Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Program: FAQs

Get the answers to all of your frequently asked questions about NUNM's Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science program.

All About NUNM’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Program

What is a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science?

At NUNM, the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science is a two-year degree completion program dedicated to teaching students the science behind movement, exercise, performance, rehabilitation, and learning how to achieve optimum wellness, improve mobility, and prevent chronic disease through a whole-person approach to evidence-based exercise prescription.

What do you learn in an Exercise Science degree?

NUNM’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree teaches students how to understand and evaluate the mechanics of human movement, as well as develop expertise in what’s called, “functional performance,” which is the study and understanding of neuromuscular coordination in the human body. 

From this, students will also learn how to work within clinical, community, and fitness environments, where they will design, implement, and manage patients or clients through personalized, holistic, evidence-based exercise programs. 

Is Exercise Science the same as kinesiology?

Kinesiology and Exercise Science are very similar, but there are important differences between the two fields of study. 

Kinesiology is the study of the mechanics of movement in the human body. It’s a somewhat broader field of study than Exercise Science. Exercise Science is the study of human movement during exercise. 

What is the difference between Exercise Science and sports science?

Though there are similarities between Exercise Science and Sports Science, there are important differences between the two fields of study. 

In general terms, Sports Science is a study of how the human body performs during specific sports, and how to optimize that performance for those sports. 

Exercise Science, while covering similar topics, is the study of human movement during exercise, how it affects our health and how to optimize wellness through exercise. 

What are the Requirements for NUNM’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science? 

What are the application requirements for an Exercise Science degree?

The requirements for application to NUNM’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science include:

  • Submission of an application fee
  • Official transcripts from former schools attended
  • An up-to-date resume or CV
  • A letter of recommendation, written by a professional or academic contact
  • 60 semester credits (or 90 quarter credits) of undergraduate coursework from a regionally accredited college or university or foreign equivalent
  • Program specific prerequisites passed with a grade of C or higher
  • A 1,500-word maximum personal essay, where you’ll share  insights about you, your background, what interests you about receiving your undergraduate degree from NUNM, and how your unique life experiences and perspectives might enhance the culture of community and inclusivity at NUNM

There are additional program-specific requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science program. Contact NUNM to learn more about application requirements.

Do you need strong science or math skills for Exercise Science?

It is important to have a strong foundation in mathematics when studying your Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. 

At NUNM, students will be studying a wide variety of math-related subjects, including organic chemistry and biochemistry, biostatistics, and physics and physiology-centric courses. 

A basic understanding of Algebra, Statistics and formulas and conversions will help students succeed in this field of study. 

Can you get into Exercise Science without a science background?

Though a science background is not required to apply for NUNM’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, this is a science degree — an earned understanding and application of the scientific concepts learned in the curriculum is absolutely essential for graduation. 

Students will focus on subjects such as human anatomy and physiology,, biochemistry,nutrition and more, ensuring that an evidence-based understanding of Exercise Science is gained. 

How long does it take to get a BS in Exercise Science?

It typically takes students four years to earn their Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. 

NUNM offers a bachelor’s degree completion program, predicated on you entering this program with two of those four years (and the appropriate number of credits and prerequisites) already completed.

Can you complete an Exercise Science degree online?

NUNM does not offer the Bachelor of Science major  in Exercise Science online. It is an in-person, hands-on curriculum, delivered at our campus in Portland, Oregon. 

Common Career Outcomes for Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Graduates

What jobs can you get with a BS in Exercise Science?

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree prepares you for a variety of careers, post-graduation. 

Some are in the fitness industry, such as a fitness trainer, performance specialist, or a strength and conditioning coach. 

Other careers fall under healthcare and clinical support umbrellas, and would include roles like wellness coordinator, rehabilitation technician, or an exercise physiologist. 

There are also corporate careers like wellness specialist or community health organizer, and some graduates even go onto work in research-oriented roles with their degrees. 

Can you become a physical therapist with an Exercise Science degree?

You cannot become a physical therapist with your Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree, but you can use it for graduate school eligibility. 

Many graduates of the Exercise Science program use their knowledge as a springboard into Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Sports Medicine, Chiropractic, Nutrition, and other advanced degrees. 

Earn Your Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at NUNM

NUNM is among the most-respected naturopathic medicine universities in North America, offering a rich, rigorous education in whole-person healthcare. If you’d like to learn more about how you can enter the exciting and growing field of Exercise Science, we invite you to contact our team to get started. We’re here to help you every step of the way!