Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
Study the science of exercise and its impact on health at the University of Michigan-Flint. Through classroom, laboratory, and internship activities, the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science provides students with the tools needed to be expert practitioners and scientists in the exercise science field.

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Exercise Science with a Michigan Difference
This program combines the science of human movement with practical, hands-on learning. Students gain the knowledge and skills to promote health, prevent disease, and support injury rehabilitation through physical activity while mastering exercise testing and evidence-based exercise prescription.
Career Paths
The program offers advising for career tracks within Exercise Science, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Athletic Training, Chiropractic, Strength and Conditioning and Personal Training, Exercise Physiology and Cardiac Rehabilitation, Corporate Wellness, Physician Assistant and Medicine.
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Why Choose Exercise Science at UM-Flint?
Gain a Strong Foundation for Graduate School
The Bachelor’s in Exercise Science provides an excellent foundation for applying to graduate programs, including some of UM-Flint’s world-class graduate programs:
The program also prepares students for graduate programs in:
- Athletic Training
- Chiropractic
- Exercise Science and Strength and Conditioning
Dynamic Learning with Experienced Faculty
The program includes several opportunities, such as classroom learning, laboratory exercises, hands-on practical training, reviewing current journal articles, a required 180-hour internship, and community involvement. Students will learn from professional clinicians at the top of their field who are ready to share their extensive real-world experience. Students will gain hands-on skills through experiential learning in the classroom and with our community. Students can participate in HEART, a student-run, pro bono clinic.
Earn a National Certification
Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association
Certified Personal Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine
Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine
Participate in Research as an Undergraduate Student
Students will have the option to conduct research through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program or the Summer Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. In a paid or volunteer role, you can develop your research skills while working side-by-side with faculty on state-of-the-art research.
Schedule a Tour
See the Exercise Science facilities and meet the program director, Curt Fennell

Free Tuition with the Go Blue Guarantee!
UM-Flint students are automatically considered, upon admission, for the Go Blue Guarantee, a historic program offering free tuition for high-achieving, in-state undergraduates from lower-income households. Learn more about the Go Blue Guarantee to see if you qualify and how affordable a Michigan degree can be.
Curriculum Overview
If you are interested in the science of movement and physical activity and its impact on health, the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at the University of Michigan-Flint is a smart choice.

UM-Flint is an Exercise is Medicine® On Campus university. Our mission is to elevate physical activity as a vital sign of health and to promote Exercise is Medicine® in diverse environments. We aim for every student to graduate healthier than when they began their studies, equipped with the knowledge and passion to advocate for regular physical activity and to support the systematic assessment and promotion of physical activity in health care.
Career Outlook
Demand for exercise physiologists is projected to grow by about 9 percent through 2031. More information about careers in exercise physiology is available from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
You will also be prepared to apply to a graduate program and train to work as a physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician assistant or athletic trainer.
$95,620
Physical therapists earn a median salary
Jobs for physical therapists should grow by 17 percent through 2031, the BLS projects, more than three times the rate for all jobs.
$85,570
Occupational therapists earn a median salary
Demand for occupational therapists should increase by 14 percent through 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
$121,530
Physician assistants earn a median salary
Job growth for physician assistants, who practice medicine as part of health care teams, should be 28 percent through 2031.
Admission Requirements
The Exercise Science degree and the national certifications will prepare you to work as an exercise physiologist, cardiac rehabilitation therapist, wellness coach, fitness center manager, fitness sales agent and personal trainer, among other careers.
Demand for exercise physiologists is projected to grow by about 9 percent through 2031. More information about careers in exercise physiology is available from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
You will also be prepared to apply to a graduate program and train to work as a physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician assistant or athletic trainer.
Academic Advisor
Scholarships
Besides being eligible for financial assistance through UM-Flint’s Office of Financial Aid, you can apply for UM-Flint scholarships that are specifically for College of Health Sciences students.
Numerous scholarships are available to CHS students, each with its own requirements. They’re made possible through generous donations to the College of Health Sciences.