Exercise Science - School of Health Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science (EXS) degree program in the Department of Human Movement Science offers an option for a Pre-physical Therapy academic concentration, and a minor in exercise science, as well as elective courses for students interested in the relationship among physical activity, weight control, disease prevention, stress management and nutrition for optimal health and performance.

An accelerated Exercise Science "4+1" dual degree program provides an opportunity for students to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in approximately five years.

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At Oakland University’s School of Health Sciences, explore your passion for physical fitness and human movement. Gain hands-on experience. Enable exercise in diverse populations. Impact your community. Conduct meaningful research. The innovative Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science program builds an ideal foundation for a career or a graduate degree in fields such as physical therapy, cardiac rehabilitation, sports, athletics, fitness and many others. Learn more at oakland.edu/shs.

Program Overview Course Requirements Degree Plan Advising Apply

Curriculum

The exercise science degree provides a strong foundation through practicum, research and laboratory experiences. The degree prepares graduates for positions in the field and for competitive graduate degree programs such as the Oakland University Master of Science in Exercise Science (MS). The Pre-physical Therapy concentration is designed to prepare students for the traditional application requirements for the Oakland University Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT).

For a copy of the EXS 4960 Practicum Handbook, please contact Terry Dibble or Denae May.

EXS Minor

A 20-credit minor in Exercise Science is available to students in any major, other than the exercise science major. For more information, visit the EXS Minor page of the Undergraduate Catalog.

Pre-physical Therapy Concentration

Students who want to prepare to apply for graduate programs in physical therapy may pursue the B.S. in Exercise Science with a concentration in Pre-physical Therapy. For course requirements, visit the Pre-physical Therapy Concentration of the Undergraduate Catalog.

Career Information

The B.S. in Exercise Science degree is excellent preparation for graduate programs in various clinical occupations (P.T., O.T., M.D.) or immediate employment. The exercise science industry is expected to grow over the next decade to serve aging populations and the increased interest in healthy living. There’s high demand for exercise science professionals to work in physical therapy, fitness training, health education, or with patients recovering from surgery, cancer, heart disease, and other serious illnesses.

Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 13 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS reports that employment of exercise physiologists is estimated to increase 10 percent for the same time period. Employment of recreational therapists, who plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses, is projected to grow 7 percent.