Program Overview
The exercise science degree at the University of Kansas prepares students with a strong foundation in human movement, sports performance, and health-related fitness. This program blends scientific theory with hands-on application, equipping students with the skills needed to enhance physical performance, reduce injury risk, and promote lifelong wellness across diverse populations.
Students pursuing an exercise and sports science degree build expertise in biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control, nutrition, and evidence-based exercise prescription. Coursework emphasizes how the body responds and adapts to physical activity, preparing graduates to design safe, effective programs for individuals of all ages and ability levels. With options to pursue either a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) or a Bachelor of Science (BS), this exercise science degree offers flexibility to align with career aspirations in healthcare, human performance, and advanced study.
The BAS pathway focuses on applied practice and experiential learning, ideal for students seeking immediate entry into exercise science careers in fitness, performance, and community wellness settings. The BS pathway emphasizes research methodology, laboratory experience, and scientific inquiry, making it well suited for students planning to pursue graduate or professional programs such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, medicine, or other health-related fields. Both pathways within the exercise science major prioritize critical thinking, ethical practice, and professional preparation.
Students learn to evaluate physical performance, assess functional movement, and interpret physiological data. Graduates develop the analytical and practical skills necessary to work in clinical, corporate, educational, and sport-performance environments. Whether entering the workforce directly or continuing their education, students leave the exercise science degree program prepared to support health, performance, and human movement across the lifespan.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Exercise Science, BSSchool of Education and Human Sciences
The Bachelor’s in Exercise Science is part of the School of Education and Human Sciences, preparing educators and human science professionals of the future.Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the exercise science degree will be able to:
- Explain acute and chronic physiological responses and adaptations to physical activity and structured exercise.
- Design and implement evidence-based exercise programs for diverse populations using principles grounded in exercise science.
- Apply biomechanical and motor control concepts to analyze movement and improve performance.
- Demonstrate professional skills in injury prevention, risk reduction, and basic rehabilitation strategies.
- Interpret and apply scientific research to inform decision-making and professional practice.
- Communicate effectively and ethically within health, fitness, and performance settings.
These outcomes ensure that students completing the exercise and sports science degree are prepared for both professional roles and graduate-level study.
What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science?
An exercise science degree opens the door to a wide range of professional pathways. Common exercise science careers include:
- Personal Trainer
- Strength and Conditioning Coach
- Rehabilitation Specialist
- Health and Wellness Coach
- Clinical Exercise Physiologist
- Sports Performance Specialist
- Corporate Wellness Coordinator
Students exploring jobs with exercise science degree preparation often pursue roles in hospitals, private fitness facilities, collegiate or professional athletics, rehabilitation clinics, community health organizations, and corporate wellness programs. According to data from Lightcast, career outcomes for related fields show strong demand in health and fitness occupations, with competitive exercise science degree salary potential depending on role, experience, and advanced credentials. Many students also use the exercise science major as a stepping stone toward graduate programs that expand long-term earning potential and professional scope.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities for exercise science students. Please visit KU Financial Aid and Scholarships for more details.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the exercise science degree must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA (on a 4.0 scale) OR
- An official ACT score of at least 21 or an official SAT score of at least 1060 with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Transfers
- Have a 2.75 KU + Transfer Cumulative GPA
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experience
Students enrolled in the exercise science degree program engage in experiential learning that bridges classroom knowledge with real-world application. Opportunities include:
- Laboratory-based research in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and motor performance
- Internships with athletic teams, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community wellness programs
- Community engagement initiatives promoting physical activity and public health
- Participation in the Exercise Science Club for networking and professional development
- Research projects in human performance laboratories
- Study abroad experiences focused on global health, movement science, and sport
- Intramural and recreational sport opportunities that reinforce applied learning
Through these experiences, students in the program build professional networks and gain practical skills that strengthen readiness for exercise science major jobs and advanced study.
Sample Courses
Coursework within the exercise science degree may include:
- Fundamentals of Human Anatomy
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
- Neuromuscular Physiology and Motor Control
- Psychosocial Aspects of Exercise
- Principles of Nutrition and Health
These courses provide the scientific and applied foundation central to the program and prepare students for diverse exercise science careers in health, fitness, and performance settings. For more information, please visit the KU Catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.