Associate degree in
Exercise Science

We all know that exercise and good nutrition offer lots of benefits for our physical and mental well-being. A good regimen of physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mood and energy levels, and enhance sleep quality. Additionally, exercise can boost confidence, improve brain health, and help with weight management. 

As more and more Americans struggle with obesity and heart disease, there is a vital need for professionals who can help make positive changes in their clients’ and patients’ daily food and exercise routines, and consequently the health and fitness industry is growing rapidly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook in this field is 11% greater than the average field in the United States. Health and fitness professionals serve nearly 40 million Americans every day. 

And because we spend more and more money on fitness and health programs, many employers now include fitness club memberships in their employee benefit packages. This increasing demand is creating more jobs for those with an Associate of Science in Exercise Science.

With a degree in Exercise Science, you will discover the science behind peak physical achievement while mastering practical skills that employers demand. Monroe’s evidence-based curriculum doesn't just teach theory—it creates confident professionals ready to make an immediate impact. 

• Flexible scheduling, full-time or part-time
• Courses offered on campus in New York, with some fully online
• Industry-driven curriculum

You'll learn how to create personalized fitness routines for clients of various ages and physical conditions. You'll develop skills to evaluate health and fitness levels effectively. You'll even learn how to teach those with medical complications how to properly heal their bodies. The comprehensive curriculum includes:

• Community Health and Wellness
• Foundations of Personal Fitness Training
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Principles of Kinesiology
• Exercise Programming
• Physical Conditioning and Nutrition for Athletes
• Prevention and Care of Athletic Injuries
• Sports Psychology
• Emergency and Medical Applications

An important part of the curriculum is an internship experience which provides you with an opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills obtained in the classroom in a variety of professional environments. In addition, you receive on-the-job training in the career of your choice. 

How long does it take to get an Excercise Science Degree?
As a full-time program, it takes four semesters to earn an Associate degree in Exercise Science. That means you could complete your degree in a year-and-a-half on our three-semester academic calendar.

Associate Degree in Exercise Science Requirements
62 total credits:

• 30 credits of major-related courses
• 32 credits of general education and related courses

Applicants to the AAS in Medical Administration program must fulfill the following admissions requirements: 

Candidates must possess either a high school graduation credential or high school equivalency diploma, or a recognized college associate degree or higher as listed in the transfer admissions policy.

Candidates must also submit a completed application for admission, as well as a personal statement or essay.

Placement into college-level math or transfer credits for math with grade of C or higher

Exercise Science applicants also participate in a pre-admission interview.

Learn more about how to apply to Monroe University.

How Much Does an Exercise Science Degree Cost? 

You’re striving to build a great career. That’s why we strive to make education affordable. 

Our dedicated financial aid team will help you secure every possible financial aid option, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. They’ll work with you every step of the way, from application to graduation — and that’s all on top of our already affordable tuition and fees (and manageable payment plans). 

Monroe University also partners with more than 400 partner organizations to offer Corporate Partnership Grants to eligible employees. It’s just one of the many reasons U.S. News & World Report has named us one of the Best Value Schools among Regional Universities North. 

Learn more about financial aid opportunities.

With an Associate of Science in Exercise Science degree, you can work in a variety of settings, including health clubs, country clubs, universities, gyms, or senior housing. You can choose your specialization during your program, while still being prepared to work in all fitness locations. You can apply for specific positions such as nutritionist, fitness instructor, personal trainer, or group exercise instructor.

The Exercise Science program prepares you to bring specialized services that can make a real impact on client and patient outcomes. Some jobs include:

• Personal Trainer
• Fitness Instructor
• Health Coach
• Physical Therapy Assistant
• Athletic Trainer
• Athletic Director
• Wellness Program Director
• Recreation Director

If you are looking to continue your education, our program offers seamless transfer pathways to bachelor's degree and graduate programs in:

• Community Health and Wellness
• Health Services Administration
• Sports Management
• Business Management
• Public Health 

Your School of Allied Health Professions academic advisor will work with you to ensure maximum transfer of credits to your chosen program.

At Monroe, your education doesn’t stop when you leave the classroom. The School of Allied Health Professions offers a number of clubs, organizations, and honor societies that can help you build your professional network before you even graduate. Here are just a few:

• Alpha Eta is the national honor society for the allied health professions. Every year, they award a number of $1000 honorariums to outstanding students in affiliated allied health programs like ours.
• The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) promotes the advancement and accessibility of healthcare information. Members have access to career development webinars, job boards, and an online community of aspiring professionals like yourself.
• Our Allied Health Club brings together students from every allied health major, as they develop health education programs for both their fellow students and the local community.

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