Bachelor’s degree in
Exercise Science

Exercise is about more than athletic performance. It's one of the most effective tools for improving overall health, preventing disease, and enhancing quality of life. From helping individuals manage chronic conditions to supporting mental health and healthy aging, exercise plays a critical role in modern healthcare and wellness.

As healthcare organizations, fitness facilities, schools, and community programs place greater emphasis on preventive care and healthy living, the demand for qualified exercise science professionals continues to grow. These professionals use their knowledge of human movement, fitness assessment, nutrition, and behavior change to help people achieve healthier lifestyles and reach their personal wellness goals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in many health and fitness-related occupations are projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations.

With a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, you'll develop the scientific knowledge and practical experience needed to support individuals across a wide range of health, fitness, and performance settings. Whether your goal is to work in fitness and wellness, pursue graduate study, or prepare for a career in allied health professions, this degree can help you build a strong foundation for long-term success.

With a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, you'll explore the science behind human movement, health promotion, and physical performance while developing the practical skills employers seek. Monroe's evidence-based curriculum combines theory and hands-on learning to prepare graduates to make an immediate impact in fitness, wellness, healthcare, and performance settings.

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

You'll gain an in-depth understanding of how exercise impacts the body and learn to design effective training and wellness programs for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. You'll develop the skills needed to assess health and fitness, improve athletic performance, and support clients managing medical or physical challenges. The comprehensive curriculum includes:

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

An important part of the curriculum is a supervised internship experience that allows you to apply classroom knowledge in professional settings. Through hands-on training, you'll gain valuable real-world experience while developing the skills and confidence needed to succeed in your chosen career path.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science?
As a full-time program, the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science can be completed in eight semesters. Through Monroe University's three-semester academic calendar, students may have the opportunity to complete their degree faster than at many traditional institutions.

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Requirements

• 122 total credits
• Major-related courses: 74 credits
• General education and related courses: 48

Applicants to the BS in Exercise Science program must fulfill the following admissions requirements:

• Candidates must possess either a high school graduation credential, a high school equivalency diploma, or a recognized college degree as outlined in the transfer admissions policy.
• Candidates must submit a completed application for admission, as well as a personal statement or essay.
• Placement into college-level math or transfer credit for math with a 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 a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science Cost? 

You're working toward a rewarding career. That's why we're committed to making higher 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 a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree, you can pursue a variety of careers in fitness, wellness, healthcare, sports performance, and community health settings. Graduates work in health clubs, fitness centers, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, universities, corporate wellness programs, and private training organizations.

The Exercise Science program prepares you to deliver evidence-based services that improve health outcomes, physical performance, and quality of life. Career opportunities may include:

• Exercise Physiologist
• Personal Trainer
• Fitness Instructor
• Health Coach
• Strength and Conditioning Specialist
• Wellness Program Coordinator
• Corporate Wellness Manager
• Recreation Director
• Athletic Program Administrator

For students interested in advanced education, the bachelor's degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study and professional programs in areas such as:

• Community Health and Wellness
• Health Services Administration
• Sports Management
• Business Management
• Public Health
• Exercise Physiology
• Physical Therapy
• Occupational Therapy

Your School of Allied Health Professions academic advisor will work with you to develop an academic plan that supports your career and educational goals.

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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