Exercise Science

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at South Dakota State University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers focused on improving human health, fitness, and performance. This program combines foundational coursework in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition with practical experiences such as internships and research projects. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of how the human body responds to physical activity and how to develop effective training and rehabilitation programs.

The Exercise Science program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling graduates to pursue various career paths including physical therapy, occupational therapy, sports management, personal training, and health coaching. The curriculum is structured to provide a solid background in exercise physiology, motor behavior, and exercise testing and prescription, ensuring students are well-equipped to work in diverse settings such as hospitals, fitness centers, sports teams, and community health organizations.

Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, providing hands-on experience in assessing physical fitness, conducting performance tests, and designing individualized exercise programs. The program also offers opportunities for research and involvement in community outreach programs, promoting a well-rounded educational experience.

The faculty members are experienced professionals in sports science, rehabilitation, and health promotion, committed to mentoring students and facilitating their professional development. Graduates of the Exercise Science program are well-positioned to obtain advanced certifications, such as Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM), and to continue their education in graduate programs related to physical therapy, sports medicine, or public health.

Through this rigorous academic program, students will develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills essential for success in the evolving field of exercise science. The program aims to produce competent, ethical, and innovative professionals who are dedicated to enhancing quality of life through physical activity and health promotion.

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at South Dakota State University offers a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the health, fitness, and rehabilitation industries. The program focuses on the scientific principles underlying human movement, physiology, and health, providing students with a solid foundation in exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, kinesiology, and health assessment. Throughout their studies, students gain practical skills through laboratory work, internships, and hands-on experiences that enable them to assess physical fitness, develop exercise programs, and promote healthy lifestyles.

The curriculum balances classroom instruction with applied learning, ensuring students are well-equipped to work in settings such as fitness centers, rehabilitation clinics, sports organizations, and wellness programs. Core coursework includes anatomy, physiology, exercise testing and prescription, nutrition, and injury prevention, alongside elective courses that allow students to specialize or explore related fields like sports management or coaching. Emphasis is placed on understanding human health and performance, motivating individuals to achieve their personal fitness goals, and applying evidence-based practices.

Students in the Exercise Science program also learn about program design, leadership, and communication skills essential for effective client interaction. The program prepares graduates to pursue advanced certifications such as the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or the Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C). Additionally, graduates are well-positioned to continue their education in graduate programs related to physical therapy, athletic training, or public health.

Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to student success and employ innovative teaching methods incorporating the latest research and technology. Facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and fitness equipment to support experiential learning. Graduates of the program emerge with a thorough understanding of human movement and health promotion, making them competitive candidates in a growing field dedicated to improving quality of life and athletic performance.

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at South Dakota State University requires completion of 120 semester credit hours, including general education, major, and elective courses. Students must complete foundational coursework in the sciences such as Anatomy and Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics to establish a solid understanding of human body systems and scientific principles relevant to physical activity and health. The program emphasizes the development of practical skills through laboratory coursework and supervised internships, providing real-world experience in clinical, community, and fitness settings. Core coursework includes Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Biomechanics, Exercise Testing and Prescription, Nutrition, and Motor Development. Students are also encouraged to participate in research projects and community outreach to enhance their understanding of health promotion and disease prevention. Elective courses allow students to explore specialized topics such as Sports Psychology, Strength Training, and Rehabilitation. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum GPA as specified by the program and complete a capstone project or comprehensive exam demonstrating their comprehensive knowledge of exercise science principles. The program prepares graduates for careers in health and fitness, rehabilitation, corporate wellness, sports performance, and graduate studies. Additionally, students are encouraged to obtain certifications such as Certified Personal Trainer or Exercise Physiologist through recognized professional organizations to enhance employment prospects. The curriculum is designed to ensure students acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to promote health and physical activity across diverse populations.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The exercise science program at South Dakota State University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the program can benefit from various funding opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. The university provides numerous merit-based scholarships that are available to incoming and continuing students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, or financial need. These scholarships are awarded based on application credentials and may cover partial or full tuition, reducing the financial burden on students. Additionally, South Dakota State University participates in federal and state financial aid programs such as Pell Grants and state-specific scholarships, which are designed to assist students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The university’s financial aid office offers personalized counseling to help students understand their eligibility, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and explore all available funding sources.

For students pursuing graduate studies within the exercise science field, assistantships and fellowships may be available. Graduate assistants typically assist faculty with research projects, teaching responsibilities, or administrative tasks in exchange for a stipend and tuition waiver. These opportunities not only help reduce the overall cost of education but also provide valuable professional experience in the field of exercise science. The university also provides information on external funding sources, including private scholarships and industry-specific grants, which students can apply for to further support their studies.

The cost of attendance for the exercise science program is detailed on the university’s official website and includes tuition, fees, housing, meals, and supplies. In-state students benefit from lower tuition rates compared to out-of-state students, which can significantly impact the overall financing needs. South Dakota State University offers payment plans and financial literacy resources to help students manage their education expenses effectively. The university encourages prospective and current students to regularly consult the financial aid office for updated information on funding opportunities, application deadlines, and advising services to maximize their financial support.

Overall, the exercise science program at South Dakota State University is financially accessible through a combination of institutional aid, federal and state programs, and external funding sources, enabling students to pursue their educational goals with manageable financial arrangements.

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at South Dakota State University is designed to prepare students for careers in health and fitness, rehabilitation, sports performance, and related fields. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines fundamental sciences such as anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics with practical applications in exercise testing, prescription, and injury prevention. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, internships, and research projects, which help develop the skills needed to work effectively with diverse populations, from athletes to individuals with chronic health conditions.

The degree emphasizes the importance of understanding human movement and the physiological responses to exercise, equipping students with knowledge to assess fitness levels and develop personalized exercise programs. Graduates are prepared for careers as exercise physiologists, fitness trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, or for further education in graduate or professional schools such as physical therapy, medicine, or sports science. The program also offers coursework in nutrition, psychology, and health promotion to ensure a well-rounded education.

South Dakota State University’s Exercise Science program is accredited by recognized bodies, ensuring high academic standards and relevance to current industry practices. Students benefit from experienced faculty members actively involved in research, which keeps the curriculum current and aligned with emerging trends in exercise science and allied health fields. Additionally, the university’s state-of-the-art laboratories and campus facilities provide a supportive environment for learning and professional development.

The program typically requires four years of full-time study, including general education requirements, core coursework in exercise science, and specialized electives. Entry into the program usually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and some prerequisite courses in biology and chemistry. Upon graduation, students are encouraged to pursue certifications such as the Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP) or Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) to enhance employability.

Overall, South Dakota State University’s Exercise Science program is committed to fostering a collaborative learning environment, promoting research literacy, and preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to health and fitness industries or to pursue further specialization in related health professions.