Bachelor of Science in Exercise Sceince and Kinesiology
USF’s Exercise Science and Kinesiology B.S. program prepares students to become leaders in health, fitness, and performance by blending classroom learning with hands-on laboratory and field experiences. Students gain a deep understanding of human movement, nutrition, psychology, and physiology while developing practical skills to improve wellness across diverse populations. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in exercise science, strength and conditioning, health promotion, and rehabilitation, as well as advanced study in professional programs such as physical therapy, physician assistant, and occupational therapy.
Sports Nutrition Concentration
The Sports Nutrition concentration explores how nutrition supports physical activity, training, and athletic performance. Students learn to apply foundational nutritional principles to real-world sports and fitness settings. The program also emphasizes metabolism, performance fueling, and the safe and effective use of supplements.
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Career Opportunities:
- Sports Nutrition Assistant (working under a licensed dietitian)
- Performance Coach / Strength & Conditioning Coach
- Health Coach or Wellness Coach
- Fitness Specialist / Personal Trainer
- Athletic Program Nutrition Support Staff
- Corporate Wellness Coordinator
- Exercise Physiologist
- Community Health Educator
- Rehabilitation or Physical Therapy Aide
- Group Fitness Instructor
What to expect:
Students enrolled in the B.S. in Exercise Science & Kinesiology with the Sports Nutrition concentration will engage in coursework that explores the interplay between nutrition and physical activity, particularly in athletic and performance settings. They will learn to apply foundational nutritional principles to sports-related contexts, including metabolism, performance fueling, and the role of supplements. The program will also include both classroom-based learning and practical, applied experiences to prepare students for careers or further study in health, fitness, and performance-nutrition roles.
Exercise and Wellness Concentration
The Exercise Science and Kinesiology B.S. with an Exercise and Wellness concentration explores the biological and behavioral aspects of exercise, fitness assessment, and health promotion. Students combine classroom learning with hands-on experiences to build strong foundations in exercise prescription, behavior change, and clinical applications of exercise. The program also prepares graduates for professional certifications and advanced study in allied health fields such as physical therapy, athletic training, and physician assistant programs.
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Potential Job Opportunities:
- Exercise Physiologist
- Wellness Coach / Health Coach
- Personal Trainer
- Strength and Conditioning Specialist
- Clinical Exercise Specialist (cardiac or pulmonary rehab)
- Corporate Wellness Coordinator
- Community Health Educator
- Fitness Director or Program Manager
What to expect?
Students in this program can expect a strong blend of science-based coursework and hands-on learning focused on anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, wellness, and behavior change. The degree includes practical lab experiences and internships that let students apply what they learn in real health, fitness, and wellness settings. It also prepares graduates for industry certifications and provides a solid pathway into careers or advanced study in allied health fields.
Strength and Conditioning Concentration
The Strength and Conditioning concentration blends scientific and practical training in exercise, fitness assessment, and program design. Students gain the skills needed for professional certifications and careers in strength and conditioning, health promotion, rehabilitation, and sport performance. The concentration emphasizes sport psychology and applying strength and conditioning principles to both general and athletic populations.
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Career opportunities:
- Strength and Conditioning Coach (schools, colleges, professional teams)
- Personal Trainer
- Performance Coach / Sports Performance Specialist
- Fitness Specialist or Exercise Specialist
- Wellness Coach
- Corporate Wellness Trainer
- Clinical Exercise Physiologist (with certification)
- Rehabilitation or Physical Therapy Aide
- Group Fitness Instructor
- Athletic Program Conditioning Assistant
The College of Education, specifically the exercise science program, offers a supportive and collaborative environment committed to helping its students grow.
PAIGE GLOSSOP