Exercise Science Program (Bachelor of Science)

GMercyU's Exercise Science Program takes a scientific and multidisciplinary approach to developing knowledge and skills in the areas of human physiology and movement, exercise, nutrition, occupational therapy, and public health. 

As an Exercise Science major at GMercyU, you'll benefit from: 

• Our low 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• Courses taught by experienced faculty members — no teaching assistants at GMercyU!
• State-of-the-art learning facilities, including a new academic building opening in 2025 (see below to learn more)
• Real-world clinical experiences in a variety of specialties and settings 
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary education and collaboration
• The Griffin Edge, which will help you connect the dots between your GMercyU experiences and your future aspirations, so you can ace future job interviews and launch a successful career in an exciting field!

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree requires the completion of 125 credits.

Curriculum to be posted soon! Students will take courses in human physiology, biomechanics, sports psychology, nutrition, motor learning, physical fitness and conditioning, health and wellness studies, and occupational science.

Here are just a few of the courses you'll take as an Exercise Science major at GMercyU:

EXS 200: Introduction to Exercise Science
This course provides an introductory exploration into the field of Exercise Science, focusing on the physiological, biomechanical, and psychological foundations of human movement and physical activity. Students will examine the fundamental principles underlying exercise prescription, fitness assessment, and the promotion of health through physical activity.

EXS 300: Kinesiology
This course provides a comprehensive overview of kinesiology, the scientific study of human movement. Students will explore the principles of biomechanics, anatomy, physiology, and motor behavior that underpin physical activity and exercise. Students will gain an understanding of how the body moves, how physical activity affects health and performance, and how to apply this knowledge in various contexts, including sports, rehabilitation, and fitness.

EXS 350: Physiology of Exercise
This course explores the acute and chronic physiological responses and adaptations to physical activity and exercise. This course delves into the mechanisms underlying the body's responses to exercise, covering topics such as energy metabolism, cardiovascular and respiratory function, neuromuscular physiology, and endocrine responses. Students will examine the principles of training, the impact of environmental factors on performance, and the role of exercise in health and disease prevention.

PSY-305 Health Psychology
Students will study the application of psychological principles to health and wellness. Topics will include illness perception and prevention, health enhancing and health compromising behaviors, the effects of stress on health, patient provider interactions, factors influencing utilization of health services and the management of chronic illness.

PUB-200 Health Behavior and Health Education
This course will examine the relationship between behavior and health and explore the many factors that affect health behaviors including the social determinants. Health behavior theories will be explored to understand underlying causes of individual and community behavior. Students will explore strategies for affecting and changing behavior as a strategy for protecting or promoting health.

OSC-302 Neuroscience of Occupational Behavior
An examination of the intersection of neuroscience, cognition, and occupation across the lifespan.

NUT-200 Principles of Nutrition
A comprehensive course that covers the essentials of optimum nutrition in health and disease. It includes macro-nutrients and energy metabolism; vitamins and minerals; nutrition and diet for the client. The course includes an examination of clinical nutrition as it pertains to care of clients in a health care setting.

This program employs a holistic and integrated approach to prepare students for careers in athletics, occupational and physical therapy, public health, fitness and wellness, nutrition, and more.

Top Jobs for Exercise Science Majors

Athletic Training
Description: According to the National Athletic Trainers' Association, athletic training "encompasses the prevention, examination, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of emergent, acute or chronic injuries and medical conditions. Unlike personal trainers, ATs follow a medical-based education model and are licensed or otherwise regulated in 49 states and the District of Columbia."
Average Salary: The average salary for an athletic trainer in the U.S. is $57,930, with the highest 10% earning more than $80,640. 
Job Outlook: Job growth for athletic trainers is projected to increase by 14% through 2032, more than four times the national average.

Exercise Physiologist
Description: These healthcare professionals provide health education and exercise plans to help patients (which may include athletes) to improve their respiratory, circulatory, and other systems. Some exercise physiologists work directly with primary care physicians, who may refer patients to exercise physiologists for exercise plans.
Average Salary: The average salary for an exercise physiologist in the U.S. is $54,860, with the highest 10% earning more than $77,680. 
Job Outlook: Job growth for exercise physiologists is projected to increase by 9% through 2032, more than three times the national average.

More career pathways include:

• Exercise and Personal Training
• Cardiac rehabilitation
• Physical or Occupational Therapy
• Wellness and Health Coaching
• Recreation Coordinator
• Health Education
• Sport Scientist
• Health and Exercise Research

• Athletic Training
• Nursing
• Physical Therapy
• Physician Assistant
• Occupational Therapy
• Orthotics & Prosthetics