Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

Overview

The Exercise Science program at The University of Mississippi prepares students for a broad range of health and fitness related professions through a curriculum that focuses on the applied sciences of exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, and the psychology of exercise behavior.  Furthermore, the curriculum ensures that students are presented with the most contemporary issues and trends in the application of exercise for weight management, cardiopulmonary health, maintenance of functional movement throughout the lifespan, and the application of exercise science to athletic performance.

Students who graduate with a degree in Exercise Science often continue to study in areas such as medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, psychology, athletic training, nutrition, and education.  In addition, students can find employment as group exercise instructors, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation specialists, employee fitness coordinators, personal trainers, and strength and conditioning coaches.

Careers

A person with an overall interest in health and fitness and who enjoys working with a variety of people should consider a career in the field of exercise science.  The career outlook for the exercise scientist will continue to be good as the nation directs its efforts to protect and improve the health and well-being of its society.  Job opportunities in the exercise science field are expected to grow faster than jobs overall for the foreseeable future due to the increasing number of businesses including wellness programs for their employees, the general rise in fitness awareness among the population, and the aging of the baby boomer generation.

Career opportunities include:

Group exercise instructor; health fitness supervisor; health promotion recruiter; biomechanist; sports nutritionist; employee fitness director; exercise physiologist; occupational physiologist; personal trainer; physical/occupational therapist; researcher; professor; strength (sport) and conditioning coach. Learn more about exercise science career paths here.