Exercise & Sport Science

An exercise and sports science degree is a program that combines your passion for sports with critical analytical, evaluative, and management skills. In this program, you’ll study areas like exercise physiology, biomechanics, and sports psychology, all designed to equip you with the knowledge to help others achieve their healthiest lives. Graduates can pursue careers ranging from strength training in the sports industry to leading community fitness classes.

An exercise and sports science degree typically takes four years to complete if pursued as a full-time bachelor’s program. This duration includes fulfilling general education requirements alongside your major-specific courses. Transfer credits and prior learning can potentially shorten this timeline.

Yes, you can earn an exercise and sports science degree online. Many institutions, including the University of the Cumberlands, offer flexible online options that allow you to complete the program at your own pace while still receiving the same quality education as on-campus students.

An exercise and sports science degree is worth it if you are passionate about fitness, health, and sports. The degree prepares you for various rewarding careers in the growing fitness industry, with opportunities in areas such as sports medicine, athletic training, and fitness coaching. The skills and knowledge gained are applicable in numerous professional settings, making it a valuable investment in your future.

With an exercise and sports science degree, you can pursue various careers, including becoming a fitness trainer, coach, or athletic scout. Other opportunities include roles as a postsecondary instructor, fitness equipment sales manager, or camp activities instructor/director. This degree opens doors to diverse positions within the fitness and sports industry.

To get an exercise and sports science degree, you need to enroll in a bachelor’s program at a university that offers this major. You’ll complete courses in areas like exercise physiology, biomechanics, and sports psychology, alongside general education requirements. Some programs also offer online study options, making it easier to balance your education with other commitments.

Whether it's better to major in kinesiology or exercise science depends on your career goals. Kinesiology typically focuses more on the study of body movement and may be broader in scope, while exercise science is more specialized in areas like sports performance, fitness, and health. Both degrees offer valuable skills, but your choice should align with your specific interests and career aspirations.

Yes, exercise and sport science can be considered a STEM field as it involves the scientific study of human movement, exercise physiology, and biomechanics. These areas rely on the application of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics principles, making the degree relevant to STEM education.

Exercise and sports science can be a challenging degree as it involves a blend of rigorous scientific study and practical application. Courses in biomechanics, exercise physiology, and sports psychology require a solid understanding of complex concepts, but with dedication and passion for the field, it is manageable and rewarding.