Key Takeaways:
- The University of Kansas and American Military University are highlighted as top programs offering comprehensive bachelor’s degrees in exercise science.
- Online exercise science programs offer flexibility and open career opportunities in the health and fitness industry.
- Exercise science bachelor’s degrees focus on kinesiology and exercise science, studying movement, function, and physical response.
- Programs typically include practical components like internships to provide real-world experience in fitness and health settings.
The best online exercise science degree programs are a flexible way to boost the career of fitness and wellness professionals. Online exercise science degrees can open the door for you to enter one of the world’s fastest-growing health and fitness industries. According to Statista, health and fitness is an $87.23 billion industry worldwide, and it’s a $35 billion revenue source in the US.
Best Health Degrees researched online bachelor’s in exercise degree programs to help you decide if a career in exercise science is for you. We looked at school information and condensed it to give you an idea of what these programs offer. We looked at both kinesiology and exercise science. Kinesiology concentrates on movement, function, and performance. Exercise Science looks at the physical responses to those three elements.
Our editors first ranked online exercise science degree programs in June 2023. This ranking was updated March 2024.
Our Method: Ranking Online Exercise Science and Kinesiology Bachelor’s Programs
To rank these online exercise science and kinesiology 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. Our findings are listed below.
| Rank | School Name | Location | Tuition |
| #1 | University of Kansas | Lawrence, KS | $11,167 |
| #2 | American Military University | Charles Town, WV | $7,360 |
| #3 | University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, North Dakota | $10,951 |
| #4 | University of Louisiana Monroe | Monroe, Louisiana | $9,082 |
| #5 | University of Louisiana Lafayette | Lafayette, Louisiana | $10,382 |
| #6 | Tarleton State University | Stephenville, Texas | $7,848 |
| #7 | East Central University | Ada, Oklahoma | $7,405 |
| #8 | Concordia University Global | Saint Paul, Minnesota | $24,400 |
| #9 | Ottawa University | Ottawa, Kansas | $33,380 |
| #10 | North Carolina Central University | Durham, North Carolina | $6,599 |
1. University of Kansas
If you’re looking to complete your degree, this is a good, online Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Exercise Science program.
This bachelor’s in exercise science online program is a professional program and has a limited enrollment. You’ll need to complete a minimum of 120 credit hours for this degree completion program. If your ultimate goal is a career in therapeutic sports, fitness, coaching, medical school, Physical Therapy, or another health-related field, this degree is tailor-made. This curriculum features general education classes and studies in the areas of motor control, rehabilitative exercise, biomechanics, physiology and anatomy. The department also offers a study abroad experience.
You must be a transfer student to apply for admission for this degree and KU will accept up to 64 credit hours from a community or junior college. A University of Kansas admission application is required, and academic transcripts from all schools attended, ACT/SAT scores, and other documents may be required.
Pros
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1
- Rankings in many top 100 categories with U.S. News and World Report
- Research institution with undergraduate opportunities
- Transfer students accepted
Cons
- Out-of-state tuition for non-residents of Kansas
2. American Military University
The American Military University, a member of the American Public University System, has an online BS in Sports and Health Science. You can choose from four concentrations: Exercise Science, Fitness and Wellness Professional Studies, General Studies, or Coaching Studies.
Online courses begin each month and are 6-8 weeks in length for this 120 credit hours degree. The exercise science online program concentrates on exercise science, health and wellness, kinesiology, nutrition, exercise testing, and programming, as well as anatomy and physiology. General education studies are also part of the bachelor’s in exercise science requirements as well as a final project. Among the Exercise Science, program objectives are teach “…advance fitness, readiness, and performance…”, management of sports injuries, concepts in nutrition and wellness, etc.
First-year students seeking admission, need to submit a free university application, possess a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e. GED), and provide additional documentation as requested. Transfer students may transfer up to 90 credit hours from other schools toward this degree. Active duty or veterans are offered special scholarship opportunities.
Pros
- 72% of students graduate with no incurred student loan debt
- Lower tuition than other online programs
- Monthly courses and start dates
- Serves as preparation for certification exams (CPT, PES, GFI)
Cons
- Higher student-to-faculty ratio of 24:1
- Large student body, serving over 48,000 students
3. University of North Dakota
Prospective students enrolled in this online BS in Kinesiology degree never need to visit the UND’s Grand Forks, ND campus.
Fully accredited, this bachelor’s in exercise science degree program will prepare you for a variety of careers in health and fitness, allied health, or education. You’ll study biomechanics, adapted physical activity, epidemiology, and complete your own exercise science project. The 120 credit hour degree also calls for Essential Studies in disciplines in Communications, Fine Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, and others. The university also offers an accelerated BS/MS in Kinesiology program you can complete in 150 credit hours or in 4-5 years.
If you’re a first-time university student, you’ll need to meet specific admission requirements, such as a high school or GED, high school GPA, application, etc. If you’re a transfer student, you’ll need a 2.0 GPA, submit an application, and provide academic transcripts from schools you’ve attended.
Pros
- 10-credit internship opportunity that offers real-world experience
- 83% acceptance rate
- Internship placements with big named organizations
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1
- Ranks in the top 100 with U.S. News and World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs
Cons
- Higher out-of-state tuition for non-residents
4. University of Louisiana Monroe
If you’re wanting an online degree that will prepare you for a career in cardiac rehabilitation, personal/athletic training, or pre-physical therapy, you may want to look at the University of Louisiana’s BS in Kinesiology and Exercise Science concentration.
The curriculum covers a wide range of topics. You can choose classes from First Aid and Safety, Introduction to Kinesiology, Concepts of Wellness, Motor Learning and Motor Control, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology and Biomechanics, Exercise in Health and Disease, Epidemiology, as well as a Practicum. This program was one of the first degree programs to earn accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)/Committee on Accreditation for Exercise Sciences (CoAES).
First-year students will need a 2.35 minimum GPA, academic transcript, and ACT/SAT scores for admission. You’ll also need to develop an admissions account ($20 fee, subject to change). Transfer applicants follow the same criteria. You can check your acceptable transfer credits, as the school offers a generous transfer policy.
Pros
- 70% acceptance rate
- Diverse selection of kinesiology courses
- Exercise Science concentration option
- Generous transfer credit policy
- 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio (lower than other schools with this program)
Cons
- Non-residents pay higher tuition
- Must maintain a “C” or better in all program courses
5. University of Louisiana Lafayette
University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers a 100% online BS in Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and Wellness that offers accelerated 8-week and 16-week courses.
The exercise science online degree program will prepare you for a career as a public health educator or community health advocate through a focus on environmental health, nutrition, theory, and application of kinesiology as a world health issue, marketing, and more. As with other undergraduate degrees, you’ll be expected to complete 120 credit hours for this degree. The University’s Enrollment Specialists can help you determine how many credits you’ll need to complete based on your existing college credits.
If you’ve never attended college or university, admission will require an application with $25 fee, ACT/SAT scores, high school transcripts (of GED test scores), for males 18 or older proof of Selective Service Registration, and more. Transfer students will follow much of the same admission process.
Pros
- Accelerated courses (8- and 16-week options)
- Flat rate tuition for all resident and non-residents
- Higher acceptance rate (75%)
- Large selection of industry-relevant courses
- 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Cons
- Limited tech support
6. Tarleton State University
This Texas university (Tarleton State University) has an online BS in Kinesiology, which includes study in the Exercise and Allied Health Profession (EXSS) through the School of Kinesiology.
If your plans are to enter the healthcare field, TSU’s Exercise and Sport Studies (EXSS) concentration may be the program for you. According to the suggested curriculum, you’ll study biomechanics, exercise testing, exercise prescriptions and assessment, injury care and prevention, as well as electrocardiography. An internship in Exercise and Allied Health is required and certification in certain areas is available. Courses in general education are also part of this 120 credit hour program. The program offers two other concentrations in Coaching, Athletic Administration, & Recreation (CAAR) and Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE).
To be admitted, you’ll complete the online ApplyTexas and provide academic transcripts. You’ll want to check the requirements for transfer students and be sure to participate in the online Transfer Information Sessions.
Pros
- Award-winning faculty
- Concentration options in unique areas of kinesiology and sports science
- Internship opportunities (hands-on experience)
- Preparation for related graduate programs
Cons
- Limited activities for online students
- Out-of-state tuition
7. East Central University
Located in Ada, Oklahoma, East Central University (ECU) awards an online, 124-credit-hour, BS in Kinesiology you can complete in 2-4 years.
Courses run in 8-week sessions and all classes are online. You’ll need 44 hours in general education courses (English, history, etc.) and 23 hours of electives. Your major will require 57 credit hours and the curriculum offers strong academic studies in Introduction to Kinesiology, Applied Anatomy, Sports Nutrition, Biomechanics, Exercise Testing and Prescription, Psychology of Sports, Research and Evaluation of Kinesiology, and more. A faculty supervised practicum is required.
East Central University has a generous transfer program and students may transfer up to 94 credits from other postsecondary schools. You can use the Transfer Matrix tool to see what credits may transfer to ECU. First-time students’ admission standards include letters of recommendation, ACT/SAT scores, high school or college transcripts, and other documents. ECU also offers special admission standards for First-Generation Students (for students who are the first in their family to attend college).
Pros
- 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- 80 hours of hands-on training
- Generous transfer credit policy (up to 94 credits)
- Short, accelerated 8-week courses
- Supervised practicum
Cons
- Lower overall graduation rate of 31%
- Practicum requirements
8. Concordia University Global
Concordia University Global’s BA in Exercise Science will prepare you for a career in coaching, personal trainer, health and wellness education, as well as rehabilitation services.
Including general education courses, this degree calls for a 120-credit hour curriculum. You’ll complete 32-44 credit hours in Functional Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, Applied Exercise Prescription, Sport Psychology, Applied Nutrition, Foundations of Exercise and Sports Sciences, and additional courses. You’ll also participate in an internship with the collaboration of your advisor to enhance your hands-on skills. This BA will prepare you to continue studies in areas such as exercise physiology, chiropractic, biomechanics, as well as other disciplines.
Along with academic transcripts and application, admission to this program you may be asked to submit an essay to supplement your admission application. CSP will cover the cost of your transcripts and conduct a free transfer credit evaluation if you’re a transfer student. Talk with your Enrollment Counselor about CSP’s custom site for Federal Student Aid and financial aid.
Pros
- 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Flat-rate tuition for in-state and out-of-state students
- Free transfer credit evaluation and generous policy
- Scholarships and financial aid assistance
Cons
- 51% graduation rate
- Less diverse courses
9. Ottawa University
If your ultimate career goals focus on physical therapy, biomechanics, occupational therapy, or any of the exercise science professions, you’ll want to review the Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science (BAES) program at this Kansas university.
You’ll choose from one of three concentrations offered through Ottawa University’s School of Education, including Pre-allied Health. This concentration will acquaint you with studies in human anatomy and physiology, adaptive physical education, nutrition, principles of psychology, and biology. The program also requires an internship. You’ll also study ethics, legal issues in recreation and sports, and psychopathology.
As with other schools, Ottawa University requires an application (with fee) and academic transcripts for admission. The school website encourages you to begin your admission steps by connecting with an Enrollment Advisor. Transfer students may transfer up to 80 credit hours toward this 124-hour degree.
Pros
- 3 specialization options
- 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Diverse courses and curriculum
- Up to 80 transfer credits accepted
Cons
- Limited hours for technology support
- Small college and student population (953 students)
10. North Carolina Central University
You can earn a BS in Kinesiology with a Fitness and Wellness concentration from this North Carolina Centra University.
Offered online, this degree will prepare you for a career in allied health in prevention and rehabilitation. The degree requires 120-credit hours and the curriculum has general education coursework as well as studies in Kinesiology and Recreation Administration, fitness and wellness management, and electives. Among the kinesiology courses, you’ll study are Exercise Physiology, Nutrition, Group Exercise Leadership, Physical Activity for Aging, and more. This curriculum is designed to prepare you to sit for several certification exams.
This program is currently admitting only first-time students. You’ll begin the admission process by creating an online account. You’ll submit your high school transcript demonstrating classes in English, math, social studies, science, and a foreign language.
Pros
- 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Consistent rankings with U.S. News and World Report, Best Value and Top Public School
- Recorded video lab sessions
- SAS Certification option
Cons
- Minimum GPA requirements (2.0)
- 44% graduation rate
Other Online Kinesiology and Exercise Science Schools
Unfortunately, not all schools made our list of universities with undergraduate exercise science programs. So if you are still looking for a program check out:
- Abilene Christian University
- California Baptist University
- Bryan University
- Concordia University Chicago
- Franklin University
- Maryville University
- Pennsylvania Western University
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Online exercise science programs, like those on our list, are available from accredited colleges and universities. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science is a good choice online if you need the flexibility in your schedule. Online programs, such as those in exercise science, offer accelerated courses, asynchronous study options, and shorter completion times than traditional degrees.
With a 10% growth in jobs expected through 2032, getting a degree in exercise science is worth it! The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an increase in jobs for exercise physiologists for the next decade. Athletic trainers, too, should expect a 14% growth in jobs. The projected growth makes it worth getting a degree.
In a bachelor’s in exercise science program, the focus is on human movement, physiology, and sports science. Courses include many different topics surrounding exercise and health. Here are some courses you might take in a bachelor’s degree program:
• Applied exercise science
• Health psychology
• Human movement
• Performance in athletics
• Personal health
• Research methods
• Sports first aid
• Sports nutrition
There are many jobs you can get with a degree in exercise science. Some career options include:
• Certified Personal Trainer
• Corrective Exercise Specialist
• Performance Enhancement Specialist
• Health Educator or Community Health Worker
• Strength and Conditioning Coach
It depends on the job, but this list will give you an idea of how much money you can make with an exercise science degree. The average pay listed was collected from the most recent data published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
• Athletic trainers: $53,840/year
• Coaches: $44,890/year
• Exercise physiologists: $51,350/year
• Fitness trainers and instructors: $45,380/year
• Recreational therapists: $51,330/year
For some students, exercise science can be challenging due to its integration of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics. Students dig into complex subjects like exercise prescription and nutrition. Having a strong foundation in biology and chemistry is beneficial and can lead to your success in this major.
Yes, exercise science does involve some math, specifically in areas like biomechanics and exercise physiology. Students encounter concepts like statistics for research analysis and equations related to energy expenditure. But a high level of math isn’t required.
Yes, it is possible to go to medical school with an exercise science degree. But you’ll need to fulfill additional pre-medical requirements, including courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and math. Since admissions to medical school is competitive, you’ll also need to show a strong academic performance. If you major in exercise science, make sure you keep your grades high.
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- Kinesiology and Exercise Science Salary
