Exercise Science Major
Turn your passion for fitness and health into a future-proof career. Inspire others to live a healthier lifestyle.
The exercise science program combines science, movement and real-world experience to prepare you for high-demand jobs in sports medicine, rehabilitation, wellness and human performance. You’ll also be prepared to pursue an advanced degree.
Why study exercise science at the College of Charleston?
Learn how the body works and how you can help people move, feel and perform better. This program provides a foundation in human movement science and human performance. Here, you won’t just sit in a lecture hall. You'll get hands-on experiences in labs with althetic teams and through community partnerships.
What will I learn?
You'll study subjects like anatomy, physiology, biology, nutrition, kinesiology, and exercise programming. You'll work directly with faculty mentors, local health professionals and athletes to apply what you learn. It’s the perfect launchpad to a career in physical therapy, athletic training or wellness coaching.
View Curriculum: Exercise Science, B.S.
Program Highlights
-
Hands-on Learning
Exercise Science students gain valuable hands-on experience that deepens their understanding and prepares them for careers in health, fitness, rehabilitation, and clinical settings. These real-world learning opportunities allow students to apply classroom concepts in professional and research environments:
Faculty-led research on topics such as tissue biomechanics, physical activity behaviors, motor learning, injury and illness risk and rehabilitation—where students can assist with ongoing studies, earn course credit, and present findings at academic conferences
Independent study projects tailored to individual interests and professional goals
Internships in clinical, athletic, and community wellness settings across the Charleston region
Study abroad programs exploring international perspectives on exercise science, health, and nutrition
Experiential learning helps students build technical skills, expand their professional networks, and apply scientific knowledge in a variety of real-world settings.
-
Internship Opportunities
Our department has strong ties to local and national industries. You will have the opportunity to internship with:
- Medical University of South Carolina's fitness facility.
- College of Charleston’s own student recreation center.
- local sport and exercise organizations.
- registered dietitians.
- Charleston’s USL team, the Charleston Battery.
- College of Charleston athletics and sports performance.
-
Faculty Expertise
We have a dedicated and dynamic faculty with a vast expertise. They are experts in
- biomechanics.
- strength and conditioning.
- exercise immunology.
- kinesiology.
You'll be part of a rigorous academic community. Our faculty of experienced professional will provide you with a diverse and innovative experiences in the field of exercise science.
Careers & Outcomes
- Certified Exercise Physiologist (certification required)
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (certification required)
- Group Exercise Instructor (certification optional)
- Personal Trainer (certification optional)
- Workplace Wellness Program Coordinator
- Physical Therapist (DPT)
- Occupational Therapist (OTD)
- Athletic Trainer (ATC)
- Physician Assistant (PA-C)
- Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP)
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP)
- Registered Dietitian (RD)
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
- Academic or Research Professional (MS, MEd, MPH, or PhD)
Charting a Course in Physical Therapy
Exercise science major Bency Young turned quiet uncertainty into a passion for pediatric physical therapy. Scholarship support, faculty encouragement and hands on clinical internships at ATI and MUSC helped shaper her journey toward an inspiring career.
Read More