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GVSU exercise science student and professor engaged in a running shoe study.

Exercise Science, B.S.

The field of exercise science examines the relationships between physical activity and exercise on physical performance, health, and wellness. This includes studying acute responses and long-term adaptations in the human body, as influenced by physical movement.

Visit the program website for more information.

Students are admitted directly into this program.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science is consistent with American College of Sports Medicine standards and has three emphasis areas that align with professional goals: exercise physiology and sports performance; physical activity and health; and exercise science in health care. The program also offers students high-impact experiences through fieldwork and internship courses.

Why Study Exercise Science at Grand Valley?

  • In this student-oriented, teaching-focused program, students will gain the knowledge and skills to promote and impact their health and that of society.
  • The program prepares students for entry into the workforce across a variety of health and sport-related professions and positions them for admission into a variety of health-related graduate schools.
  • Extensive high-impact experiences are offered in diverse settings from local to international locations.
  • Students learn using state-of-the-art equipment and instructional materials.
  • There are many opportunities to engage in research and scholarly activities with award-winning GVSU faculty members.

Career Insights

This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.

Location & Format

Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.

Format:
  • Face To Face

Coursework

Coursework varies with emphasis selection but focuses on the following areas:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Behavior modification
  • Exercise testing
  • Research methods
  • Special populations
  • Exercise physiology
  • Exercise prescription and programming

Combined Degree Programs

Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.

Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.

Admission Requirements

Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.

For More Information

Department of Movement Science

gvsu.edu/exercisescience
4400A KHS
(616) 331-3515

Admissions and Recruitment Office

gvsu.edu/admissions

 

“The exercise science program has helped me grow professionally. Through quality instruction, I gained an understanding of the subject and have learned to apply my knowledge to situations I may encounter in the workforce.”

MATT WITTBRODT
B.S. EXERCISE SCIENCE (CLINICAL) 2010; M.S. EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY, WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY 2012; PH.D. APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY STUDENT, GEORGIA TECH