Exercise Science, B.S.
Undergraduate Degree
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Program Overview

Exercise science is a multidisciplinary scientific field that focuses on the study of the human body, and how its anatomical, biomechanical, biochemical, and physiological aspects relate to exercise. Marshall University’s Exercise Science bachelor’s degree program will train you to help people improve their health and wellness through physical activity, ranging from conducting fitness training with a college sports team to practicing exercise physiology in a healthcare setting.

The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Exercise Science at Marshall University, in Huntington, West Virginia, equips students to work professionally with individuals, athletes, and people with health challenges. The Exercise Science degree program includes courses in Basic Science, Basic and Clinical Exercise Physiology, Biochemistry in Exercise, Biomechanics, Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription, Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning, and an internship in applied or clinical exercise physiology.

Students enrolled in Marshall University’s Exercise Science bachelor’s degree program gain hands-on experience with exercise physiology and fitness assessment in state-of-the art Exercise Physiology Laboratories (MUEPL) at our Huntington campus.

Careers with an Exercise Science degree. Marshall graduates become exercise specialists, directing cardiac and rehabilitative programs, and leading personal training in strength and conditioning. Marshall graduates in Exercise Science also pursue other professional healthcare careers (medical, physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, etc.) or go on to graduate school.

The Exercise Science program comprises two areas of emphasis, which include Clinical Exercise Physiology, and Applied Exercise Physiology.

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“I love how Marshall is a community and everyone has a place here.”
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Featured Courses
ESS 375 - Fitness Assess & Exercise Prescription
Focuses on the processes and procedures of physical fitness evaluation and prescription. Emphasis is placed on the design of individual and group exercise programs.
ESS 442 - Principles of Strength & Conditioning
Application of strength and conditioning principles in the development and administration of sport-based exercise programs. Emphasis on the teaching of flexibility, powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and speed and agility programs.
PSY 440 - Physiological Psychology
The relationships between physiological functions and biochemical processes and behavior.
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Program Highlights
Quality Insruction

Because of relatively small class sizes, Exercise Science majors gain valuable hands-on experience, quality face-to-face instruction and individual attention. Exercise Science faculty in the School of Kinesiology are well-trained with specialized knowledge and experience in such areas as clinical exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, and muscle biology.

Comprehensive Training

Because of relatively small class sizes, Exercise Science majors gain valuable hands-on experience, quality face-to-face instruction and individual attention. Exercise Science faculty in the School of Kinesiology are well-trained with specialized knowledge and experience in such areas as clinical exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, and muscle biology.

Recognized Excellence

Marshall University is the first program in West Virginia to earn gold-level recognition from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) for our program, Exercise is Medicine® on Campus (EIM-OC)/ This ACSM initiative calls upon universities and colleges to encourage faculty, staff and students to work together toward improving the health and well-being of the campus community.

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Career Opportunities
As of May 2020, the median annual wage for exercise physiologists was $50,280; $40,510 for fitness trainers and instructors; and $49,860 for athletic trainers. Employment growth in Exercise Science careers will come from the continuing emphasis on exercise to combat obesity and encourage healthier lifestyles for people of all ages, as well as increased awareness of exercise as prevention and treatment for many chronic diseases.
  • Exercise Physiologist
  • Personal Trainer
  • Athletic Coach
  • Group Fitness Instructor
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