2025 Best Online Exercise Science Bachelor's Degrees
The online bachelor's in exercise science offers education in physical activity, fitness, and health, blending theory with practical applications in kinesiology, biomechanics, and sports nutrition. It prepares students for careers in health promotion, fitness training, and rehabilitation.
Key Takeaways:
- Schools with high Salary Scores all have median earnings above $45,000.
- All of our schools in the Best by Student Reviews category have recommendation rates of 79% and higher.
- The most affordable schools with exercise science degrees online have tuition costs below $15,200.
Our methodology for choosing the best online exercise science programs diverges from traditional formats to present tailored selections based on diverse criteria such as affordability, salary outcomes, and student reviews. We also include Honorable Mentions, which are notable for their unique metrics and exercise science programs.
At a Glance:
Featured Popular Online Colleges

Maryville University
- Online Enrollment: 3,046
Maryville University's online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science offers a forward-thinking, experiential learning program designed for aspiring health professionals. With access to a curriculum developed in collaboration with industry leaders, the program encompasses 128 credit hours, including 78 focused on essential skills in movement, nutrition, and exercise counseling. Key features include a 400-hour practicum and two concentration options: Wellness Management and Strength and Conditioning. Accredited by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the program supports you from application to graduation without SAT/ACT requirements, fostering a promising career in the $30 billion health and fitness industry.
Best by Salary Score
We evaluate online schools based on alumni salaries to help prospective students find the best long-term financial investments. Each school receives a Salary Score, comparing alumni earnings across majors. To be eligible, institutions must have earnings data from College Scorecard or meet the online student representation threshold per IPEDS. Below, the online anthropology degrees with high Salary Scores have median earnings above $45,532.
University of Kansas
Why We Like Them:
KU's students have a high earning potential, with graduates of the Bachelor of Applied Science in Exercise Science reporting a median salary of $57,522. This positions KU graduates among the top 6% in earnings when compared to other institutions, indicating a strong return on investment for those who complete the program. Furthermore, KU holds the prestigious Education Recognition Program certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), preparing students for esteemed certifications. The curriculum offers practical, hands-on experiences, aligning with real-world applications.
What Students Say:
"This university is awesome!! This university has very good reputation for my major. I love studying here, very peaceful too!"
Ankur Patil, Graduated 2017
Concordia University - Chicago
Why We Like Them:
CUC's online Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology produces graduates with median earnings of $50,212, placing it in the top 27% of schools by salary outcomes. We also like the university's approach to exercise science, as the curriculum encompasses various subfields like biomechanics, exercise physiology, and cardiac rehabilitation. Unique elements include tailored exercise programs for special populations and the emphasis on practical learning, enhancing both educational and career prospects. The curriculum covers critical courses such as anatomy, exercise physiology, motor learning, and research methods.
What Students Say:
"Concordia University Chicago is in such a great location with so many opportunities... They are very helpful in your coursework and are excellent educators. The school has connections with many different internship sights that will give you the experience you need."
Kelsey, Graduated 2016
Maryville University
Why We Like Them:
Maryville's graduates with an online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science make median earnings of $45,532 annually — positioning them among the top 50% of graduates in this field nationally. This outcome signifies a solid return on investment for you after completing your degree. Students pursuing this degree undertake courses designed with input from top employers and industry professionals, ensuring the curriculum is relevant and current. You will study critical topics such as human movement, nutrition, exercise program design. The program also offers a 400-hour practicum providing hands-on experience in a real-world setting.
Best by Affordability
These schools list annual tuition rates for bachelor's degrees, ensuring "global" tuition — consistent rates across most programs at that level. OnlineU staff manually verify tuition costs and online degrees on official school websites. Note that some anthropology programs have mandatory fees beyond the posted tuition rate; always check college websites for additional costs. The most affordable anthropology degrees on our list have tuition under $22,000.
American Public University System
Why We Like Them:
APU has an online Bachelor of Science in Sports and Health Sciences with a tuition of $10,500. The program is closely aligned with professional certification pathways through a partnership with the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), providing access to preferred pricing for certifications such as Certified Professional Trainer (CPT), Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES), and others. The curriculum includes in-depth coursework on human movement science, anatomy, physiology, and sports psychology, following guidelines set by the American Sport Education Program (ASEP).
What Students Say:
"The instructors are all very knowledgeable in their field and many come from outstanding backgrounds... Being that it is an online university, the student is responsible for managing their time and staying on top of their assignments."
DL, Graduated 2014
PennWest California
Why We Like Them:
PennWest California's tuition of $11,574 for its Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science positions it as a cost-effective option. The curriculum offers a comprehensive blend of exercise science, wellness, and fitness, coupled with foundational knowledge in business, marketing, and management. Additionally, the program provides hands-on experience through a full semester internship aligned with your career goals, enhancing employability. It also prepares you for industry-recognized certifications such as NASM's Certified Personal Trainer and NASE's Certified Speed Coach, making it ideal for aspiring fitness professionals.
What Students Say:
"Teachers and staff alike are amazing to work with. They will listen to your needs and help guide you to what's right and wrong. I did have a great relationship with all my tutors and staff, always on task providing help and they do listen...s ome of the staff members I used to speak to online made the time to come and congratulate me the day of my graduation."
Zin Carla H., Graduated 2019
Concordia University, St. Paul
Why We Like Them:
CU-SP's tuition of $12,600 makes the online Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science an economically sound choice. The program entails 120 credit hours, including a 44-credit major with courses focusing on nutrition, anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and kinesiology. Students gain practical experience through interest-based internships and connections with top alumni employers. You can apply this knowledge in real-world situations, preparing for certifications such as ACSM-CPT, NETA, NSCA, ACSM, ACE, and AFFA. Importantly, 95% of graduates secure employment within a year, indicating strong program outcomes.
What Students Say:
"The professors are dedicated and provide a strong foundation in theory and craft. There is a wide diversity of students (of all genres), but you get out of it what you put into it. The program's strong points outweigh the weak points, in my opinion."
Anonymous, Graduated 2020
Eastern Oregon University
Why We Like Them:
EOU's Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance - Exercise Science is one of the best for affordability, with annual tuition at a competitive $14,832. Complementing its affordability is the school's recommendation rate of 90%. Notably, the program requires 180 credit hours to graduate and offers a curriculum that includes hands-on internship and capstone experience opportunities. Additionally, the online exercise science concentration prepares you for various health certifications, including those in strength and conditioning, personal training, and inclusive fitness training, enhancing your career prospects.
What Students Say:
"My experience as an online student has been truly amazing. All of my instructors have been helpful and encouraging. The Canvas dashboard is easy to use... The staff in admissions, registrar's office, tech support, and professors get an A++. EOU is very affordable."
Jason DeMartile, Graduated 2018
Cameron University
Why We Like Them:
Cameron's affordability is one of its greatest attributes, with a tuition of $15,128 for its Bachelor of Science in Sports and Exercise Science online. It combines research, education, and practical application to enhance fitness, health, and sport performance. Particularly noteworthy is its inclusion of prerequisite courses required for Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) programs in Oklahoma, enhancing its utility for those pursuing advanced healthcare roles. Moreover, students have opportunities to earn accredited certifications such as ACSM, NSCA, and ACE.
What Students Say:
"As a recent graduate with a Bachelors of Science degree, I was amazed at the level of education that I received. Cameron University is such a great school that offers a top-notch learning experience. The staff cares about each student and prepares them for their future."
Joyce Chrisman, Graduated 2015
Parker University
Why We Like Them:
Parker has a highly competitive annual tuition of $21,300 for its online Bachelor of Science in Strength and Human Performance, positioning it in the top 9% for budget-friendly online programs on a national scale. The program stands out with its accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining high education standards. Furthermore, the program prepares students for professional certifications from the NSCA and ACSM, and includes a unique 300-hour internship for hands-on experience.
Highest Rated by Students
Alumni reviews can be a great way to measure overall student satisfaction. Schools on this list must have a minimum of 20 student reviews posted on OnlineU or GradReports, our companion site. A school must also have a minimum review rating of 3.5 out of 5. Below, we feature schools with online anthropology degrees that have recommendation rates as high as 93%.
Bryan University Online
Why We Like Them:
With an overall review rating of 4.6 out of 5, Bryan is a top choice for prospective students. Adding to its strengths is an impressive recommendation rate of 93%, indicating that the vast majority of students would suggest this program to others. The online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Nutrition Management includes coursework like advanced anatomy, sports performance assessments, and nutrition for specialty populations. The program offers significant career opportunities, ranging from becoming a Certified Personal Trainer to a Nutrition Coach. It also aligns with industry standards from NASM and NSCA.
What Students Say:
"Bryan University Online... AMAZING! My experience with the advisors from day one of enrolling to today... I would recommend Bryan University Online to everyone that is wanting to go back to school... My college journey with these people and institutions has been life-changing for me."
Marla Edwards, Graduating 2026
California Baptist University
Why We Like Them:
On our list for its overall review rating of 3.71, CBU excels in student satisfaction. This high rating reflects a strong sense of contentment among students with the program. The Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology online requires 54-56 units and offers three distinctive concentrations: (1) Physical Activity and Wellness, (2) Physical Education, and (3) Sport Performance. Students can benefit from state-of-the-art equipment for sport performance, exercise physiology, and rehabilitation within the Exercise Physiology Lab, which includes facilities like a treadmill that can accommodate six people at once.
What Students Say:
"A very well-kept modernized school... great programs that have the ability to let you connect with professors, which isn’t allowed in all places. Strong Christian roots and very loving faculty."
Anonymous, Graduated 2022
Honorable Mention
Many colleges and universities defy simple categorization, yet they deserve your consideration. Our Honorable Mention section showcases schools that stand out for specific reasons, ensuring you understand their unique offerings. These featured institutions have online enrollments between 108 and 1,008 distance learners, making them popular choices for online education.
United States Sports Academy
Why We Like Them:
USSA's online Bachelor of Sports Science - Sports Strength & Conditioning prepares you for collegiate or professional positions combining strength training, aerobic conditioning, and other science-based methods to help athletes improve their performance. Additionally, this program offers preparation for national certification exams from the ACSM and NSCA, ensuring that you are industry-ready. The NSCA Education Recognition Program endorses this program, recognizing and distinguishing its approved and standardized strength and conditioning curriculum. High-caliber internship opportunities and hands-on experiences are integrated into the curriculum.
Featured Popular Online Colleges

Maryville University
- Online Enrollment: 3,046
Maryville University's online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science offers a forward-thinking, experiential learning program designed for aspiring health professionals. With access to a curriculum developed in collaboration with industry leaders, the program encompasses 128 credit hours, including 78 focused on essential skills in movement, nutrition, and exercise counseling. Key features include a 400-hour practicum and two concentration options: Wellness Management and Strength and Conditioning. Accredited by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the program supports you from application to graduation without SAT/ACT requirements, fostering a promising career in the $30 billion health and fitness industry.
Student Reviews of Online Exercise Science Programs
West Virginia Wesleyan College has an impressive selection of a wide variety of majors and minors, and I am blessed to have the opportunity to study exactly what I want. I am a 5th year senior completing a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Athletic Training. These two majors are one of the fastest growing majors and areas of interest at WVWC, and I'm sure all around the United States. The greatest part of WVWC is the faculty and their involvement in the success of your academic... Read More
Review Date: 8/3/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
This college has a great support team. they call and check up on you even when nothing is wrong. they love to help and do anything in their power to make sure you have the best education you can possibly receive. The teachers are amazing and the material is really easy to understand. Great college all around
Review Date: 2/23/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Stepping on campus you can just feel the positive and exciting energy that surrounds Appalachian State University. The academics, the athletics, and the atmosphere can't be beat. Appalachian will turn anyone into a lover of the outdoors. Being minutes away from the Blue Ridge Parkway, every hour and every season is sure to bring delight from the outdoors surrounding Appalachian. The people in Boone are the best you can ask for. I have met some of the friendliest and most influential people in my... Read More
Review Date: 3/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Bryan University is an incredible institution based out of Arizona. Bryan University is a progressive university that allows for a hybridization of completing your degree either through online curricula or traditional on-campus curricula. Either path can be entirely separate as well leading to one being able to pursue a degree best suited for themselves. My degree program was a Bachelor's of Science in Advanced Personal Training and Exercise Science of which I completed entirely online. Initially,... Read More
Review Date: 6/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Overall, I highly recommend VCSU for anyone interested in their Exercise Science department. The faculty is phenomenal and truly cares about each student individually. The class sizes are extremely small which makes for a great learning environment. There are multiple tracts to chose from in the exercise science program, ranging from pre-professional to strength and conditioning. Although I feel some of the classes could be more challenging, this can be fixed with some independent learning.
The concentration... Read More
Review Date: 6/19/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
It was a very nice school and high quality education. At Alderson Broaddus you pretty much know everyone. It is a very small campus and mostly all athletes. The teachers that I had the opportunity to hear from were awesome. The only downside of the school is the high cost to go there!
Review Date: 6/26/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
My undergraduate experience at UTA was great. There was plenty of resources within my department to be taken advantage of if students needed any type of assistance. The learning environment was above average with the only drawbacks being large class sizes that meant little one-on-one time for students. Outside of this the educational experience was everything I expected.
Review Date: 12/1/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Amazing school community with great traditions. Great education. Best alumni network in the nation
Review Date: 7/22/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
The dorms are very small and unkept. Some dorms have damages that should be reported immediately as they will charge you for damages you did not do. The only dorms that are nice are the freshman dorms. After that first year the dorms are dingy, dirty and unkept. Beware!!
Review Date: 2/26/2024
Would Recommend: No
Barton College is a small university in the eastern part of North Carolina. The small campus allows you to make a lot of connections with a variety of different majors and professors. While attending Barton as an undergraduate I have had the opportunity to participate in multiple research projects. I have gotten to develop a close relationship with the head of my department and been allowed access to projects that at a larger school would have been more difficult to do. The program is growing and... Read More
Review Date: 7/30/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
The thing I loved the most about Dixie was the individual attention I received from the administration while planning my degree. I am a transfer student from Liberty University Online Business school, so my transfer to an Exercise Science program was complicated to say the least. I also wanted my curriculum to allow me to be eligible for Med school at Ponce in Puerto Rico. The administration at Dixie was incredibly helpful in allowing me to do fit everything in.
Review Date: 3/23/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
My time at BYU has been an outstanding example of true educational value. Students and professors are all of the highest caliber and raise the bar for academic and behavioral excellence a little higher every year. For the amount that the average student pays in tuition and fees, I have a hard time imagining another institution that provides as much by way of resources and high-quality learning experiences for the price. The party scene definitely isn't typical of other universities around the nation... Read More
Review Date: 12/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
I am in a bit of a unique situation, as I am a part of a direct admit physical therapy program. This means that when I applied to SLU for my undergraduate schooling, I also applied to the physical therapy program at SLU. Because of this set up, my senior year of undergraduate school was simultaneously my first year of graduate school-- undergrad courses had to be completed before this point. I have just about completed my first year of grad school, even though I have only attended school for 4 years.... Read More
Review Date: 3/24/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
The professors and faculty at Liberty University give 110% effort to make sure their students succeed. The love and joy of the Lord is so present in the hearts of both the faculty and students at Liberty that it reflected positively on my experience as a student there. While Liberty may be underestimated for being an accredited institution, I think that the faculty is very knowledgeable and educated in the classes they teach and help the students learn as much and as best that they can.
Review Date: 5/1/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I really love going to liberty University. The professors really care and I agree spiritually while I was there. I am very sad to be leaving, but I am excited to be moving on to grad school. I feel that the academics at liberty have affectively prepared me for what is to come .
Review Date: 5/10/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
As a student athlete from Hamline University I had a wonderful undergraduate experience. Being a smaller institution, Hamline University provides you with a unique, personal learning experience. I was able to create personal relationships with professors, advisors and peers who were studying similar subjects. Both the professional and personal relationships I formed during my college experience allowed me to grow in ways I couldnt have imagined. My academic advisors helped me achieve great success... Read More
Review Date: 5/23/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Tennessee State University is an Historically Black College and University in Nashville, TN. There is a great sense of togetherness and love at TSU. The housing is okay it is not the best and the financial aid office could be a lot more timely and organized but I am sure that is the case for a number of different college and University. The department I was in is the Human Performance and Sports Science program. The professors are really helpful and care about your future in that department. It is... Read More
Review Date: 7/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I really enjoyed my time as a student at Lindenwood University, especially in the School of Health Sciences. I decided to pursue my degree in Exercise Science as it would prepare me very well for when I would head into physical therapy school. I loved my time meeting all of the faculty in the Exercise Science program and made so many lasting connections with students and faculty members. They really do want to see you succeed, and if you show them that you are a serious student and put in the work,... Read More
Review Date: 7/10/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I had a lovely experience at Towson. I had many mentors who were able to help me with deciding my career choice and who were also able to help me pursue that career choice. My professors helped me get into my graduate school by writing me letters of recommendation which I will also greatly appreciate. Just like any college, there will always be a few professors who were unsatisfactory, but that will occur at any college, regardless. I would strongly recommend Towson to those who are looking for a... Read More
Review Date: 8/2/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
My time at Ottawa University was amazing to say the least. Each professor I had knew me by name within two weeks of classes. Within my degree program, I worked with same professors. They gained an understanding of how I learned, and they knew the importance of academics to my career choice. They were always willing to help when I reached out to them. But, that is the key. When you show an interest in taking control of your academic career, professors are much more willing to help you. I was always... Read More
Review Date: 8/4/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Overview of Online Bachelor's Degrees in Exercise Science
Exercise science is one of many health sciences that focus on physical fitness and general well-being. An online bachelor's in exercise science can be a smart educational foundation for individuals who want to help others achieve their health, fitness, and sports performance goals. In addition, it can lay the groundwork for further education in a graduate degree program.
Colleges offer online exercise science degrees at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. At the undergraduate level, most programs result in a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Exercise Science. A BS program typically includes specialized courses on the fundamentals of human anatomy, movement, nutrition, and sports psychology. Some programs offer concentrations, such as strength and conditioning, kinesiology, or coaching.
Graduates with online exercise science bachelor's degrees have several career options, many of which require a state-issued license. These include personal fitness trainers, exercise physiologists, physical education teachers, or coaches. Degree holders have also become general or program managers at fitness clubs.
Exercise Science Program Requirements
Online exercise science programs usually require the completion of 120-128 semester credit hours or 180 quarter credit hours. Most full-time students are able to fulfill all of the degree requirements in four to five years, but part-time students may need additional time.
Exercise science programs often include an internship or some other type of supervised, hands-on field placement. These learning experiences give students a chance to gain practical experience and apply what they've learned in their courses. Some programs also require students to complete a capstone project that will help them pull together different theories and concepts in exercise science.
Common Courses for an Exercise Science Degree
Exercise science graduates learn to use body movement to improve people's physical and mental health. There are several subdisciplines within the broad category of exercise science, including health and wellness, exercise physiology, and movement science. Students may choose to major in one of these subjects or incorporate it into an exercise science program as a concentration.
The following are some of the courses commonly included in exercise science online programs:
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Enrollees learn key terms and the functions of the various body systems. Professors emphasize how exercise affects each system and its connections with the others. Many versions of this course include anatomical tests in a laboratory or using a home lab kit.
Kinesiology
To understand healthy exercise habits, students must first learn how bodies move. Kinesiology uses anatomy, physiology, physics, and biochemistry to understand human biomechanics, which is the study of the mechanical processes in human movement. Students usually learn how to evaluate a person's mobility and limitations, along with methods for explaining and improving movement issues.
Legal Issues in Fitness and Sport
Students in this course learn the potential legal concerns of various exercise and health professions. Topics include liability and waivers, promissory language, the intersection between law and ethics, and the defendant's rights in personal injury cases. This course is often taught by a law professor, who can provide real examples of case law.
Nutrition and Performance
This course examines the connection between physical activity and human nutrition. Faculty lecture on nutrients, metabolism, hydration, and digestion. Students design diets for different body types and learn motivational techniques to encourage clients to adhere to a plan. Some courses may include a module on sports nutrition for athletes.
Sports Psychology
In this course, students discover the connections between mind and body in exercise science. Topics include psychological models of motivation, leadership and team dynamics, and the difference between coaching for personal growth versus sports performance enhancement. The course also covers the mental health benefits of regular exercise.
Exercise Science Careers
Students can pursue several exercise science jobs with only a bachelor's on their resume. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), wellness management is a growth industry that revolves around physical activity, health promotion, nutrition, and health education. Trained professionals are needed to encourage healthy patients to maintain their condition and to help patients with chronic illnesses recover. Below are a few career options for exercise science graduates:
Fitness Trainer and Instructor
Fitness trainers work one-on-one with clients to improve their physical fitness and general wellness. They usually meet clients in a fitness facility to assess their performance on exercise equipment and often consult on a nutritional plan. Most personal trainers work for fitness centers or sports complexes but about 22% are self-employed. Fitness trainers can choose certifications from a variety of organizations, such as the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise physiologists work with patients suffering from serious illness or injury, often creating exercise prescriptions or fitness programs that will help with recovery. Their training and certification is less stringent than that of physical therapists because they don't diagnose medical or movement problems. Two organizations certify practitioners, which can improve employment prospects: the American Society of Exercise Physiologists and the American College of Sports Medicine.
Clinical Laboratory Technologist
This career may appeal to students who enjoy the hands-on lab portions of their exercise science degree. Under the supervision of a senior scientist, clinical laboratory technologists test and monitor lab equipment, perform experiments, analyze chemical and tissue samples, and keep meticulous records of their findings. They often find jobs at corporate or university exercise research labs.
Physical Education Teacher
Physical education teachers work with middle school and high school students, teaching them about physical fitness and health. They also typically guide students in learning a number of different team and individual sports. All states require secondary teachers to obtain a state teaching credential, and exercise science graduates may need additional education and teaching experience to qualify.
Is an Online Bachelor's in Exercise Science Worth It?
It's only natural to question whether an online bachelor's degree in exercise science is worth the investment of time and money. The answer depends on your personal responsibilities, finances, and goals. As you weigh your decision, consider which factors matter to you most. A bachelor's degree in exercise science can lead to a rewarding career, but you may also want to consider the negative aspects alongside the positive.
Potential Benefits
- Exercise science graduates often experience a good deal of variety in their work. For example, personal trainers spend little time sitting at a desk but instead move around a gym training individuals or groups. Trainers and exercise physiologists also frequently meet new people and encounter fresh challenges.
- Exercise science alumni can qualify for jobs in fast-growing fields. Lab techs, trainers, and exercise physiologists all enjoy job growth projections above the U.S. average of 5%. The 19% rate for fitness trainers is especially healthy. Graduates who pursue certain advanced degrees also face favorable job markets. For example, physical therapists have a projected growth rate of 17%.
Potential Drawbacks
- Exercise science jobs typically require certification beyond a bachelor's degree. For example, most employers only hire trainers and physiologists who've been certified.
- Many of the highest paying careers in the field call for advanced degrees. Physical therapists provide one example. They must earn a doctoral degree and licensure before they can enter the field, which pays a median wage of $95,620. Again, you should understand that a bachelor's degree in this field may only be the first step toward your ideal career.
How To Choose an Online Exercise Science Bachelor's Program
Choosing an online college program is a major decision, so you'll want to gather as much information as you can before you enroll. Perhaps it's most important to research each school's accreditation status. Our list of the best online exercise science degrees only contains colleges and universities that are accredited. This means that each school's program, faculty, and services have been assessed by an authorized, independent agency and proven to meet national standards for excellence.
Accreditation is an assurance of a quality education, but enrollment in an accredited program is important for other reasons, too. It is required to qualify for financial aid and may be necessary to transfer credits to another school. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college may also be an admission requirement for a graduate program.
It's also possible for professional organizations to review and provide accreditation for individual programs in a specific discipline. For exercise science, the authorized accrediting organization is the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). You can search the CAAHEP directory to find out if the program you're considering is accredited.
You may also want to consider the benefits of enrollment in an exercise science online degree program. Colleges have offered distance learning programs in the sciences for decades, and many students are drawn to the flexibility of online coursework. Asynchronous courses that allow you to access course materials and complete assignments on your own schedule are especially appealing for some students.
However, online learning isn't right for every student. Some online learners miss the interaction of a classroom and the ability to question professors in real time in classrooms or laboratories. In the online environment, you'll also need to arrange to complete your lab coursework at home or at an approved facility near your home. Some exercise science students occasionally report problems with completing lab assignments, even when program advisors send special equipment or authorize a lab near the student's home.
What Else Should You Consider?
Aside from accreditation status and format, there are several other factors to consider when choosing an exercise science program. The cost of earning a degree and your ability to finance your education should both be determined in advance. A 2022 report produced by the College Board states that the average annual tuition fee for four-year public schools is $10,940 and for four-year private schools is $39,400. You'll also need to allow for books and supplies, which the College Board estimates at an annual expense of $1,240.
Cost may also influence your decision to earn an exercise science degree online. Some schools charge lower tuition fees for distance education students, and online students don't need to pay for college room and board or transportation. If you're concerned about saving money on your degree, remember that online learners are just as eligible for financial aid as their on-campus counterparts so be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form.
The application deadlines and admissions criteria of each school on your list may impact your decision as well. Some colleges are more selective and only accept applicants who have earned a high school GPA of at least 2.8 or possibly higher. Also, the most selective schools often set earlier application deadlines. If you're applying to a school with a low acceptance rate, you may need to submit your application as much as a full year before the fall semester when you plan to start.
Would you like to continue your education with an affordable graduate program? Discover your options with our lists of most affordable exercise science master's degrees, affordable nutrition master's degrees, and affordable physical education master's degrees.
FAQs About Exercise Science Degrees
How Much Can I Earn With an Online Degree in Exercise Science?
Your earnings will ultimately depend on the job you choose after graduating. If you become a licensed personal fitness trainer at a gym, for example, the median annual salary is $40,700. If you specialize in exercise physiology — using exercise to help people who are injured or sick to recover — you can earn a median annual salary of $47,940 once you get a license. The highest-paying occupations in this field, such as physical therapist, require additional education.
Can I Become an Athletic Trainer With a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science?
No, you cannot become an athletic trainer with a bachelor's degree in exercise science. Athletic trainers help athletes prevent injuries and quickly treat them when they occur, which calls for specialized knowledge and skills. The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education requires athletic trainers to earn an accredited degree in the discipline, so degrees in exercise science, physical therapy, and strength and conditioning are not acceptable substitutes.
Can I Become a Dietitian With an Exercise Science Degree?
Yes, it may be possible to become a dietitian with a bachelor's in exercise science, especially if you earn a degree with a concentration in nutrition or dietetics. However, you may need to become certified as a dietitian or nutrition specialist to qualify for jobs or to legally practice as a dietitian in your state. If you're interested in dietetics but want to earn a degree in exercise science, be sure to choose a program that will help you prepare to pass the dietitian certification exam.
Is a Sport and Exercise Science Degree Hard?
While a sport and exercise science degree program may be hard for some students, it may be only moderately challenging or even easy for others. Exercise science students must take several physical and applied science courses, including chemistry, anatomy, and nutrition. Because most careers in this field require effective communication with clients, students will also be required to demonstrate their listening and speaking skills.