Earning an Online Degree in Exercise Science: A Complete Guide

Exercise science is an exciting and growing field that helps people improve their health, fitness, and performance through physical activity. With an online degree in exercise science, you can gain the skills needed to begin or advance your career in areas like athletic training, strength and conditioning coaching, corporate wellness, and more.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting an online bachelor’s degree in exercise science, including an overview of the field, program details, career paths, and reasons to earn your degree online.

What is Exercise Science?

Exercise science is an interdisciplinary field that applies principles from biomechanics physiology, neuroscience nutrition, and psychology to understand human movement and physical activity. Professionals in this field have a strong foundation in the biological and social sciences.

Exercise scientists study how the human body adapts and responds to exercise and use that knowledge to develop training programs, improve athletic performance, promote general health and fitness, prevent and treat chronic diseases, and more Their work spans many settings like gyms, hospitals, universities, corporate wellness programs, professional sports teams, and the military

While exercise science overlaps with areas like kinesiology and sports medicine it has a distinct focus on the relationship between physical activity and improved health outcomes. Exercise scientists take a data-driven, evidence-based approach to their work.

Typical Courses in an Exercise Science Degree Program

Exercise science degree programs provide a blend of foundational science courses and applied, profession-specific courses. Here are some common courses students take when earning an online bachelor’s degree in exercise science:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology
• Motor Learning and Development
• Strength Training and Conditioning
• Research Methods in Exercise Science
• Exercise Testing and Prescription
• Nutrition
• Exercise and Special Populations
• Health Psychology
• Injury Prevention and Treatment
• Business Principles for Health and Fitness Professionals

Students also complete general education courses in subjects like English, statistics, communications, history, and social sciences. Electives allow customization based on interests and career goals.

Many programs include hands-on learning through labs, internships, or capstone projects. This allows students to apply classroom concepts in real-world settings.

Online vs On-Campus Exercise Science Degrees

Earning an exercise science degree online provides flexibility and expanded access compared to traditional on-campus programs. Here are some of the main differences:

• Schedule flexibility – Online programs allow students to complete coursework on their own time, which is ideal for those who work or have family obligations. On-campus programs require attendance at set class times.

• Location flexibility – Online students can complete coursework from anywhere with an internet connection. On-campus students must travel to class.

• Cost savings – Online programs tend to have lower tuition and eliminate commuting costs.

• Self-directed learning – Online students need strong time management and independent study skills. On-campus programs provide more built-in structure.

• Interaction method – Online discussions, email, video lectures, and conferences replace face-to-face classroom interactions.

• Hands-on learning – On-campus students use campus labs and equipment for applied learning. Online students may use home kits or make special campus visits.

Online exercise science students get equivalent training and education as on-campus students. Both paths can fully prepare graduates for certification exams and career success.

Career Paths with an Exercise Science Degree

An online exercise science degree opens doors to a wide variety of health and fitness careers. Here are some of the top jobs students can pursue:

• Personal trainer – Work one-on-one with clients to improve fitness through exercise programs tailored to individual needs and goals. May work in a gym, privately, or through an online platform.

• Strength and conditioning coach – Improve athletic performance by designing specialized training programs that target strength, speed, agility, flexibility, and nutrition. Work for high school, college, or professional sports teams.

• Fitness instructor – Lead group classes focused on aerobics, yoga, Pilates, cycling, and more in gyms or studios. Create fun, motivating exercise routines set to music.

• Corporate wellness specialist – Develop and implement programs to improve employee health, reduce injuries, and lower healthcare costs for companies.

• Cardiac rehabilitation specialist – Help patients recover from cardiovascular conditions and surgery through customized exercise and lifestyle programs. Work in hospitals and clinics.

• Health coach – Provide guidance on exercise, nutrition, stress management, and behavior change to help clients improve overall well-being. May be privately or through healthcare organizations.

• Sports scientist – Apply exercise science principles to maximize athletic performance. Analyze data to inform training and identify areas for improvement.

With further education, exercise science graduates can become physical therapists, occupational therapists, registered dietitians, exercise physiologists, chiropractors, and more.

Why Earn an Exercise Science Degree Online?

Here are some of the biggest advantages of earning your exercise science degree online:

Convenience and Schedule Flexibility

Online programs allow students to complete coursework on their own time, following a schedule that fits their lifestyle. This makes it possible to balance earning a degree with work and family obligations. Recorded lectures and asynchronous online discussions mean you can log in and participate whenever works best for you.

Wider Range of Program Options

Studying online opens up a national (or even international) pool of programs to choose from, rather than just what’s available locally. You can find the perfect degree that aligns with your interests and goals. This increased access is especially helpful for specialized fields like exercise science.

Cost Savings

Online exercise science programs tend to have lower tuition rates compared to traditional on-campus programs. You’ll also save on room and board, commuting, and other costs associated with physically attending classes. The ability to keep working while earning your degree also helps cut costs.

Learn Real-World Skills

Quality online programs immerse you in practical training on exercise prescription, fitness instruction, motivational techniques, business concepts, and other in-demand skills. This prepares you to hit the ground running in your exercise science career. Hands-on experiences like internships may also be incorporated.

Networking Opportunities

Through online discussions and group projects, you’ll interact with peers across the country. Expand your professional network and make connections that can benefit your career. You may also engage virtually with industry leaders.

Prepares for Technology-Forward Roles

An online education demonstrates your comfort with technology and ability to connect and collaborate virtually. These skills translate well into the modern fitness industry, where wearables, fitness apps, streaming workouts, and virtual training are becoming more common.

How to Choose the Right Online Exercise Science Program

When researching online exercise science programs, here are some factors to look for:

• Accreditation – Make sure the program and school are accredited by an organization like the Higher Learning Commission. This ensures quality standards are met.

• Curriculum – Look for a blend of science and profession-focused courses taught by qualified exercise science faculty. Seek hands-on learning opportunities like labs and internships.

• Specializations – Some programs offer concentrations in strength & conditioning, personal training, pre-physical therapy, etc. Choose one that aligns with your interests.

• Cost and financial aid – Compare tuition costs and see what scholarships and grants are available. Avoid programs that seem overpriced.

• Reputation and outcomes – Look for established schools with a track record of successful graduates. Check reviews and career placement rates.

• Student support services – See what resources are provided like academic advising, tutoring services, tech support, career counseling, and library access.

Getting your exercise science degree online is an excellent way to break into this growing field and help people through health promotion, personal training, and other areas. With flexibility and practical, real-world training, online programs empower students to earn their degree and advance their career ambitions.