Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
Study the Science of Exercise and Its Impact on Health
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.
The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at UM-Flint provides students with education in the science of movement and in how to help others prevent and rehabilitate from disease and injury through physical activity. In addition, skills are taught that provide students with the tools for exercise testing and prescription using science-based techniques.
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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.
Why Choose Exercise Science at UM-Flint?
The Exercise Science program prepares students for graduate work and to earn national certifications as a personal trainer, exercise physiologist, and strength and conditioning specialist.
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
Earn a National Certification
- Certified Personal Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine
- Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine
- Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association
Dynamic Learning with Experienced Faculty
There are several opportunities the program includes, such as classroom learning, exercise laboratory experiences, hands-on practical training, reviewing current journal articles, a required 300-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.
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.
Bachelor’s in Exercise Science Curriculum
Review the detailed Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science curriculum.
Scholarships for Exercise Science Students
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.
Career Opportunities in Exercise Science
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 to a graduate program and train to work as a physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician assistant or athletic trainer.
Physical Therapists
Jobs for physical therapists should grow by 17 percent through 2031, the BLS projects, more than three times the rate for all jobs. Physical therapists earn a median salary of $95,620 annually.
Occupational Therapists
Demand for occupational therapists should increase 14 percent through 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median wage for the profession is $85,570.
Physician Assistants
Job growth for physician assistants, who practice medicine as part of health care teams, should be 28 percent through 2031, the BLS says. The median pay for PAs is $121,530 annually.
Academic Advising for Exercise Science Majors
Understanding program requirements, choosing classes, and other aspects of attending college can sometimes seem overwhelming. UM-Flint’s expert academic advisors can answer your questions and help steer you on the path to academic success.
Jennifer O’Roark is the dedicated academic advisor for this major. You can contact her at jeallen@umich.edu or 810-762-3288. You can also schedule an appointment with Jennifer O’Roark
Get Started on Your Exercise Science Career Today
If you want to meet the growing demand for exercise physiologists or prepare for a graduate program in physical therapy, occupational therapy or physician assistant, apply to UM-Flint’s Exercise Science program today. If you have questions, contact Jennifer O’Roark, the program’s academic advisor, at jeallen@umich.edu or 810-762-3288. You can make an appointment with her online.
Schedule a Tour
See the Exercise Science facilities and meet the program director, Curt Fennell at cfennell@umich.edu.
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.