Program Overview

Program Overview

The Exercise Science program is designed to create exercise programs that improve people's health. Exercise science professionals work in physiology, biomechanics, and motor control/learning, helping to improve cardiovascular function and overall human performance.

Degree Programs

Kinesiology Bachelor of Science

The Kinesiology Bachelor of Science with an option in Exercise Science is a degree program that focuses on the study of human movement and exercise.

Kinesiology Masters of Science

The Kinesiology Masters of Science with an option in Exercise Science is a graduate degree program that provides advanced study in the field of exercise science.

Career Opportunities

• Exercise physiologist working in sports and wellness programs
  • Researcher working in sports medicine and fitness
  • Exercise specialist working in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation settings
• Biomechanist working in sport and rehabilitation programs
• Researcher in sports medicine
• Sport and fitness product development

Career Outlook and Pay

The employment of exercise physiologists is projected to grow 10 percent in the next ten years, faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for exercise physiologists is $49,700 in CA and $54,860 in the US. In contrast, physical therapists, who require a doctoral degree, have a median annual wage of $114,270 in CA and $99,710 in the US.

Interests, Skills, and Values

• Physical fitness: Exercise science professionals are passionate about physical fitness, sports, and athletic performance.
• Science skills: Exercise science professionals require scientific knowledge to conduct research, diagnose patients, evaluate progress, and provide care.
• Compassion: Exercise science professionals should show empathy when working with people who may be in pain or discomfort.
• Detail-oriented: Exercise science professionals must be able to track the progress of patients and ensure that patients receive the correct treatment.
• Decision-making skills: Exercise science professionals must make informed clinical decisions that could have a large impact on the physical wellbeing of patients.
• Interpersonal skills: Exercise science professionals must be able to manage difficult situations and communicate clearly with patients and colleagues.

Related Careers

• Athletic Training
• Fitness
• Physical Education/Adapted Physical Education
• Physical Therapy
• Recreational Therapy
• Sports Industry

Associations, Organizations, and Resources

• American College of Sports Medicine
• National Strength and Conditioning Association
• International Society of Sports Nutrition
• American Society of Biomechanics
• International Society of Biomechanics