Exercise Science, B.S.

Program overview

Develop an understanding of how the body works and how exercise impacts physical performance and brain function. Bridge basic biology, exercise physiology, sports nutrition and psychology through clinical applications. You’ll learn how to apply these scientific concepts to athletic and exercise performance and design effective fitness practices for individuals of all health, age and fitness levels.

Admission options

First-year - How to Apply

Rider is where your future begins. First-year students are defined as recent high school graduates who are attending college for the first time. There are so many opportunities ahead. Take the first step towards your tomorrow at Rider.

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Transfer - How to Apply

No matter where you began your journey, Rider has the resources you need to continue moving forward. At Rider, transfer students are defined as students who are under the age of 25 and have credits from another college or university.

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Continuing Education - How to Apply

Rider offers flexible pathways for adult learners aged 25 or over, including veterans and active duty military personnel, that allow you to earn your bachelor's degree or take courses for personal enrichment. Non-matriculated or visiting students should apply using the Continuing Education application.

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Take the next step

Graduate ready to begin a career as a corporate wellness consultant, fitness trainer, cardiac rehab therapist or performance coach. Your degree also will provide the foundation for graduate study or professional certifications in a range of programs. Graduates of the program will be prepared for national certifications (i.e., NSCA CSCS, NASM PES and CES, ACE personal training, Group Exercise and Health Coaching.)

Careers you could pursue with a degree in exercise science are listed below. Click on those career titles that are linked to watch professionals in the field share their personal career experience and advice.

Athletic trainer*
Clinical exercise physiologist*
Nutrition & Dietetics*
Exercise/nutrition educator
Physician’s assistant*
Physical therapist*
Occupational therapist*
Fitness Program leader
Public health*
High school or college strength and conditioning coach
Personal trainer
Group fitness leader
Corporate fitness and wellness

_{*Additional certification or education required}

Flex your knowledge beyond the classroom

Put your learned techniques and wellness strategies to work on diverse patient populations, including athletes from Rider’s 20 NCAA Division I sports teams, and benefit from faculty-led research projects and hands-on internship opportunities including a presence at state, regional and national conferences. You will have many opportunities to gain hands-on experience with Rider’s 20 Division I athletic teams.

Faculty and students in the health lab going over reports from student on treadmill

Program requirements

Our program will develop your understanding of how the body works and how exercise impacts physical performance and brain function.

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Rider stories

Where will a Rider education lead you? Read the stories of our current students and alumni to discover how they use their degree in Exercise Science to apply scientific principles to athletic performance.