Jun 06, 2026  
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
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2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog

Applied Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology - Bachelor of Science Degree

This program is pending NMU Board of Trustees approval. The board will meet Thursday July 9 - Friday, July 10.

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology is designed to prepare students for diverse careers in exercise science-related fields and graduate or professional programs, including cardiac rehabilitation, strength and conditioning coaching, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. This program integrates foundational sciences-biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physics-with applied exercise science principles. The curriculum aligns with the accreditation standards required for certification exams offered by major professional organizations, such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

Students in the program will choose from various tracks/concentrations to tailor their academic experience based on career goals. Concentrations include Clinical Exercise Science, Sport Performance/Strength and Conditioning, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Occupational Therapy, and Pre-Athletic Training. The comprehensive structure offers flexibility for students pursuing immediate employment and/or advanced education in health and human performance.

Exercise Science majors must earn a grade of “C” (2.00) or higher in all core and concentration courses. Academic advisors assist students in planning appropriate coursework, particularly for meeting graduate school prerequisites.

Total Credits Required 120 credits

General Education 30-40 credits

Exercise Science Core 35 credits

Courses in the School of Health and Human Performance required for all students in this degree.

Other Required Core 24-26 credits

Courses outside of the School of Health and Human Performance that are additionally required for all students to fufill degree requirements.

Clinical Exercise Science 17-23 credits

For students who want to pursue clinical careers (e.g., cardiac rehabilitation, diabetes educator).

Sports Performance 16-22 credits

For students wishing to pursue advanced coaching jobs (e.g., strength and conditioning professional).

Mental Performance 12-18 credits

For students interested in careers focused on mental performance skills. 

Pre-Physical Therapy 24 credits

For students wanting to pursue a graduate program in Physical Therapy but earn a degree from an accredited exercise science program. This would be a great option for students who intend to enter the workforce to gain experience with exercise prescription prior to graduate school.Note: students pursuing a pre-professional track/concentration intending to apply to a post-professional program in Physical Therapy should work with their academic advisor, as additional prerequisite courses may be required.

Pre-Occupational Therapy 17 credits

For students wanting to pursue a graduate program in Occupational Therapy but earn a degree from an accredited exercise science program. This would be a great option for students who intend to enter the workforce to gain experience with exercise prescription prior to graduate school. Note: students pursuing a pre-professional track/concentration intending to apply to a post-professional program in Occupational Therapy should work with their academic advisor, as additional prerequisite courses may be required.

Pre-Athletic Training 12 credits

For students wanting to pursue a graduate program in Athletic Training but earn a degree from an accredited exercise science program. This would be a great option for students who intend to enter the workforce to gain experience with exercise prescription prior to graduate school. Note: this track is not appropriate for students who wish to pursue the 3+2 MS in Athletic Training program at NMU. This track would be for students who want to complete a 4-year degree prior to entering a graduate program in Athletic Training. Note: students pursuing a pre-professional track/concentration intending to apply to a post-professional program in Athletic Training should work with their academic advisor, as additional prerequisite courses may be required.