Popular Accredited Exercise Science Degree Programs in Massachusetts [2026 Guide]

Exercise science programs in Massachusetts give you access to strong science based training in human movement, health, and performance. Whether you are looking at the flagship University of Massachusetts Amherst, urban options like the University of Massachusetts Boston, or specialized campuses such as Springfield College, Bridgewater State University, and Lasell University, you can find programs that prepare you for fitness, rehabilitation, and pre professional health careers.

If you need a flexible online path that you can complete from anywhere in Massachusetts, Franklin University also offers a fully online bachelor’s degree in exercise science.

Best Exercise Science Programs in Massachusetts

Listed below are some of the popular schools offering exercise programs in Massachusetts:

• University of Massachusetts Amherst – Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
• University of Massachusetts Boston – Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Health Sciences
• Springfield College – Bachelor of Science in Applied Exercise Science
• Bridgewater State University – Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
• Lasell University – Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
• Franklin University (Online) – Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

To find out how we select colleges and universities, please click here.

University of Massachusetts Amherst

Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology

The Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at University of Massachusetts Amherst focuses on the scientific study of human movement and the role of physical activity in health and disease. The degree is rooted in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and statistics, then builds into advanced coursework in movement science, exercise physiology, and biomechanics.

The program is structured as a traditional four year bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 120 credits for graduation. Within that total, the kinesiology major itself includes roughly 68 credits of foundation, preparatory, and core kinesiology requirements, plus electives that let you explore specialized areas such as exercise psychology, strength and conditioning, therapeutic exercise, and public health related topics.

Early in the program you complete university general education courses alongside preparatory classes in chemistry, calculus, physics, and introductory kinesiology. These courses give you the quantitative and scientific background needed to understand how the body responds to and benefits from physical activity and exercise across the lifespan.

As you move into upper division study, you take a sequence of core kinesiology courses that examine neuromechanics of human motion, anatomy and physiology with labs, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and the relationship between physical activity and public health. Writing intensive and integrative experience courses help you synthesize scientific material and communicate findings to diverse audiences.

The program also encourages you to participate in undergraduate research, sports performance internships, teaching practicums, and peer advising opportunities coordinated by the Department of Kinesiology. These experiences connect classroom learning with hands on work in laboratories, athletic settings, wellness programs, and community health initiatives.

By graduation you will have a strong foundation in movement science, practical laboratory and internship experience, and a resume that can support direct entry into health and fitness roles or competitive applications to graduate programs in fields such as physical therapy, medicine, physician assistant studies, athletic training, public health, and exercise physiology.

Courses and Curriculum

The curriculum begins with the School of Public Health and Health Sciences foundation course and preparatory classes. You take general chemistry, a two course calculus sequence, introductory physics, and introductory kinesiology and nutrition. These courses form the scientific backbone of the degree and develop your ability to work with data, equations, and laboratory measurements.

Once you complete preparatory requirements, you enter the core kinesiology sequence. This includes anatomy and physiology with labs, neuromechanics of human motion, physical activity in health and disease, biomechanics, movement neuroscience, and exercise physiology. You also complete a statistics course and designated upper level writing and integrative experience courses that deepen your ability to evaluate research and communicate scientific information.

In the later stages of your degree you select kinesiology electives and nontraditional electives such as research seminars, independent study, internships, and teaching practicums. These options let you focus on areas like personal training, special populations, obesity and metabolism, therapeutic exercise, or advanced performance training while meeting degree requirements and exploring potential career paths.

Some of the core courses that you will take include:

• KIN 100 – Introduction to Kinesiology: An entry course that introduces the scope of kinesiology as a discipline, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, movement neuroscience, public health, and research methods. You learn about career paths in clinical, fitness, sport, and research settings and begin to see how physical activity influences health outcomes.
• KIN 110 – Human Performance and Nutrition: Examines how nutrition and physical activity interact to influence performance, body composition, and health. The course covers macronutrients, energy balance, hydration, and evidence informed strategies for fueling training and daily life. It also fulfills a biological science general education requirement.
• KIN 270 – Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab: Provides detailed coverage of structure and function in body systems such as skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Laboratory sessions reinforce lecture material through hands on exploration of anatomical models, basic physiological measurements, and application to movement and exercise.
• KIN 272 – Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab: Continues the anatomy and physiology sequence with focus on cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, renal, and other systems essential for exercise performance and health. Lab activities help you understand how these systems respond acutely and adapt chronically to physical activity.
• KIN 236 – Neuromechanics of Human Motion: Integrates neuroscience and mechanics to explain how the nervous system controls movement. You study motor control, coordination, postural regulation, and movement adaptation while using quantitative tools to analyze human motion in different tasks and environments.
• KIN 247 – Physical Activity in Health and Disease: Focuses on the role of physical activity in prevention and management of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and musculoskeletal disorders. You examine epidemiological evidence, public health guidelines, and strategies for promoting activity in communities.
• KIN 430 – Biomechanics: Applies principles of mechanics to analyze human movement. Topics include kinematics, kinetics, forces, moments, lever systems, and energy transfer in activities like walking, running, lifting, and sport skills. You learn to interpret motion data and apply findings to performance and injury prevention.
• KIN 470 – Exercise Physiology: Examines acute responses and chronic adaptations of cardiovascular, respiratory, muscular, and metabolic systems to exercise and training. Laboratory work may include graded exercise testing, measurement of oxygen consumption, lactate responses, heart rate, and other indicators of physiological stress and adaptation.

Popular Elective Courses

• KIN 201 – Introduction to Exercise Psychology
• KIN 215 – Prevention and Care of Athletic Injury
• KIN 245 – Health Fitness Management
• KIN 297E – Foundations of Personal Training
• KIN 341 – Exercise Management for Special Populations
• KIN 380 – Diet, Supplements, and Athletic Performance

Practical Experience

Practical learning is a major focus in the UMass Amherst kinesiology program. Laboratory courses in anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, movement neuroscience, and exercise physiology give you direct experience with motion capture, force measurement, metabolic testing, and other assessment tools used in research and applied practice.

Through kinesiology electives classified as nontraditional credits, you can earn credit for internships, research, and teaching practicums. The department coordinates sports performance internships with campus athletics and community partners, as well as opportunities to assist in research labs focusing on biomechanics, exercise physiology, movement neuroscience, and physical activity promotion.

These experiences allow you to apply classroom material in real settings, work alongside faculty and professionals, and build a portfolio of practical skills. By graduation you will have experience that can be highlighted when applying for jobs, certifications, or graduate programs.

Learning Outcomes

• Explain the scientific foundations of human movement including physiology, biomechanics, motor control, and behavior, and their relevance to health and performance.
• Demonstrate practical skills in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data from movement and exercise assessments in laboratory and field environments.
• Design and evaluate physical activity and exercise programs that are safe, effective, and grounded in current scientific evidence.
• Interpret and apply statistical and quantitative information to answer questions about human movement, health, and performance.
• Communicate scientific concepts in kinesiology clearly and professionally to both specialist and non specialist audiences in written and oral forms.
• Recognize and address issues of equity, inclusion, and access in physical activity, exercise, and health promotion settings.
• Work effectively in interdisciplinary teams that may include health care providers, coaches, educators, and community partners.
• Demonstrate readiness for employment in health, fitness, sport, or research settings or for further education in graduate and professional programs.

Career Preparation & Outcomes

The UMass Amherst kinesiology program prepares you for a wide range of roles in the health and fitness industry, exercise rehabilitation programs, corporate and community wellness, and sport and performance settings. Graduates work as exercise specialists, strength and conditioning coaches, wellness coordinators, health educators, research assistants, and in other entry level positions related to movement and health.

The major is also a common pathway for students aiming at advanced degrees in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, medicine, physician assistant studies, athletic training, public health, and research based exercise physiology. Academic advising and internship connections help you choose electives, experiences, and prerequisite courses that align with your long term goals.

University of Massachusetts Amherst reports a six year graduation rate of about 83.4%, reflecting strong retention, academic support, and student success. This supportive environment, combined with high impact learning opportunities in kinesiology, contributes to positive career and further study outcomes for graduates.

Admissions Requirements

• Submit the Common Application to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, selecting kinesiology as your intended major or exploring it after enrollment.
• Provide official high school transcripts that demonstrate completion of a college preparatory curriculum including mathematics, laboratory sciences, English, and social studies.
• Submit standardized test scores if required under current UMass Amherst test optional policies, or follow instructions for applying without test scores.
• For transfer applicants, provide official transcripts from all colleges attended and meet university and School of Public Health and Health Sciences transfer standards.
• Complete preparatory courses in chemistry, calculus, and physics with the minimum grades specified by the continuation policy to remain in the major.
• Maintain the minimum cumulative and major GPAs required by the university and the kinesiology department for good standing and progression.

Application Deadlines

UMass Amherst offers an Early Action deadline for fall entry, typically in early November, and a Regular Decision deadline in mid January. Students who wish to begin in the spring term usually apply by a mid October deadline.

University of Massachusetts Boston

Bachelor of Science in Exercise & Health Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise & Health Sciences at University of Massachusetts Boston is a traditional in-person undergraduate degree that requires completion of 120 total credits (general education plus major requirements and electives). The major component itself consists of 63 credits across required courses, electives, and an internship or field-experience, designed to give students a solid foundation in exercise science, health, and human movement.

Students begin with foundational courses in human biology, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, chemistry and other sciences, which give a broad understanding of the body’s structure and function – the base needed for later work in exercise, health, and wellness.

Once foundational requirements are completed, the program moves into core exercise-science content: structural anatomy and kinesiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, movement analysis, fitness assessment, and exercise prescription. This ensures a comprehensive education that covers both theory and applied practice.

The curriculum also integrates labs, practical assessments, and applied learning to help you connect academic knowledge with real-world skills. You practice movement analysis, physiological testing, strength and fitness assessments, and learn to design evidence-informed exercise and wellness programs. :

There is flexibility within the degree to tailor elective choices according to your career interests – whether that is clinical exercise physiology, sports performance, public health, wellness coaching, or preparing for graduate/professional studies.

By the time you complete all requirements, including general education, major coursework, and internship/fieldwork, you will leave UMass Boston ready to enter the workforce in health, fitness or wellness fields or move into graduate or allied health professional programs.

Courses and Curriculum

The early portion of the curriculum includes general education classes plus foundational science courses such as biology, chemistry, and human biology or physiology, ensuring you grasp the basics of human structure and physiological function. At the same time you take introductory exercise- and health-related courses that begin exploring human movement, health, and wellness in a broad context.

Once prerequisites and general requirements are satisfied, the major’s core sequence begins. This includes structural anatomy and kinesiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, movement analysis, fitness testing, and exercise prescription classes. The lab-based courses allow you to apply classroom knowledge, conduct assessments, measure physiological responses, and analyze movement and health data.

In the final years, you complete required electives and the mandatory internship or field-experience course. The program gives you flexibility so you can choose electives aligned with your interests – such as strength & conditioning, wellness promotion, rehabilitation, health behavior, or lifestyle coaching – before wrapping up with supervised applied work that consolidates learning in a real setting.

Some of the core courses that you will take include:

• Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II: Provides detailed study of body systems including nervous, muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. You learn how organ systems function, how they respond to stress and activity, and how structure relates to movement and health.
• Structural Kinesiology: Focuses on musculoskeletal anatomy, joint mechanics, muscle function, and how skeletal and muscular systems support movement, posture, strength, and mobility. Useful for exercise prescription, rehabilitation, and performance training.
• Exercise Physiology: Explores acute and chronic physiological responses to exercise including cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory, and neuromuscular adaptations. Lab work involves monitoring and interpreting data such as oxygen uptake, heart rate, metabolic response, and recovery patterns.
• Biomechanics and Movement Analysis: Applies mechanical and kinematic principles to human motion. You study force, torque, lever systems, joint loading, gait, posture, and movement efficiency – key knowledge for injury prevention, movement optimization, coaching, and rehab planning.
• Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription: Teaches standardized protocols to assess aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility, endurance, body composition, and functional movement. Results are then used to design individualized training or rehabilitation plans based on health status, goals, and needs.
• Health, Wellness and Lifestyle Behavior Courses: Covers topics such as nutrition, health promotion, wellness coaching, lifestyle behavior change, and the role of physical activity in chronic disease prevention and wellness across populations.
• Movement & Motor Behavior Courses: Focuses on how people control, learn, and adapt movement – studying motor control, coordination, skill acquisition, neuromuscular adaptation, and the influence of age, health status, or training on movement patterns.
• Internship / Field Experience in Exercise & Health Sciences: A required supervised placement in an approved health, fitness, wellness, or rehabilitation setting. You apply evaluation, programming, coaching, and professional communication skills in a real-world context before graduation.

Practical Experience

The program requires a supervised internship or field-experience as part of major completion. Many students complete placements in fitness centers, wellness clinics, community health programs, rehabilitation clinics, or athletic training facilities in Boston and surrounding areas. During these placements you apply skills such as fitness assessment, exercise prescription, coaching, wellness planning, and client communication – bridging academic learning with applied professional practice.

Laboratory-based courses throughout the earlier part of the degree also provide hands-on experience in anatomy, physiology, movement analysis, and biomechanical assessment using relevant equipment and protocols. This prepares you for both internship placements and future credentials, ensuring you graduate with a strong practical foundation.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics as they relate to movement, exercise, health, and functional capacity across the lifespan.
• Perform valid assessments of fitness, body composition, cardiovascular and muscular function, flexibility, and movement using appropriate protocols and instruments.
• Interpret physiological and biomechanical data to design safe, effective, individualized exercise and wellness programs for healthy individuals and clients with diverse needs.
• Apply knowledge of nutrition, health behavior, and lifestyle factors to support wellness, disease prevention, and long-term adherence to physical activity.
• Communicate scientific and health-related information clearly and professionally in both written and oral formats to clients, peers, and health professionals.
• Demonstrate ethical, culturally responsive, and professional behavior when working with individuals and communities in health, fitness, wellness, or rehabilitation settings.
• Apply evidence-based practice by interpreting research literature, evaluating its validity, and integrating findings into exercise prescription, health promotion, or rehabilitation plans.
• Demonstrate professional readiness and a qualified foundation for entry-level roles in exercise science, fitness, wellness, rehabilitation, or for further study in allied health or graduate programs.

Career Preparation & Outcomes

Graduates of the BS in Exercise & Health Sciences at University of Massachusetts Boston go on to careers in fitness centers, corporate and community wellness, public health promotion, rehabilitation support, strength and conditioning, wellness coaching, athletic training support, and health education roles. The combination of science-based coursework, practical labs, internships, and wellness/health behavior training gives you a versatile foundation for many applied roles in health, fitness, and community health contexts.

For students aiming at advanced credentials or professional degrees, the program is structured to meet common prerequisites for graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, physician assistant studies, public health, and exercise physiology. Research and wellness-promotion electives let you tailor your background to meet academic or clinical prerequisites for further study.

The six-year graduation rate for undergraduates at University of Massachusetts Boston is about 51%. That shows moderate overall completion outcomes and reflects support services and institutional commitment to student success while highlighting that many students may take more than the standard four years to finish.

Admissions Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent with completion of college preparatory coursework in English, mathematics, laboratory science, and social studies to meet university admission standards.
• Submission of an undergraduate application to University of Massachusetts Boston with official high school transcripts and any required materials or fees as per university policy.
• Completion of general education and foundational science prerequisites prior to or early in the first years (courses such as biology, chemistry, anatomy/physiology, chemistry lab, mathematics).
• Maintenance of cumulative GPA and satisfactory grades in major courses; major-core courses (such as anatomy, physiology, core EHS courses) must be passed with at least C- or higher and cannot be pass/fail.

Application Deadlines

University of Massachusetts Boston accepts undergraduate applications on a rolling admission basis. Because some required science and major-core courses are offered at certain times, applying early helps ensure smooth scheduling, access to labs, and timely progression toward degree completion.

Springfield College

Bachelor of Science in Applied Exercise Science

The B.S. in Applied Exercise Science at Springfield College is a 120-credit hour program (including general education, major coursework, labs, electives, and required internships) designed to prepare students for careers in fitness, wellness, rehabilitation, strength & conditioning, and allied health. The major requirements themselves represent roughly 63-64 credits, combined with electives and general university requirements to meet the total credit threshold for graduation.

From the start, students build a foundation in biological sciences, chemistry, physics, anatomy and physiology, and introductory movement or health courses. This strong science base equips you to understand how human physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition support exercise, health, and performance.

As you progress, core courses integrate theoretical learning with hands-on lab work and applied training. You study physiology of exercise, biomechanics, movement analysis, and fitness assessment, adding depth through courses in conditioning, program management, and health-fitness administration.

Track options allow specialization – including strength and conditioning (performance), fitness management/personal training, or clinical/exercise-health pathways. This flexibility helps align your degree with your career goals whether in gyms, rehab clinics, public health, sports, or graduate-health professions.

The program emphasizes practical experience: lab classes, internships, and field placements form a core part of training rather than optional extras. You graduate not just with academic knowledge but with practical experience and professional readiness.

Your final semesters typically include a senior seminar, health/fitness management coursework, and a major internship (often a full-semester placement). This capstone internship ensures that your degree reflects both rigorous academic performance and real world exposure.

Courses and Curriculum

The first year includes foundational general education and science courses such as chemistry survey with lab, physics for movement science (with lab), basic anatomy/physiology concepts, and writing or quantitative reasoning courses. These give you the foundational scientific literacy and quantitative skills to succeed in later exercise science coursework.

In subsequent years you move into specialized exercise science courses such as physiology of exercise, biomechanics and kinesiology, exercise testing and prescription, and movement analysis. Lab versions of these courses allow you to get hands-on experience measuring physiological responses, analyzing human movement, and designing exercise plans.

In the upper levels, the program offers applied courses like health/fitness program management, senior seminar, and a two-part internship sequence. These, along with electives, allow you to tailor your degree toward your interests – whether that is performance training, clinical exercise support, wellness programming, or preparation for graduate and professional study.

• AEXS 313 – Physiology of Exercise: Covers how cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and neuromuscular systems respond acutely to exercise and adapt to chronic training. You learn about energy systems, fatigue, recovery, and training adaptation to design safe exercise plans.
• AEXS 315 – Physiology of Exercise Lab: Provides lab-based experience measuring physiological responses such as heart rate, VO₂, and metabolic data under exercise stress. Helps you practice data collection, interpretation, and apply findings to training or rehabilitation planning.
• AEXS 319 / Kinesiology-Biomechanics: Studies human movement mechanics including joint function, muscle action, force production, leverage and motion analysis. You apply biomechanical principles to optimize movement, reduce injury risk, and improve performance or rehab outcomes.
• PHYS 205 / PHYS 207 – Physics for Movement Science with Lab: Teaches physical principles related to motion, force, energy, and their application to human movement. Strengthens your understanding of biomechanics and movement science by grounding it in physics and motion analysis.
• AEXS 350 – Internship I: Offers supervised practical experience in a fitness, wellness, or health environment. You assist with programming, client evaluation, coaching or rehabilitation support under professional supervision, applying classroom knowledge in real settings.
• AEXS 401 – Management of Health/Fitness Programs: Covers administrative, organizational, and leadership aspects of fitness, wellness, and health-fitness facilities or programs. Prepares you for roles in program coordination, facility management, wellness administration, or health promotion.
• AEXS 410 – Senior Seminar: Integrates all major components – physiology, biomechanics, program design, ethics, and professional practice – often involving project work, case studies, and preparation for certification or graduate school entry.
• AEXS 486 – Internship II (Capstone Internship): Usually a semester-long field placement in an approved setting: rehabilitation clinic, strength and conditioning facility, corporate wellness center, community health program, or athletic performance environment. You design and lead training or health-promotion programs under supervision and build a professional skillset and portfolio before graduation.

Practical Experience

Laboratory courses throughout the curriculum give hands-on experience in physiology tests, biomechanical analysis, movement screening, and fitness measurements-using tools like metabolic carts, motion capture (or biomechanical analysis tools), strength and conditioning equipment, and body composition devices. This prepares you for both clinical and performance-oriented environments and reinforces your technical skills.

The program’s internship sequence is a major advantage: most students complete two supervised placements (first internship and capstone internship) in settings such as gyms, wellness centers, rehabilitation clinics, sport performance facilities, or community health organizations. These placements are often facilitated through Springfield College’s strong network with regional and national employers, giving you a professional portfolio and real-world experience upon graduation.

Additionally, the program encourages involvement in research, community service, or coaching practicums, offering a wider perspective and options for career or graduate-school preparation beyond traditional fitness or clinical roles.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand and explain anatomical, physiological, and biomechanical principles underlying human movement and exercise performance across healthy and special populations.
• Conduct valid and reliable fitness and physiological assessments, including cardiovascular, metabolic, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, functional movement, and body composition measurements.
• Interpret assessment and physiological data and translate them into safe, effective, and individualized exercise, wellness, or rehabilitation programs.
• Apply movement science and biomechanics principles to analyze movement patterns, optimize performance, and minimize injury risk in fitness, sport, or rehabilitation contexts.
• Incorporate behavior change, health-promotion, wellness coaching, and nutritional considerations into program design for clients with diverse goals and needs.
• Demonstrate professional and ethical behavior, effective communication, and cultural sensitivity when working with clients, patients, teams, or community programs.
• Integrate scientific research, evidence-based practice, and critical thinking to evaluate exercise science literature and apply findings in practical settings.
• Show readiness for credible entry-level roles in fitness, wellness, clinical exercise, or strength and conditioning; or for graduate study in allied health, physical therapy, athletic training, or exercise physiology fields.

Career Preparation & Outcomes

Graduates of the Applied Exercise Science program at Springfield College find opportunities in strength and conditioning, personal training, health and fitness management, corporate or community wellness, clinical exercise or rehab support, and wellness coaching or health promotion. Some also enter graduate or professional programs in physical therapy, athletic training, physician assistant studies, sports medicine, public health, or clinical exercise physiology.

Internships and capstone placements, combined with lab experience and optional electives, provide a strong professional foundation – many alumni report that internship positions turned into first jobs and that the program’s applied focus makes them competitive for certification exams and employer hiring.

Springfield College has a six-year graduation rate of about 74%, indicating strong retention and completion outcomes. This suggests that many students successfully complete the program within a reasonable timeframe and graduate with credentials and experience helpful for career entry or further education.

Admissions Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent with a college-preparatory curriculum in mathematics, science (biology or chemistry), English, and social studies or humanities.
• Submission of a completed undergraduate application form and official high school transcripts, along with any required application fees.
• If required under admission policy, submission of standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), though policies may vary due to test optional allowances.
• Maintenance of a minimum cumulative GPA (for example 2.75) and satisfactory grades in science and major coursework to remain in good standing in the Applied Exercise Science major.
• Completion of foundational science prerequisites (biology, chemistry or physics, anatomy/physiology) before starting upper-division major coursework.

Application Deadlines

Springfield College evaluates applications on a rolling basis but recommends submitting well before fall semester intake because of sequencing of science and major courses, lab scheduling, and internship planning. Early application helps ensure placement in required labs and orderly progression through the 120-credit plan.

Bridgewater State University

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at Bridgewater State University is a four year, 120 credit hour degree designed for students pursuing careers in fitness, wellness, strength and conditioning, cardiac rehabilitation, and allied health professions. The program is housed in the Department of Movement Arts, Health Promotion and Leisure Studies, which provides access to classrooms, laboratories, strength and conditioning facilities, and field-based learning sites.

The curriculum begins with general education and foundational science courses in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and introductory movement science. This early scientific preparation supports success in advanced coursework in biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor development, fitness assessment, and exercise programming.

Bridgewater State structures the major to blend theory and practice. In addition to core lecture courses, you complete labs and field experiences that help you develop skills in physiological testing, client evaluation, movement screening, and program development. These experiences are tied to competencies required by certifying bodies in the fitness and exercise professions.

Students can tailor electives toward clinical exercise, personal training, sport performance, physical activity promotion, health behavior change, or pre-professional preparation for graduate study in allied health fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, or exercise physiology.

A required internship or practicum provides supervised experience in clinical or wellness settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports performance facilities, or community fitness programs. This ensures graduates leave with both academic knowledge and documented real-world skills.

By completing the degree requirements, including major coursework, electives, labs, and internship, you graduate with applied experience, professional competencies, and a foundation suitable for direct employment or graduate study in health and fitness related fields.

Courses and Curriculum

During your first year and a half, you complete general education courses alongside foundational classes in human biology, chemistry, psychological science, and introduction to health or movement studies. These courses supply context for understanding human structure, behavior, and scientific reasoning.

Upper division coursework expands into core exercise science areas: physiology of exercise, biomechanics and kinesiology, motor control, movement analysis, and fitness testing and prescription. Many of these courses contain laboratory components allowing you to measure physiological variables and analyze movement in applied contexts.

As you approach graduation, you choose electives that align with your career interests and then complete a required internship. This sequence allows you to apply theoretical knowledge, develop professional communication skills, and build a portfolio of work experience before entering the workforce or applying to graduate school.

Some of the core courses that you will take include:

• EXSC 201 – Introduction to Exercise Science: Provides a professional overview of the exercise science field, introduces major subdisciplines, outlines career pathways, and presents key terminology used in fitness, strength and conditioning, clinical exercise, and wellness sectors.
• BIOL 222 – Human Anatomy and Physiology: Covers structural and functional relationships of major organ systems, focusing on musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems, and their significance for physical activity, training, and rehabilitation.
• EXSC 315 – Physiology of Exercise: Examines how body systems respond and adapt to acute and chronic exercise. Lab experiences include assessment of heart rate, blood pressure, aerobic and anaerobic performance, thermoregulation, and metabolic responses to training.
• EXSC 352 – Biomechanics of Human Movement: Applies mechanical and neuromuscular principles to analysis of human movement. Coursework includes joint loading, lever systems, gait analysis, posture, performance technique, and injury prevention.
• EXSC 401 – Fitness Assessment and Prescription: Introduces protocols for strength, flexibility, cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, and functional movement assessments. You interpret data and design safe, individualized exercise programs for different populations.
• EXSC 410 – Motor Learning and Control: Investigates how humans acquire, refine, and retain motor skills. Focuses on feedback, practice organization, motor development, and factors influencing movement learning across the lifespan.
• EXSC 450 – Exercise Science Internship: A supervised placement in clinical, corporate wellness, sport performance, or community health settings. You gain applied experience performing assessments, writing programs, providing instruction, and communicating with clients and professional staff.
• HLTH 333 – Health Promotion: Studies strategies to encourage physical activity, healthy nutrition patterns, stress management, and lifestyle behaviors that support long term wellness across populations.

Practical Experience

Bridgewater State University integrates practice across the curriculum. Lab courses in physiology, biomechanics, and fitness assessment allow you to conduct cardiorespiratory testing, strength and flexibility assessment, body composition measurement, and movement analysis using standard equipment and protocols.

Internship opportunities connect you with professional supervisors in hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, athletic training centers, sport performance programs, and public health organizations. These placements help refine assessment skills, professional communication, risk management, and client programming strategies while exposing you to potential employers.

Many students complete multiple practicum experiences, participate in research, or assist faculty with community health initiatives, thereby building a diverse professional portfolio before graduation.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of anatomical, physiological, and biomechanical principles related to exercise, health, and human movement.
• Collect, evaluate, and interpret data from standardized fitness and physiological assessments.
• Develop individualized exercise programs for healthy individuals and special populations using evidence based guidelines.
• Integrate psychological, behavioral, and motivational concepts to promote adherence to physical activity and long term wellness.
• Use movement analysis and biomechanics to improve performance, address limitations, and reduce injury risk.
• Communicate effectively with clients, patients, colleagues, and interdisciplinary professionals in fitness and health environments.
• Demonstrate professional ethics, cultural awareness, and responsibility in exercise science practice.
• Show readiness for certification exam preparation and graduate-level training in allied health professions.

Career Preparation & Outcomes

Graduates of the Exercise Science program at Bridgewater State University pursue careers in wellness coaching, personal training, cardiac rehabilitation support, corporate wellness, athletic performance, community health programming, and fitness center management. Many continue to graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, exercise physiology, and related allied health professions.

Internships, advising, and applied coursework help you build professional networks and hands on experience during your final semesters. These experiences support competitive job placement and certification preparation in areas such as strength and conditioning or clinical exercise roles.

Bridgewater State University reports a six year graduation rate of about 60%, reflecting continued student support, retention initiatives, and timely progression toward degree completion.

Admissions Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent that meets Bridgewater State University general admission standards, including coursework in mathematics, English, science, and social science.
• Submission of an undergraduate application with official high school transcripts and required application materials.
• Completion of foundational science and general education courses prior to advancement to upper division exercise science coursework.
• For transfer students, submission of official transcripts from all prior institutions for evaluation of transferable credits.
• Participation in required internship or practicum experiences, which may include background screenings or site specific clearance procedures.

Application Deadlines

Bridgewater State University uses rolling admission for most undergraduate programs. Students are encouraged to apply early to secure placement in required lab and major courses and to allow time for internship planning.

Lasell University

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

The B.S. in Exercise Science at Lasell University is a 120-credit hour program developed to train students for careers in fitness, wellness, strength and conditioning, performance, and allied health fields. The program is delivered by the School of Health Sciences and benefits from a structured curriculum, modern exercise-science labs, and a strong focus on applied learning and certification preparation.

The degree begins with foundational courses in anatomy & physiology, basic sciences, and health-related studies. These early classes build the essential understanding of human structure and function needed for more advanced work in movement, physiology, and performance analysis.

As you progress you take specialized coursework in exercise physiology, biomechanics, functional anatomy, strength and conditioning, movement analysis, and wellness technology. The program emphasizes hands-on training: you work with advanced tools such as VO₂-max testing equipment, force plates, velocity-based training devices, and body-composition analyzers – simulating real-world exercise science environments.

Internships and industry experiences are integrated into the curriculum, giving you direct exposure to fitness centers, performance facilities, rehabilitation clinics, or wellness programs. Through these placements you apply theoretical knowledge to real clients and teams, honing your programming, assessment, coaching, and professional-communication skills.

Electives and flexible tracks let you tailor your studies toward your interests: whether that is clinical exercise, strength and conditioning, health coaching, performance training, rehab support, or preparation for graduate or professional programs in physical therapy, athletic training, or exercise physiology.

At the end of the program you graduate ready for national certification and entry-level roles in fitness, performance, wellness, or allied health – equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical, real-world experience under a recognized 120-credit B.S. framework.

Courses and Curriculum

Your first year typically includes foundational courses in anatomy & physiology, general biology or health sciences, and introductory movement or human performance studies. These build your understanding of basic bodily systems, functions, and how physical activity interacts with health and wellness.

During the second and third years, core courses immerse you in exercise physiology, biomechanics and kinesiology, functional anatomy, strength and conditioning theory, and movement analysis. You also take courses that introduce the technology used in modern fitness and performance assessment – for example labs that use force plates, metabolic testing equipment, body composition instruments, and motion analysis tools. This practical component lets you bridge theory with hands-on application early and often in your training.

In the final year you select elective courses aligned with your interests and complete at least one internship or field experience. This capstone placement provides applied training in real-world settings – gyms, sports performance facilities, rehab clinics, wellness centers, or athletic training programs – helping you consolidate your skills and build a professional portfolio before graduation.

Some of the core courses that you will take include:

• Functional Anatomy & Resistance Training: Covers musculoskeletal anatomy, joint mechanics, muscle function, and resistance training principles. You learn how to design strength training programs, understand muscle mechanics, and apply biomechanical principles to optimize training and reduce injury risk.
• Exercise Physiology: Explores how the cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and neuromuscular systems respond to acute exercise and adapt over time. Lab work includes fitness testing, oxygen consumption measurement, metabolic assessment, and interpretation of physiological responses to training.
• Biomechanics & Human Movement Analysis
  Applies principles of biomechanics and physics to human movement. You study joint function, force production, movement patterns, lever systems, gait analysis, posture, and movement efficiency – all critical for performance optimization, rehab, or corrective exercise.
• Performance Nutrition & Human Behavior: Focuses on how nutrition, lifestyle, and behavior influence performance, recovery, body composition, and long-term health. You learn to integrate dietary planning, wellness coaching, and lifestyle modification into exercise and training programs.
• Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription: Introduces standard assessment protocols for cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, flexibility, functional movement, and body composition. You interpret data and design individualized training or wellness plans tailored to client goals, health status, and performance needs.
• Strength and Conditioning Theory and Application: Studies resistance training methods, periodization, program design for athletes and general populations, recovery strategies, and performance enhancement. You learn how to structure training programs safely and effectively across different populations.
• Health & Wellness Technology and Performance Analytics: Introduces use of modern tools such as VO₂-max testing, force plates, velocity-based training measurement, body composition analyzers, and motion-analysis systems. You learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret performance and physiological data in a professional setting.
• Exercise Science Internship (Applied Field Experience): A required supervised internship giving you real-world experience in fitness, wellness, performance, or rehab settings. You apply assessment, programming, coaching, data-driven analysis, and communication skills in professional environments before graduation.

Practical Experience

Lasell University emphasizes practical, hands-on learning throughout the Exercise Science program. In lab courses you use state-of-the-art technology – VO₂-max testing equipment, force plates, motion analysis tools, and body composition analyzers – to conduct physiological assessments, measure performance variables, and analyze movement. This gives you direct experience with methods and equipment used in industry and research settings.

The program requires at least one industry-relevant internship before graduation. Internships may place you in gyms, strength and conditioning centers, rehabilitation clinics, wellness or corporate health programs, or athletic training facilities in the Boston area. During internships you apply assessment, programming, coaching, and professional communication skills under real working conditions, building a portfolio of applied experience and professional contacts.

These experiential components make the degree highly practical and help ensure that graduates are ready to enter the workforce or pursue further study with relevant hands-on experience and familiarity with professional environments.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics as they relate to movement, exercise, health, and rehabilitation across lifespan and populations.
• Perform valid and reliable assessments of fitness, strength, flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, body composition, and movement patterns using standard protocols and modern lab equipment.
• Interpret physiological and biomechanical data to design safe, effective, individualized exercise, performance, or rehabilitation programs.
• Integrate nutrition, lifestyle, behavior change, and wellness theory into exercise programming to support health, performance, and long-term adherence.
• Use evidence-based and technology-driven methods to monitor performance, track progress, and adjust training plans based on assessment and data analysis.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with clients, coaches, other health professionals, and stakeholders about assessments, programming, and progress.
• Demonstrate ethical, culturally responsive, and professional behavior in exercise science, coaching, rehab, and wellness contexts.
• Be prepared for national certifications in strength and conditioning, personal training, fitness coaching, or exercise physiology; or for graduate studies in allied health, athletic training, physical therapy, or sport science.

Career Preparation & Outcomes

Graduates of the Exercise Science program at Lasell University are prepared for careers as personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, performance and wellness specialists, fitness consultants, rehabilitation support staff, health and wellness coaches, and corporate or community wellness coordinators. Many also go on to graduate or professional programs in physical therapy, athletic training, exercise physiology, or related health fields.

Through internships, access to industry-grade lab technology, small class sizes, and strong faculty mentorship, students build professional portfolios and practical skills valued by employers and graduate admissions committees alike. Lasell University reports a six-year graduation rate of about 64.5%, indicating good institutional support for degree completion and student success.

Admissions Requirements

• Completion of high school diploma or equivalent with coursework in mathematics, science (biology or chemistry), English, and social studies.
• Submission of a completed undergraduate application (Common Application or Lasell application), with official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and required personal statement or essay.
• Demonstrated academic readiness in science and mathematics – foundation courses like biology, chemistry or physics, and mathematics must be completed with satisfactory grades before starting upper-division exercise science coursework.
• Ability and willingness to participate in labs, physical assessments, and internship field placements, including compliance with safety and site-specific requirements when applicable.
• For transfer students, submission of official transcripts from all prior institutions and evaluation of transferable credits to meet foundational and general education requirements.

Application Deadlines

Lasell University typically uses rolling admission for its undergraduate programs. Applicants are encouraged to submit their application early, especially for fall or spring start terms, to allow sufficient time for placement planning, course sequencing, and acceptance into required labs and internship opportunities.