Science
The Exercise Science major combines anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, psychology, nutrition, and exercise science to prepare students for careers and graduate study in health, fitness, rehabilitation, and sports performance. Through hands-on coursework and internships, students learn to assess needs, develop effective programs, and apply research to real-world settings.
Students develop a strong understanding of human anatomy and physiology, including how the body’s systems interact during physical activity and adapt to exercise. They build foundational knowledge of movement, exercise, and human development.
Students learn to design and evaluate fitness and exercise programs for a variety of populations. They consider factors such as nutrition, recovery, wellness, disease prevention, physical development, and individual goals when developing appropriate programs.
Students also develop the ability to interpret research and apply evidence-based practices to exercise science. They learn to evaluate information and use scientific evidence to inform decisions related to exercise, fitness, performance, and health.
Through internships and hands-on experiences, students apply their knowledge in professional settings. They develop practical skills, professional communication abilities, and experience working with individuals and populations in exercise science-related environments.
The Exercise Science major leads to a Bachelor of Science degree and provides an interdisciplinary foundation in the sciences and health-related fields. Students study anatomy, physiology, exercise physiology, kinesiology, strength and conditioning, injury prevention, motor development, assessment and measurement, nutrition, psychology, and statistics.
The major includes two Exercise Science internships, giving students opportunities to connect classroom learning with professional practice. Students can use these experiences to explore career interests, build professional skills, and gain practical experience in fitness, health, rehabilitation, sports performance, or related settings.
Students interested in graduate study should work with their intended programs to identify prerequisite requirements. The major includes many courses commonly required for physical therapy programs, but additional coursework may be necessary depending on the graduate program.
Exercise Science graduates can pursue careers that help individuals improve fitness, physical performance, wellness, and quality of life. Career opportunities exist in fitness centers, health and wellness organizations, sports programs, rehabilitation settings, community health programs, and other exercise-related environments.
The major can also provide preparation for graduate and professional programs in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, exercise physiology, and other health-related disciplines. Students interested in professional certifications may also be prepared to pursue credentials from organizations such as the NSCA or ACSM.
Potential career paths include:
Hands-on experience is an important part of the Exercise Science major. Students complete two Exercise Science internships, allowing them to apply their knowledge in professional environments and gain experience working with individuals and populations.
Students can also gain practical experience through laboratory work and coursework in assessment, strength and conditioning, injury prevention, kinesiology, and exercise physiology. These experiences help students connect scientific concepts with real-world applications.
Exercise Science can serve as a foundation for students pursuing careers in fitness, wellness, sports performance, and rehabilitation. Students can tailor their experiences toward populations and settings that align with their interests while building professional connections and practical skills.
For students considering graduate school, the major can provide a strong starting point for programs in physical therapy and other health-related fields. Students should work with their intended graduate programs and academic advisors to ensure they complete all required prerequisites.
Students interested in teaching physical education or health in Missouri can complete the Exercise Science BS followed by a Master of Arts in Teaching. Additional testing and certification requirements apply.
Tara Allen, Ph.D.
Professor of Biology; Division Head of Behavioral, Natural, and Health Sciences
Alex Von Schulze, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biology
Vann Bradham, DPT
Adjunct Instructor of Exercise Science
Jill Brown, MS, CSCS, USAW, CF-L1
Adjunct Instructor of Exercise Science
Ryan Arens, MS, LAT, ATC
Assistant Athletic Trainer and Adjunct Instructor of Exercise Science
