Program Overview

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science program at Webster University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the science of exercise and movement. The program is housed in the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, ensuring that students receive a strong foundation in the sciences.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the exercise science program, students will be able to demonstrate:

• Basic knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics, and human movement.
• Knowledge of effective analysis of kinesiology concepts.
• Skill in applied kinesiology, effective use of problem-solving techniques, and intelligent decision-making skills in clinical settings.
• Tolerance and understanding of diverse populations, responsible citizenship, a professional attitude, and ethical behavior.

Program Details

The Exercise Science degree is offered in Webster Groves, Missouri. The program requires a minimum of 120 credit hours, including 30 credit hours in residence at Webster University.

Prerequisite Courses

• BIOL 3010 Human Anatomy and Physiology I* (3 hours) and BIOL 3011 Human Anatomy and Physiology I: Lab* (1 hour)
• BIOL 3020 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (3 hours) and BIOL 3021 Human Anatomy and Physiology II: Lab (1 hour)
• PSYC 2300 Lifespan Development* (3 hours)
• PSYC 2750 Introduction Measurement and Statistics (3 hours) or MATH 2200 Statistics (3 hours) or STAT 3100 Inferential Statistics (3 hours)
• PSYC 3125 Abnormal Psychology* (3 hours)
• Social Science Elective (ANSO, ECON, POLT, PSYC) (3 hours)

Career Opportunities

As an Exercise Science major at Webster, you’ll be qualified to immediately pursue exciting career roles such as:

• Personal Trainer
• Wellness Coordinator
• Strength and Conditioning Coach
• Fitness Trainers and Instructors

Most graduates will continue their education in a specialized post-baccalaureate program after graduation and are employed in a wide range of positions, including:

• Exercise Physiologists
• Kinesiotherapists
• Physical Therapists
• Athletic Trainers

Salaries for Exercise Science Majors

Jobs for exercise physiologists are predicted to increase by 13% through 2030. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median annual wage for exercise physiologists was $50,280 in May 2020. Jobs for athletic trainers are predicted to increase 23% through 2030. Also according to BLS, as of May 2020, the median annual wage for athletic trainers is $49,860.

Pre-Occupational Therapy 3-2 Program

Webster University offers a cooperative 3-2 program with the Washington University School of Medicine in Occupational Therapy. This dual degree program enables students to complete a BA in Biology, BS in Biological Sciences, BS in Exercise Science, BS in Psychological Science, or BA in Psychology from Webster University and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Washington University within a five-year period.

To take advantage of this cooperative 3-2 program, students need to:

• Complete a minimum of 90 credit hours toward the declared Webster undergraduate degree, with at least 30 of those credit hours taken in residence at Webster University, and two years at Washington University.
• Complete the Webster University global citizenship program and the requirements for their undergraduate major at Webster prior to entering the Washington University program.
• Apply to the Washington University School of Medicine Occupational Therapy Program. Most students apply in early fall of their junior year. Interested students should examine the materials on the Washington University site to make sure they have the most current set of admission requirements.
• Submit a petition to graduate from Webster University upon earning a minimum of 120 credit hours (after year 1 or year 2 at Washington University).