If a career in physical therapy, occupational therapy, clinical exercise testing and prescription, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, health-fitness/wellness, strength and conditioning or nutrition is in your future, a Bachelor of Science in exercise science is a perfect fit. This competitive program includes concentrations in pre-health professions, health and wellness, or nutrition, and incorporates coursework from five academic departments spread across two colleges. With an emphasis on preparation for entry into graduate health profession schools in the fields of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician assistant, you will be prepared to successfully enter into graduate health profession schools nationwide. Upon completion of the program, you will also be prepared to sit for certification examinations offered through the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association, and other organizations in the related fields of health and fitness, clinical exercise testing, and strength and conditioning.

With the life expectancy increasing by almost 30 years in the past century, the healthcare system has new demands for corresponding healthcare professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average growth rate for physical therapists, occupational therapists and physician assistants is projected to increase more than 29% from 2012 – 2022. Students enrolled in the exercise science program may be interested in the following careers: Physical Therapist Occupational Therapist Physician Assistant Strength and Conditioning Specialist Personal Trainer Health and Fitness Instructor Exercise Physiologist Dietician