Exercise Science

You’ll learn the ins and outs of biomechanics, human physiology, kinesiology, rehabilitation, sports nutrition, and more.

Why Exercise Science at Valpo?

Grounded in practical application, we radiate expertise. Valpo’s bachelor of science in exercise science takes shape in a detailed understanding of the physiological response to exercise. Our exercise science students grow to become experts in the behavioral, nutritional, physiological, psychological, and functional adaptations of movement and athletic performance.

This STEM-designated program combines top-tier academics with active learning experiences to prepare graduates to pursue advanced degrees in fields like occupational therapy and physical therapy, as well as to design, implement, and teach exercise programs for diverse populations. You’ll learn the ins and outs of biomechanics, human physiology, kinesiology, rehabilitation, sports nutrition, and more – everything you need to shine as a servant leader and help others grow into the healthiest versions of themselves.

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About Our Exercise Science Degree

EXPLORE THE COLLEGE

General Information

Career Outcomes

A 2023 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects careers in exercise physiology to grow by 10% through 2033 – faster than the average! While at Valpo, students will gain hands-on experience through internships at corporate wellness programs, medical fitness centers, sports performance facilities, and others. Our recent seniors have served as interns for local institutions like Jacob’s Ladder Pediatric Rehabilitation Center, Opportunity Enterprises, Inc., Athletico Physical Therapy, and local schools and YMCAs.

Careers in Exercise Science:

Cardiac rehabilitation specialist
Community health educator
Exercise physiologist
Exercise specialist
Group fitness instructor
Health and wellness coach
Nutrition and wellness consultant
Personal trainer
Sports performance specialist
Strength and conditioning coach

Paired with the pre-health professions concentration, our program prepares exercise science students to apply for graduate programs that lead to careers in athletic training, chiropractic medicine, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and more.

General Information

Prerequisites

Students transferring into Valpo’s exercise science program will work with a dedicated professional advisor to find resources, ask for advice, and benefit from mentorship based on their needs.

Core Requirements

Infused with our universal arts core, Valpo exercise science hits the ground running. Students start their Valparaiso University Experience (VUE) year one, expanding their knowledge of exercise science through critical thinking, cultural awareness, and empathy. Through these foundational courses, exercise science majors master the collaborative and communicative skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving field.

Major Requirements

Our bachelor of science in exercise science is designed to provide students a strong foundation in exercise physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, and other key areas essential for careers focused in physical activity, health, and overall well-being. With a strong emphasis on practical application, students learn through intensive labs, internships, and engaging discussions.

Paired with one of our concentrations, our exercise science curriculum springboards graduates into successful careers in allied health, health, and fitness professions. Our pre-health professions concentration also helps prepare students to apply for future graduate programs.

Exercise Science Courses: 37 Credits
XS 151	Introduction to Exercise Science	Cr. 1
XS 250	Medical Terminology	Cr. 3
XS 277	Physiology of Exercise	Cr. 3
XS 340	Motor Learning	Cr. 3
XS 370	Kinesiology	Cr. 3
XS 372	Biomechanics of Sport & Exercise	Cr. 3
XS 387	Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription	Cr. 3
XS 415	Research Methods in Exercise Science	Cr. 3
XS 450	Certified Personal Training	Cr. 3
XS 477	Advanced Physiology of Exercise	Cr. 3
HS 203	Human Health and Disease	Cr. 3
HS 440	Exercise and Chronic Health Conditions	Cr. 3
SMGT 310	Psychology of Sport	Cr. 3
One of the Following Concentrations:
Fitness and Human Performance: 26 Credits
XS 192	Care and Prevention of Sport Injuries	Cr. 1
XS 478	Sport Nutrition	Cr. 3
XS 479	Principles of Strength and Conditioning	Cr. 3
XS 486	Internship for Exercise Science	Cr. 3
CHEM 111	Introduction to Chemistry	Cr. 4
CHEM 111L	Intro to Chemistry Lab	Cr. 0
12 Credits of Open Electives, or a Healthcare Leadership Minor or Public Health Minor
Pre-Health Professions: 27 Credits
BIO 171	Unity of Life	Cr. 4
BIO 171L	Unity of Life Lab	Cr. 0
BIO 172	Diversity of Life	Cr. 4
BIO 172L	Diversity of Life Lab	Cr. 0
CHEM 121	General Chemistry I	Cr. 4
CHEM 121L	General Chemistry I Lab	Cr. 0
CHEM 122	General Chemistry II	Cr. 4
CHEM 122L	General Chemistry II Lab	Cr. 0
PHYS 111	Essentials of Physics	Cr. 3
PHYS 141L or 151L		Cr. 1
PHYS 112	Essentials of Physics	Cr. 3
PHYS 112L	Essentials of Physics Laboratory	Cr. 1
PSY 235	Abnormal Psychology	Cr. 3
Arts and Sciences: 61 Credits
VUE 101	Valparaiso University Experience: Exploring Values	Cr. 4
VUE 102	Valparaiso University Experience: Finding Your Voice	Cr. 4
REL 100	The Christian Tradition	Cr. 3
BIO 151	Human Anatomy and Physiology I	Cr. 4
BIO 151L	Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab I	Cr. 0
BIO 152	Human Anatomy and Physiology II	Cr. 4
BIO 152L	Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab II	Cr. 0
BIO 210	Microbiology	Cr. 4
BIO 210L	Microbiology Lab	Cr. 0
BIO 260	Human Nutrition	Cr. 3
PSY 110	General Psychology	Cr. 3
PSY 201	Statistical Methods	Cr. 3
PSY 215	Life Span Development	Cr. 3
MATH 124	Finite Mathematics	Cr. 4 OR
MATH 131	Calculus I	Cr. 4
Writing Intensive Course: 3 Credits
Upper Level Religious Studies: 3 Credits
Cultural Diversity: 3 Credits
Social Sciences: 6 Credits
SOC 110	Introduction to Sociology	Cr. 3
One Additional Social Sciences Course		Cr. 3
Exercise Science: 1 Credit
XS 101	Wellness and Stress	Cr. 1
Humanities Electives: 6 Credits

College of Nursing and Health Professions

Program Rankings & Highlights

Work collaboratively in real-world learning, with specialized equipment and focus-specific software.

Our curriculum readies you to earn top credentials—CPT, strength & conditioning, exercise physiologist, and sports nutrition specialist.

Exercise science majors choose from two tracks: Pre-Health or Fitness & Human Performance.

Student Success

While student-athlete Laëtitia Raoult ’27 may not have begun her college journey at Valpo – or even in the United States – she’s always been a Beacon at heart. From Guingamp, France, her experience both as a transfer and international student in our exercise science program has served as the official start of her journey toward a career in athletic training.

read Laëtitia’s story

exercise science

Meet Our Faculty

Professors. Mentors. Friends. At Valparaiso University, you will work on real-life problems alongside faculty leaders with decades of experience and a true desire to do what’s best for you.

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