and general education classes. This curriculum includes general education core courses (English, algebra, public speaking, etc.) as well as a wealth of courses in topics such as Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Introduction to Exercise Science, Principles of Nutrition & Health, Kinesiology, Biomechanics, Physical Activity & Exercise Management for Individuals with Disabilities, and others. You’ll also choose elective classes from fields such as Healthcare Management, Psychology, Sport Management, etc.

General admission requirements for both first-year and transfer students include a KU application, application for financial aid, submission of academic transcripts, as well as test scores.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $11,166-$28,034

Fast Fact: The founder of basketball, James Naismith, taught physical education at KU beginning in 1898

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

5. University of Massachusetts Lowell

With this BS in Exercise Science degree, you have the choice of options. The program offers study in Exercise and Fitness Management or Clinical options and requires 122-123 credit hours for completion.

The Exercise and Fitness Management curriculum requires studies in Human Anatomy and Physiology, psychology, Human Nutrition, Physiological Chemistry, Biology for Scientists (STEM), Exercise Physiology, Healthcare Systems, Sport and Exercise Biomechanics, Introduction to Gerontology, etc. The Clinical pathway offers classes in Principles of Biology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Human Nutrition, Introduction to Public Health, Kinesiology, Pharmacology, and more. Some courses in both options require labs.

Admission to UMass Lowell requirements requires an application ($60 fee), SAT scores, academic transcripts, etc.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $15,698-$33,624

Fast Fact: Forbes included UMass Lowell in its 2019 America’s Best Value Colleges

Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

6. University of Central Florida

This Kinesiology B.S. Exercise and Sport Physiology degree at UCF will prepare you to enter careers in sports medicine, allied health, health promotion, and others.

You’ll begin with general education classes prior to your major coursework. Health Science classes included in this exercise science degree are Human Anatomy, Exercise Physiology Anatomy, Fundamentals of Human Nutrition, Functional Kinesiology, Basic Sport First Aid and CPR, Nutrition and Metabolism in Kinesiology, Motor Development and Learning, Exercise Prescription for Special Populations, as well as others. A capstone project completes the 120 credit hours degree.

For a first-year student, the admission process will ask for an admission application and a $30 fee, SAT/ACT scores, and an application essay. If you’re a transfer student, admission requires you to provide academic transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, an application and a $30 fee, and other documents.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $6,368-$22,467

Fast Fact: Forbes considers UCF one of America’s Best Colleges Values (2019), #48 in the South, a Top Colleges (2019), and in the top 100 in its Public Colleges categories

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

7. Tulane University

You can earn a BS in Exercise Science from this nationally known New Orleans university’s School of Professional Advancement. This degree will get you ready for a career as a physical therapy assistant, personal trainer, exercise physiologist, as well as other kinesiology-related careers.

Included in the 120-credit hour exercise science degree program are core courses as well as general education classes. Among the 40 hours of core major classes are Lifespan Motor Development, Introduction to Kinesiology, Biomechanics of Movement (with lab), Sports Medicine, Introduction to Kinesiology, Anatomy, Physiology, and others. You’ll also take either an Independent Study or participate in an internship. Classes are offered in a hybrid method with some classes offered online.

Tulane University uses an online application ($40 fee and copy of your government-issued ID), in addition to official academic transcripts, and an application for financial aid for admission. Transfer students’ admission is slightly different.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $10,368- $20,736/year

Fast Fact: Tulane University ranks in the top 100 schools in U.S. News and World Report‘s Best Value Schools, Best Colleges for Veterans, as well as Most Innovative Schools

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

8. The University of Alabama Birmingham

Through UAB’s School of Education, you can study for a BS in Kinesiology with an Exercise Science concentration.

Along with the kinesiology curriculum, you’ll take Principles in Human Physiology, Genetics, General Chemistry, Human Anatomy, Personal Health and Wellness, Applied Kinesiology, Sports Nutrition, Aerobics, Physiology of Exercise, First Aid, Biomechanics, Sports Psychology, and more for the 120 credit hours degree. You’ll be required to complete a one-semester internship, typically done in the second half of your senior year.

First-year students submit an admission application ($40 fee) and an official high school transcript, ACT/SAT scores, or PreACT/PreSAT (instead), or you can apply test-optional. Transfer admission needs an application (and a $40 fee) and official academic transcripts from all schools attended. You need a 2.0 GPA.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $8,568-$20,400

Fast Fact: Niche ranks UAB #93/676 in its Top Public Universities in America and #257/1,619 in Best Colleges in America

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

9. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

This BS in Exercise Science degree will prepare you for professional certification in a variety of careers in fitness, strength and conditioning, disease management, and more.

The curriculum includes classes in Exercise Physiology, Human Nutrition, Essentials of Strength and Conditioning, Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Aging, Prevention and Care of Athletic/Exercise Injuries. Other courses are offered in the Sociology of Sport and Physical Activity, Cancer Recovery and Fitness Lab, Pharmacotherapeutics and Pathophysiology for Allied Health Professionals, and Biology of Humans, etc. You’ll also participate in an internship and an apprenticeship if you qualify. General education classes are required for this 120-credit-hour degree.

There are basically two admission requirements for this degree. Of course, admission to the university is required, but you need to be admitted to the Exercise Science program. The Exercise Sciences Program Committee will look at your overall GPA (2.5 or higher) and completed kinesiology prerequisite courses.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $8,870-$17,145

Fast Fact: UW-Eau Claire is noted as a Best College in the Midwest by Princeton Review

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

10. Oregon State University

You can earn a BS in Kinesiology from Oregon State University which offers not only an Exercise Science degree but a Pre-Therapy and Allied Health option.

The program calls for 180 quarter credit hours of classes. This curriculum requires general education core classes as well as core kinesiology courses. Among the courses in your major are Introduction to Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics of Human Movement, Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab, Human Nutrition, Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity, and more. You’ll want to explore the coursework for the Pre-Therapy and Allied Health curriculum to determine if that option works for your career goals.

First-year students complete the online admission application (with a $65 nonrefundable fee), official high school or GED transcripts, and official ACT/SAT test scores. If you’re a transfer student, you’ll need to have at least 24 quarter credit hours to transfer, complete an application (with fee), and official academic transcripts for admission.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $11,858-$31,467

Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Report ranks OSU #71 Top Public Schools, #133 Best Value Schools, and #108 Best Colleges for Veterans

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

11. Fresno Pacific University

If you’re wanting a degree that will help you become certified in your chosen career, you’ll want to look at the BS in Kinesiology from this California university. You’ll choose from one of two emphasis areas: Exercise Physiology or Pre-Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy.

In this 120-credit hour program, you’ll study general education prerequisites in Anatomy and Physiology, chemistry, statistics, and psychology. The core courses in this major include studies in Foundations of Kinesiology, Fundamentals of Motor Behavior (and lab), Biomechanics (and lab), Physiology of Exercise (with lab), as well as an internship in kinesiology. You’ll take 18 hours specializing in your chosen emphasis. The two concentrations share some courses in nutrition, fitness assessments, sport psychology, etc.

Admission is simple, requiring an application, official academic transcripts, as well as a Free Application Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) Transfer applicants can check which previously taken courses will transfer to FPU using Transferology.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $33,452

Fast Fact: A Christian university, FPU ranks #27 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Value Schools

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

12. University of Kentucky

Offered through the UK’s College of Education, you can earn a BS in Kinesiology degree designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills to work in clinical or fitness careers.

Among the classes you’ll attend are Exercise Physiology, Nutrition and Fitness, Anatomy & Physiology, Biomechanics, Track & Field, Psychology of Physical Activity, and First Aid & CPR. You’ll also take classes in Exercise Physiology, Strength and Conditioning for Sports, Introduction to Exercise Testing and Prescription, and more. The degree also includes general education studies in areas such as Composition and Communication, Intellectual Inquiry in the Humanities, Community, Culture and Citizenship in the USA, etc. You may want to explore the school’s BS in Kinesiology as well.

To complete your admission, you’ll submit a copy of your high school diploma (or GED), submission of official academic transcripts, and an application (with a $50 fee). Transfer students must submit an application and provide official academic transcripts for all schools attended. (UK has “Transfer Tuesdays” where you can apply without the $50 fee during academic year 20-21. Test scores are waived for the 20-21 academic year.)

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $12,484-$31,294

Fast Fact: Founded in 1865, UK is ranked #169 in Best Value Schools and #93 Best Colleges for Veterans

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science program!

13. Georgia State University

This Atlanta-based university, awards an Exercise Science, B.S. degree through its College of Education and Health Development.

In addition to core coursework, you’ll enroll in Introduction to Kinesiology and Health, Principles of Physical Activity and Fitness, Anatomy and Lab in Kinesiology and Health, and Principles of Physical Activity and Fitness are some of the required courses in the curriculum. Upper-division classes are Biomechanics, Cardiopulmonary Physiology, Advanced Biomechanics for Exercise Science, Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription, Clinical Exercise Physiology, and others.

You’ll complete Georgia State’s Common Application for admission whether you’re a first-year student or a transfer student from another school. As with first-year students, transfer admission requires an application, an application fee, and academic transcripts.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $9,286-$24,517

Fast Fact: Niche ranks GSU #191/676 in its Top Public Universities in America

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science major!

14. University of New Hampshire

The Kinesiology department at UNH provides a BS in Exercise Science if you’re wanting a career in wellness centers, sports medicine, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and more.

Among the lower division topics, you’ll study Human Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Psychology, Emergency Medical Responder, Scientific Foundations of Health and Fitness, Physiology of Exercise, General Chemistry, etc. Upper-division classes include Fitness and Graded Exercise TestingTopics in Applied Physiology, Exercise Prescription and Leadership in Healthy and Special Populations, and an internship. The total number of credit hours for this degree range from 130-134.

Application for admission for first-year students requires an application, a high school transcript (or GED or HISET), optional test scores, and a letter of recommendation. Transfers will be asked for academic transcripts, applications, and a notarized residency statement.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $18,938-$36,278

Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Report rates UNH in its top 100 in Best Colleges for Veterans, Top Public Schools, and Best Value Schools

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science major!

15. University of Mary

This private, North Dakota, Christian university offers a BS in Exercise Science which has an upper 90% percentile graduation rate.

Among the required courses are biology, human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, psychology, exercise physiology, pathophysiology and exercise, exercise prescription, etc. Studies in nutrition, basic pharmacology, biomechanics and kinesiology are also included. A Clinical Practicum is part of the curriculum, as is an internship. This degree requires 129 credit hours and can be completed in 4 years (128 weeks).

Admission asks for an application, a $30 nonrefundable fee, transcripts, and ACT/SAT scores. Transfer requirements are similar. You’ll also be asked to submit the official scores from ACT/SAT tests.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $19,830

Fast Fact: Niche ranks this school as having the #135/564 Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America

Interested? Learn more here about this Exercise Science major!

16. Georgia Southern University

If you’re looking for a solid program to help you advance to a master’s or doctorate degree, you should explore the Bachelor of Science Kinesiology (BSK) in Exercise Science at the GSU Statesboro campus.

This program offers five concentrations: Allied Health and Graduate School, Inclusive Physical Activity, Fitness and Wellness Management, Sport Performance, and Tactical Strength and Conditioning. Each concentration shares core studies in Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Exercise Science, Introductory Physics, as well as general education courses. Coursework in these areas (except Allied Health and Graduate School) will qualify you to sit for certification exams. This degree requires 124 credit hours.

First-year students for the 2020-21 academic year are not required to submit ACT/SAT scores. You will need to complete an application (with a $30 fee), an official academic transcript, a 2.5-2.59 high school GPA, and other documents. Transfer students must have a minimum of 30 acceptable transfer hours, a 2.0 GPA, application, and more.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $6,485-$17,539

Fast Fact: GSU ranks as one of U.S. News and World Report’s Top Public Schools

Interested? Learn more here about Exercise Science majors!

17. Central Michigan University

You have a choice from three options for this BS in Exercise Science at Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant, MI.

The Clinical Exercise Science option is a good one if you have clinical care as your career goals (cardiopulmonary rehab, diagnostic testing, etc.), Health Fitness will prepare you for a career as a personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach, etc., and the Kinesiology option gives you the foundation to earn a professional or graduate degree. Core courses, shared by all three options, cover Human Anatomy and Physiology, Responding to Emergencies, Introduction to Exercise Science, and more to complete the 53-58 credit hours.

As a first-year student applying for admission, you’ll submit a $40 processing fee, an application, and provide official academic transcripts, and optional ACT/SAT scores. Transfer students provide the same documents.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $12,960-$24,120

Fast Fact: Niche ranks CMU #202/564 in its Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America

Interested? Learn more here about Exercise Science majors!

18. New York Institute of Technology

You can earn a BS in Exercise Science with a concentration in Exercise Physiology which requires 121-123 credit hours in total.

This is a good degree to prepare you to coach, train, or pursue a higher degree in occupational or physical therapy, kinesiology, etc. You’ll study Foundations of Physical Activity, Introduction to Kinesiology, Human Gross Anatomy, Human Physiology, Introduction to Clinical Nutrition Practice, Lifestyle and Weight Management, as well as a Senior Practicum. The curriculum also requires general education classes in writing, speech communication, Social Science, and more.

Requirements for first-year and transfer admission include an application and a $50 fee, high school transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, an essay, and letters of recommendation. Additional documents may be requested.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $39,760

Fast Fact: NYIT is #545/1,572 in Niche’s Best Value College in America

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

19. Calvin University

Calvin University was founded in Grand Rapids, MI in 1876. The Department of Kinesiology offers a BS in Exercise Science. The department also offers three other concentrations in Health and Physical Education, Therapeutic Recreation, and Sport Management.

The curriculum offers numerous courses for the Exercise Science major. The program requires studies in Nutrition, Basic Health Concepts, Anatomical Kinesiology, Introduction to Kinesiology, Physiology of Physical Activity, Biomechanics, Strength and Conditioning, as well as an Internship in an approved agency or location. The program offers classes to prepare students who want to attend graduate school.

As with other programs, admission for first-year students requests you complete an application and provide high school transcripts (or GED test scores). Transfers will also complete an application and provide school transcripts.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $37,806

Fast Fact: Calvin University ranks #13 in Best Value Schools as determined by U.S. News and World Report

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

20. Buena Vista University

If you’re wanting a clinical education in this field, you’ll want to check out Storm Lake, Iowa’s Buena Vista University’s Bachelor’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Science.

This comprehensive exercise science degree covers studies in Functional Human Anatomy, Introduction to Human Physiology, First Aid, Nutrition, Lifetime Health Management with Lab, Facility and Event Management, as well as a lower division Internship in Kinesiology. Some other topics covered include Biomechanics of Human Motion, Measurement and Evaluation in Kinesiology, Physiological Principles of Conditioning, as well as a Kinesiology Capstone Project. Courses are designed to prepare you to sit for professional certification exams.

The university uses the online Common Application for admission. First-year students should be prepared to submit all academic transcripts. The ACT/SAT tests are waived for the 2020-21 academic year. Transfer admission follows similar requirements.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $36,426

Fast Fact: Niche includes Buena Vista University in its Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

21. Hofstra University

This New York university boasts a 96% employment rate within one year of Hofstra University graduation. Through its Department of Health Professions, you can earn a BS in Exercise Science (BSES) in 129 credit hours.

You’ll study nutrition, health education, exercise physiology, human anatomy and physiology, analysis of human movement, sport and exercise psychology, etc. Other classes include Drugs and Alcohol, Weight Training or Resistance Exercise Techniques & Progressions, Applied Exercise Physiology, and more. This curriculum will allow you to seek professional certification. Additionally, you’ll gain first-hand experience through an internship at one or two off-campus facilities, developing and working on physical fitness programs for clients.

Application for admission for first-year students begins with completion of the online Common Application, SAT/ACT scores are optional (you’ll want to discuss this with an admission counselor), transcripts, and other documents.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $49,410

Fast Fact: Hofstra University ranks #92 in U.S. News and World Report‘s Best Value Schools as well as #114 for Best Colleges for Veterans

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

22. Liberty University

You can choose from one of three exercise science concentrations with Liberty University’s BS in Exercise Science. Your options are Strength and Conditioning, Therapeutic Science, and Fitness Specialist.

The three specialty options share foundational studies, including general topics in Civic and Global Engagement, Critical Thinking, Social and Scientific Inquiry, Technological Solutions & Quantitative Reasoning, etc. Specific courses in the Exercise Science major include two courses in Human Anatomy and Physiology with labs, General Psychology, College Algebra, and Personal Health. You’ll take classes specifically related to your concentration. (Note: this curriculum information is effective for students entering the program in the Fall 2020 through Summer 2021.)

Standard admission requirements an application, academic transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, and an admission essay.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $21,587

Fast Fact: Forbes included Liberty University in its 2019 Top Colleges 2019

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

23. Aurora University

Located in Aurora, Illinois, AU awards a BS in Exercise Science. This exercise science degree program offers a unique opportunity for you to work with AU student-athletes to achieve their maximum potential.

Recognized by the Education Recognition Program by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the program has three focus areas: Athletic Training, Sports Performance, or Fitness and Wellness Promotion. The website cites core courses in kinesiology, sports nutrition, physiology, strength training, as well as Olympic weightlifting. If your concentration is in Sports Performance or Fitness and Wellness Promotion, you’ll complete an Exercise Science Capstone Project and Internship.

As a first-year student, you’ll need a high school degree (or GED) for admission. You’ll be asked to provide academic transcripts and applications. Aurora University is test-optional but does require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $25,600

Fast Fact: AU is one of Niche’s #747/1542 Best Value Colleges in America

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

24. Springfield College

Springfield College, located in Springfield, Massachusetts, has been educating students since 1885. You can earn a BS and MS in Exercise Science/Pre-professional Athletic Training with this accelerated 5-year program. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and is a member of the American Kinesiology Association (AKA).

You’ll take general education classes as well as courses in Exercise Science and pre-professional athletic training. The curriculum includes anatomy and physiology, Introduction to Athletic Training, Kinesiology/Biomechanics, Physics for Movement Science (with lab), Sports Nutrition, and Prevention of Injuries and Illness. Clinical and athletic training practicum experiences complete the program. You’ll earn your BS degree by the end of your fourth year and begin graduate studies in the summer term of the fourth year.

Requirements for admission are an application, academic transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and an interview. A 3.0 GPA is necessary for admission to the Athletic Training program.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $19,965-$33,150

Fast Fact: Springfield College is ranked #18 in Best Value Schools by U.S. News and World Report

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

25. Adams State University

Adams State University, in Alamosa, Colorado, features a BS in Kinesiology degree which provides a focus on hands-on experience through its state-of-the-art Human Performance Lab.

Offering a multi-disciplinary course of study, the Exercise Science curriculum covers topics in sports psychology, care for athletic injuries, health promotion, physiology and anatomy, kinesiology, risk management, as well as ethics and leadership. You can take classes in sports management, biomechanics, adaptive physical education, and first aid/CPR/AED training. There are significant hands-on practicum experiences, workshops, independent study, and fieldwork with students. You can choose from three areas of emphasis in Sport Management, Exercise Science, or K-12 Physical Education.

First-year students’ admission involves an application and official high school transcripts. Test scores are optional. Transfer students will follow the admission process, but ACT/SAT scores are required for students with fewer than 24 transferrable credit hours.

Estimated Academic Year Tuition Cost: $9,560-$21,296

Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Report ranks ASU #50-#66 in its Top Public Schools category

Interested? Learn more by clicking here!

Why Should I Get a Degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science?

Exercise Science is the study of human movement as it relates to fitness and health. Kinesiology also studies movement and physiology and is necessary for the clinical recovery of physical abilities and wellness using a prescribed exercise regimen. An undergraduate degree is a key component to your success in several health and athletic occupations. A Bachelor of Science or Arts is required if you’re interested in entering healthcare as a physical therapist assistant, wellness director, or physiologist.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests those with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science have an 11% job growth expectation from 2019-2029, which is much faster than average job categories.

Careers in Kinesiology and Exercise Science cut across several areas. An undergraduate degree will be your start for a variety of professional options from coaching to earning a master’s degree in physical/occupational therapy.

Is Exercise Science the Same Thing as Kinesiology?

Exercise Science is the study of human movement as it relates to fitness, health, and longevity. Kinesiology is also the study of movement and physiology and is critical in the recovery of physical abilities and wellness through exercise. It’s the right choice for an athletic trainer or coach.

Exercise Science identifies areas of physical activity (or inactivity) where patients or clients could benefit from prescribed activities to meet specific goals. Kinesiology studies physiology, chemistry, biomechanics, biology, and other sciences to prepare you for healthcare careers in physical therapy, as a physician assistant, exercise psychology, and more.

“What You Can Do With a Kinesiology Degree” is a publication of U.S. News and World Report and goes into more detail on the field.

How Do I Choose an Exercise Science Program?

Your choice of an Exercise Science program will depend greatly on your career goals.

If you’re wanting to enter the healthcare field, you’ll want to find a program that will train you in the science of kinesiology and health-related subjects. You’ll also want to find a program that offers clinical experiences in the field through internships or clinical practicum experiences.

Accreditation is another key component in making your decision. This assures you the coursework, faculty, student resources, and requirements meet quality standards. While all the schools listed in this ranking hold regional accreditation are Department of Education approved, independent agencies. Several schools will offer Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) program accreditation.

There are accreditation organizations that approve Kinesiology/Exercise Science specific studies, such as: The American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) or American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) provide professional credentials in the field.

Some more top schools include the University of Georgia (Athens), Texas A&M University, University of Washington, University of Virginia, and the University of Indiana. Many of them also offer graduate programs.

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