Department of Kinesiology
Explore the Exercise Science Option
Starting Fall 2020, all freshmen interested in Exercise Science will need to apply
to the Pre-Health Program. Upon successful completion of the Pre-Health Program, students
can apply to Kinesiology - Exercise Science. More information is available here.
Exercise science is the study of how the human body responds to physical exercise. It draws on various disciplines, including biomechanics, sports nutrition, behavioral strategies, exercise program design, and sport psychology. Exercise science is a fast-paced and exciting option that will prepare students for entry-level careers in fitness, wellness, health promotion, human performance, and preventive and rehabilitative sciences.
Through this option, students will gain the knowledge and preparation necessary to pursue graduate study in areas of exercise physiology, biomechanics, health promotion, and fitness and wellness. It is the ideal choice for students wanting to prepare for admission to advanced clinical programs, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic, physician assistant, and medical school. This option enables students to fulfill prerequisites, while at the same time obtaining a bachelor's degree.
Flexible and personalized educational and career development strategies are hallmarks of this program. Faculty in the option provide instruction and advising that is based upon extensive practical and professional experience.
Careers in the Field
It is unlikely that you have heard of, or will find a job titled, “exercise scientist” or “kinesiologist”. However, there are many jobs available for individuals who have prepared themselves with a college degree in Kinesiology - Exercise Science. Recent jobs held by graduates include:
Personal Fitness Trainer or Instructor:
- Chain and locally-owned fitness clubs
- University fitness facilities
- Resorts and spas
- Medical fitness facilities
Strength and Conditioning Coach or Specialist:
- High school
- Community college
- University
- Professional
- Olympic training centers
High school – science classes, sport coaches:
- Community college – kinesiology, science classes
- University – kinesiology
Other Career Options inlcude:
- Management of fitness clubs/facilities
- Worksite/employee wellness-health promotion programs
- Clinical exercise physiologist
A degree in exercise science is often pursued by individuals who are attempting to meet pre-requisite course and degree requirements for admission to graduate or professional training programs. Some of the jobs that require this professional training after earning a degree in exercise science, include:
- Medicine/physician
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Chiropractor
- Physician assistant
- Physical therapy assistant
- Occupational therapy assistant
- Respiratory therapist
- Prosthetic/orthotic fabrication specialist
Marketability and advancement within these professions can be enhanced by additional certification through such organizations as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Completion of the degree in the Exercise Science Option is designed to prepare students to successfully complete most of these certification processes. Learn more about each below:
- American College of Sports Medicine / www.acsm.org
- National Strength & Conditioning Association / www.nsca.com
- National Strength & Conditioning Association-Certification Site / www.nsca-cc.org
- American Society for Exercise Physiologist / www.asep.org
- American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance / www.aahperd.org
- American Association for Cardiovascular ad Pulmonary Rehabilitation / www.aacvpr.org
- American Physical Therapy Association / www.apta.org
- American Academy of Physician Assistants / www.aapa.org
Learn about our Curriculum
The Exercise Science Option provides a comprehensive foundation in the biological, physical, and technological sciences which fully prepares students for graduate study and professional careers in the field.
- K1
- K32 + any KAC
- K33
- K116
- K118
- K109 or 110
- K119
- K121
- K137
- K163
- K165
- K167
- KAC (any 2)
- Biol 64
- Biol 65
Contact Us
Mark Baldis, Ph.D., RCEP, PTA
Program Coordinator and Lecturer
mbaldis@csufresno.edu
559.278.8896
South Gym 139