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 new Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at the University of Michigan-Flint is a smart choice.
The Exercise Science program will prepare you to earn certifications as an exercise physiologist and strength and conditioning specialist. With those national certifications, you can work as an exercise physiologist and develop exercise programs to help clients improve their health and fitness. You will also be prepared to work as a cardiac rehabilitation therapist, fitness center manager, personal trainer and more.
It is also an excellent bachelor’s degree for students interested in graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, athletic training and kinesiology.
Why Choose Exercise Science at UM-Flint?
Get Certified to Jumpstart Your Career
You will be prepared to earn two national certifications:
- Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine
- Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association
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:
You would also be prepared to apply to graduate programs in:
- Athletic Training
- Kinesiology
Get Dynamic Learning Experiences with Experienced Faculty
You will learn from professional clinicians at the top of their field who are ready to share their extensive real-world experience. You will gain hands-on skills through experiential learning in the classroom and with our community. You can participate in HEART, a student-run, pro-bono clinic.
Participate in Research as an Undergraduate Student
You’ll 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
UM-Flint’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science can be completed in four years or through an accelerated three-year program. Courses are offered both face-to-face and online.
You will complete fieldwork and an internship and may choose to participate in research throughout the program.
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 [email protected] or 810-762-3288. You also can make an appointment with her online.
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 the University of Michigan-Flint’s Exercise Science program today to start in Fall 2023 or beyond. If you have questions, contact Jennifer O’Roark, the program’s academic advisor, at [email protected] or 810-762-3288. You also can make an appointment with her online.