The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at Stockton University prepares students to study human movement, physical activity, and health. Students build a foundation in exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, anatomy, strength training, and fitness assessment for careers in health, fitness, rehabilitation, and sports performance.
Exercise Science students gain experience in exercise testing, exercise prescription, wellness programming, research methods, and supervised practical experiences. The curriculum combines laboratory science with applied learning in strength and conditioning, health promotion, cardiac rehabilitation, and physical activity assessment. Students also complete a senior internship and may prepare for ACSM-EP and CSCS certifications.
Preparing for Careers in Health and Fitness
What is Exercise Science at Stockton University?
Exercise Science at Stockton University is the study of human movement, physical activity, and health. Students explore topics including exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, fitness assessment, strength training, and exercise prescription while learning how physical activity supports wellness, disease prevention, and quality of life.
What do students learn in the Exercise Science program?
Students in the Exercise Science program study anatomy and physiology, exercise testing, health assessment, research methods, physical activity science, and exercise programming. Coursework helps students develop skills in designing fitness programs, evaluating human performance, monitoring wellness outcomes, and understanding how exercise affects the body across different populations.
What careers can you pursue with an Exercise Science degree?
Graduates with an Exercise Science degree may pursue careers in personal training, strength and conditioning, cardiac rehabilitation, corporate wellness, coaching, recreational therapy, and exercise physiology. Some students also continue into graduate programs in physical therapy, sports medicine, or other healthcare and rehabilitation fields.
Does Stockton University’s Exercise Science program include internships?
Yes. Exercise Science students complete supervised practical experiences and a senior internship in professional health, fitness, or rehabilitation settings. Stockton University’s regional partnerships and proximity to healthcare, fitness, and sports performance facilities provide students with opportunities for applied learning and professional experience.
Can Exercise Science students prepare for professional certifications?
The Exercise Science program helps students prepare for industry-recognized certifications including the American College of Sports Medicine Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). Coursework emphasizes exercise programming, fitness assessment, strength training, and human performance science.
Program Faculty
Kelly A. Dougherty
Bryce J. Muth
Traci McCarthy
Program Learning Experience
The B.S. in Exercise Science includes a strong science foundation in Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology. Students study exercise testing and prescription, exercise physiology, and research methods while gaining supervised practical experience.
Students also complete a senior internship in a professional setting. Stockton’s partnerships and location near health, fitness, and wellness facilities provide opportunities to apply classroom learning in real-world environments.
Through the program, students learn to conduct and evaluate health and fitness assessments, design exercise programs based on assessment findings, and monitor changes in health and fitness over time.
Students completing the program will be prepared to:
- Explain how physical activity supports health, wellness, and quality of life.
- Evaluate research on physical activity, health, and chronic disease.
- Design physical activity programs that promote health and improve quality of life.
- Explain how scientific research informs the study of physical activity.
- Evaluate information about exercise and physical activity from a scientific perspective.
- Understand cultural, historical, and social factors that influence physical activity.
- Make ethical decisions and demonstrate respect for cultural diversity.
- Demonstrate an appreciation of physical activity practice.
Your Path Starts Here
What can someone with a B.S. in Exercise Science do?
Graduates of an Exercise Science program can work in a variety of careers (some may require additional training) including:
- Athletic/personal training
- Cardiac rehabilitation specialist
- Exercise physiologist
- Sports information / marketing / journalism
- Coaching at a school or college
- Strength and conditioning coaching
- Program director of a corporate fitness center
- Physical activity epidemiology
The health and fitness field is growing fast, with national, state, and local career opportunities. Faster than average growth in employment is predicted in a number of areas related to Exercise Science. A poll of employers in southern New Jersey found many eager to provide internships and, ultimately, jobs for graduates of an Exercise Science program.
The undergraduate degree could also enable interested candidates to go on to advanced degree programs such as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT).
Career Information
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