Exercise Science

Major, Minor

The School of Education and Human Services

The Exercise Science program prepares students to understand how the human body moves, adapts, and performs across the lifespan. Students study anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and exercise principles while learning how physical activity supports health, performance, and quality of life.

Student in gym working with personal trainer on weights

Opportunities & Outcomes

The Exercise Science major provides opportunities for hands-on learning through laboratory experiences, internships, and field-based practice in fitness, wellness, and clinical settings. Students gain experience working with diverse populations and develop practical skills in assessment, program design, and health promotion. These opportunities prepare graduates for immediate entry into the workforce or for advanced study in health-related and professional programs.

Career Pathways

An Exercise Science degree prepares students for people-centered careers focused on movement, wellness, and performance, as well as for graduate and professional study. Graduates pursue careers in health, fitness, and human performance across a variety of professional settings.

Health, Fitness & Wellness

  • Exercise specialist
  • Fitness or wellness coordinator
  • Strength and conditioning assistant*
  • Corporate or community wellness program staff

Clinical, Rehabilitation & Healthcare Support

  • Cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation assistant*
  • Physical therapy aide or technician*
  • Occupational therapy aide or technician*
  • Clinical exercise physiology support roles

Sports Performance & Coaching

  • Athletic performance or training assistant*
  • Strength and conditioning coach (entry-level)*
  • Sports performance or athlete development staff
  • Team or facility performance support roles

Education & Community Programs

  • Health or physical education teacher (with additional certification)*
  • Community health or recreation program coordinator
  • Youth sports or activity program director
  • School or community wellness educator

Research, Data & Applied Science

  • Exercise or human performance research assistant
  • Data collection or testing technician
  • Program evaluation or outcomes support roles
  • Laboratory or field testing assistant

Graduate & Professional Pathways

  • Graduate study in exercise science or kinesiology
  • Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or athletic training programs*
  • Physician assistant, chiropractic, or healthcare graduate programs*
  • Public health or health promotion graduate study

*Additional certification, licensure, or graduate study may be required for some roles.

Programs of Study Offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a Human Performance Concentration
  • Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a Pre-Athletic Training Concentration
  • Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a Pre-Physical Therapy Concentration
  • Exercise Science Minor

Learn by Doing

Real-World Anatomy Experience

Quincy University offers students hands-on learning opportunities through access to an on-campus cadaver laboratory. This facility supports anatomy-based coursework by allowing students to study human structures in a controlled, respectful, and professionally supervised environment. The cadaver lab enhances academic preparation for careers in healthcare, biomedical sciences, and related fields by reinforcing theoretical knowledge with direct anatomical observation.

 

Bonaventure Program

Every QU student’s foundation for our liberal arts education, involving service learning, signature courses, writing, technological literacy. Program Requirements

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