Exercise Science, BS
Program Quick Facts
Credits
120
Start Terms
Fall
|Spring
Available
On Campus
Tuition
$8,956.50
estimated cost per semester
Help others discover how to lead healthier lifestyles, reduce chronic diseases, and enhance athletic performance by exploring exercise science. Our Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, allowing students to work in laboratories and local facilities. This professional degree prepares students for careers in the growing fitness and wellness industry, with the flexibility to tailor their education to align with individual goals, whether in corporate fitness, community wellness, or further graduate studies.
Choose your area of study
The fitness management specialization is great for students who are wanting to work in a fitness center as a personal trainer or a management role of a fitness or community center. This specialization will prepare students in business, leadership, and operational management within the fitness industry. It will give students both fitness knowledge and management skills to lead and operate wellness-focused organizations while increasing their marketability. This could look like employment with companies like Great Life, Sanford Wellness, Avera fitness, Anytime Fitness, Cross-fit, Crunch fitness, Lifetime Fitness, and our local Madison Community Center.
This specialization emphasizes on foundational sciences, biomechanics, physiology, and other prerequisites that are commonly required for admission into medical programs and professions, like physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic, nursing, and more. This Pre-Professional Specialization will prepare students for graduate-level and professional programs to help advance their careers in health-related fields.
This specialization will equip students with a thorough and professionally aligned coursework in strength and conditioning, sport science, and human performance training. It will enhance eligibility for National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) accreditation and strengthen preparation for careers in strength and conditioning.
This pathway goes beyond the scope of the current minor and provides students with a more rigorous and well-rounded academic experience specific to human performance. It includes an opportunity for internships that will help students build their resume with hands-on field experience and to start expanding their professional network.
This specialization is great for students wanting to work with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) as well as private fitness training, similar to personal training, but with a focus on athletic development.
Exercise science curriculum & experience highlights
Biomechanics lab
The biomechanics lab provides students with hands-on experience in analyzing human movement through modern assessment tools and biomechanical principles. In this lab, students explore neuromuscular function, gait patterns, and fundamental movement techniques while applying analytical skills to evaluate performance and identify injury risks. Through real-world data collection and interpretation, the lab prepares students to make informed decisions in athletic, clinical, and research settings.
Pursue a double major for enhanced experience
With intentionally coordinated curricula, students can double major in biology and exercise science. Expand your opportunities, prepare for professional programs, and explore multiple interests. At DSU, you can fully pursue your passions and career goals.
Your path to professional school
DSU’s exercise science program prepares students for a variety of healthcare careers through hands-on learning, personalized advising, and strong foundations in human performance and wellness. Students can tailor their coursework to fit different pre-professional pathways, including nursing, through DSU’s partnership with South Dakota State University. Because the programs are aligned, your general education and prerequisite courses at DSU already meet SDSU’s nursing admission requirements, allowing for a seamless transition into the application process for SDSU’s Accelerated BSN program.
Why choose DSU for exercise science?
Cutting-edge technology at your fingertips
At DSU, you’ll train with the same advanced tools used in professional athletic, clinical, and research settings. Our technologies elevate your learning experience and prepare you for success in graduate school and the workforce:
- NeuroTracker Technology
- Dartfish® Motion Analysis Software
- SRM (Sensorimotor Rhythm) Training System®
- ParvoMedics® 2400 Metabolic System
- AMTI Portable Force Platform
- MotionMonitor Software System
Faculty
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Career possibilities with a degree in exercise science
DSU alumni have gone on to pursue a wide range of advanced degrees, including doctoral programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and chiropractic care, as well as master’s programs in athletic training, exercise science, nutritional sciences, and accelerated nursing. With an undergraduate degree in exercise science, the opportunities are endless. You can choose to continue your education through graduate or professional school, or jump straight into your career and start making an impact right away.
