Overview

Exercise Science is the study and understanding of how the human body moves and how it responds and adapts to changes associated with fitness and exercise. Those who enroll in an exercise science program can expect to take courses such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, rehabilitation, nutrition, and more. California offers a great variety of programs throughout the state for individuals to obtain their exercise science degree. 

Post graduation, individuals can start their career in an entry-level position such as a personal trainer, coaching, rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, or they may choose to move on to obtain a graduate degree in a related field such as athletic training or physical therapy. With California’s size, there is an abundance of opportunities for those who wish to pursue a career in exercise science.

What Can I Expect to Learn in an Exercise Science Program?

Degree Timetable

Typically, an exercise science degree will take between 4-6 years depending on the level of degree you are completing. Individuals may even find some programs that offer a degree that can be completed in 3 years. 

Degree Plan of Study

All exercise science degrees will follow a similar plan of study with slight variations in the order of courses and extra courses that can be taken for those completing a concentration in a specific area under exercise science. The main area of focus in an exercise science degree will involve biology, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, biomechanics, kinesiology, and other closely related topics. Some degrees may require multiple classes of the same topic that build off of each other. Students enrolled in an exercise science program can also expect to complete an internship or clinical experience while they are in school to get hands-on experience in a field of their interest. 

When a student completes the necessary coursework and requirements for their exercise science degree, they will have a deep understanding of how the human body works, how exercise or lack of exercise can alter it and will be able to confidently and safely implement adaptations in exercise programs for individuals with limitations.

Requirements for Acceptance to an Exercise Science Program

While some schools may have a few unique acceptance requirements for their programs, many requirements will be similar across the board. All master’s programs will expect a prospective student to have completed a bachelor’s degree before enrolling in a graduate degree, as well as maintain a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA). Many institutions will require standardized test scores such as the SAT, ACT, or Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Students can expect to apply to the general school, as well as the exercise science program they wish to enroll in. Some schools may also require students to submit cover letters, references, or conduct an interview. Prospective students should be aware that some school’s applications may come with a non-refundable fee.

California Bachelors Degrees in Exercise Science

California Masters Degrees in Exercise Science

What to Expect with a Career in Exercise Science

Exercise science offers an immense amount of possibilities for a career, and California’s fitness scene makes way for an even broader array of opportunities for someone just graduating with their exercise science degree. Depending on the level of degree they obtain, graduates can find careers in personal training, strength and conditioning, physical education, exercise physiology, or even physician assistants. Individuals can also choose to pursue additional professional degrees in a similar topic such as athletic training or physical therapy.

Salaries for someone with an exercise science degree can greatly fluctuate due to the variety of career fields someone with an exercise science degree can enter. As of 2023, an individual in California with an exercise science degree can expect to make anywhere between $54,000 and $128,000. This can vary depending on the person’s degree level, how much experience they have, and if they have any areas of specialization. 

https://www.talent.com/salary?job=exercise+science&location=california#:~:text=How%20much%20does%20a%20Exercise%20science%20make%20in%20California%3F&text=The%20average%20exercise%20science%20salary%20in%20California%20is%20%2465%2C520%20per,up%20to%20%24128%2C458%20per%20year.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in exercise science are projected to grow 10% between 2022 and 2032. This outlook for the profession ensures great job security for new graduates of an exercise science program.