Bachelor’s in Exercise Science at KU

Program Overview

The bachelor's degree in exercise science at the University of Kansas provides students with a thorough understanding of the human body and prepares them to work in health-related professional fields. The program's coursework focuses on varying areas including: physiology of exercise, motor control, biomechanics, and rehabilitative exercise. Students are able to complete an approved hands-on internship experience, or choose to pursue a program track full of approved elective courses.

Career Outcomes in Exercise Science

The exercise science program prepares students for a wide range of career paths after graduation, including a variety of health sciences: nursing, chiropractic studies, medicine (physician assistant, medical doctor, etc.), athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy or dietetics. Graduates may work in agencies that dispense health- and fitness-related programs, such as commercial or private health and fitness centers, hospital exercise and cardiac rehabilitation programs, and corporate fitness centers, or apply for graduate study in exercise physiology. Students who aspire to pursue careers in exercise science with their bachelor's degree are likely to accept positions with titles similar to the following, though some may require additional education or licensure/certification:

Exercise/fitness instructor
Personal trainer
Clinical exercise physiologist
Injury prevention specialist
Sport medicine specialist
Strength and conditioning coach
Sport scientist

Related Programs

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Career Statistics

$48K salary

Graduates can expect a median starting salary of $48,000 in Kansas, according to salary.com.

Preparation for professional programs

Coursework prepares students to meet pre-requisite requirements for many professional school programs including the physical therapy program at KU Medical Center.

Elective options

Students have the flexibility to develop expertise in specific areas through a variety of elective course options.

Graduate study

Those who choose to pursue an advanced degree after graduation are considered for many highly-selective master's & doctoral programs across the U.S.

Thinking about exercise science?

Let us know you’re interested in the program. We would love to connect with you to discuss the program’s curriculum, steps necessary for admission to KU, and what to expect during the professional program.

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Program Details & Admission Requirements

"The exercise science program opened my eyes to a broad and exciting field of study. Not only did I learn how exercise influences our bodies on the anatomical and physiological level, but I was also immersed in fascinating research spanning diverse populations including elite athletes. This major provided me with a strong foundation of knowledge for graduate school and a career in physical therapy."

Alex Rockey

Class of 2024

#11

Public School of Education & Human Sciences

82%

Employed in degree field

56%

Obtained further education

Student LifeView as gallery page

As students, we shine. As Jayhawks, we rise. Life on campus includes more than academics. Students in the School of Education and Human Sciences are engaged, involved learners.

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Undergraduate Research

Students who want to support a faculty member’s research agenda or even design their own project have access to experiences through the Osness Human Performance Laboratories.

Center for Community Outreach

Students can participate in collaborative partnership and service programs that address needs and empower the community through education and advocacy.

School of Education & Human Sciences

Email:

soehsambassadors@ku.edu

Joseph R. Pearson Hall , Rm. 221

1122 West Campus Rd.

Lawrence , Kansas 66045-3101

NSCA recognition program award

The exercise science program at the University of Kansas is a designated Education Recognition Program through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Explore the NSCA