Movement Science Degree, Exercise Science Concentration, B.S.

Movement Science student running on a treadmill during a lab activity.

Step Into a Healthier Future with Exercise Science

The Exercise Science concentration is a great choice for students interested in careers in fitness, strength and conditioning, or helping people recover through exercise. All students in the major take core classes that cover how the body moves, stays healthy, and performs—including courses in kinesiology, exercise science, nutrition, and motor learning or development. Students also take classes that focus on research and understanding different cultures in health and wellness.

To stay on track in the program, students need to keep at least a 2.5 GPA in their major classes and meet certain checkpoints along the way, like getting CPR certified and completing professional development activities. Students interested in Exercise Science apply to the concentration—usually in their sophomore year—once they’ve completed certain classes and observation hours. A minimum overall GPA of 2.7 is required to apply.

Once accepted, students explore topics like injury prevention, group fitness, strength training, fitness testing, program planning, and working with special populations. Students finish the program with a hands-on internship that helps prepare them for careers or graduate study in the field.

Program Highlights

  • Gain practical skills through internships and clinical opportunities
  • Explore fitness and health through both physical training and mental well-being
  • Connect with industry professionals through events and organizational memberships

The Exercise Science Program is accredited by the Commission of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) through the Commission on the Accreditation of the Exercise Sciences (CoAES). CAAHEP accredited programs are assessed on an ongoing basis to assure that they meet the Standards and Guidelines of students seeking employment in the health, fitness and exercise industry as adopted by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and related organizations. The Exercise Science Program is also recognized by the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) as an Education Recognition Program (ERP) that meets approved and standardized strength and conditioning & personal training curricula. 

Westfield State University and the Exercise Science concentration has been recognized as an Exercise Is Medicine on Campus (EIMOC) Recognition credential Silver Level through our primary professional organization, American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the American Medical Association (AMA). EIMOC goals are to provide opportunities for physical activity, create a culture on campus that embraces movement as a daily facet of life and provide the behavioral tools necessary to enact that change to facilitate lifelong physical activity habits and meet public health goals. Exercise Science students are the ambassadors for the EIMOC program. The mission of EIMOC is to foster collaborative relationships and leadership on campus between exercise, health and other disciplines that support EIMOC. The vision of EIMOC is to see all campus and community members adopt principles of physical activity throughout their lifespan with evidence-based resources and connecting university health care providers with university health fitness specialists to provide a referral system for exercise prescription. 

Logos for CAAHEP, NSCA, and EIMOC.

Ready to Make an Impact in Health and Fitness?

Apply now and start your journey in Exercise Science!

Empowering Future Fitness Leaders with Knowledge and Experience

  • Group of students jumping off a green gymnasium floor

    Foundational Knowledge for Diverse Careers

    Blending scientific theory with hands-on learning, students develop a deep understanding of how the human body moves and responds to physical activity. They explore the science behind improving health, fitness, and athletic performance, gaining skills valuable in rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and wellness coaching. With a focus on real-world application, the concentration equips students to design safe and effective exercise programs that support people of all ages and abilities. 

  • Student riding a stationary bike during a workout in the campus fitness center.

    Certification-Ready Training

    Students in the Exercise Science concentration are thoroughly prepared to pursue certification exams from leading organizations, including the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). The curriculum is designed to align with the certification requirements, allowing graduates to enter the workforce with the professional credentials necessary to advance in the competitive fitness and health industry.

  • Student performing a strength training exercise with free weights.

    Hands-On Learning and Internship Opportunities

    The program emphasizes real-world experience, ensuring students apply their learning through internships. These internships offer invaluable opportunities to work in fitness centers, sports clinics, rehabilitation facilities, and more. Students leave the program not only with a strong academic foundation but also practical experience that makes them job-ready and capable of tackling challenges in health and performance environments.

Program Details

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program students will have met the academic requirements necessary to sit for an examination for a nationally recognized certification in exercise and sport science.

2025 Program Outcomes:

  • Culminating Experience Pass Rate: 100%
  • Graduate Positive Placement: 100%
Learning Outcomes
  • Students will understand and demonstrate cultural competence.
  • Students will understand the need for and will demonstrate proficiency in written and oral communications and be able to utilize different forms of current technology.
  • Students will use reflective practices to plan, implement and evaluate program, personal, community and professional goals.
  • Students will demonstrate an ability to explain the relevance of scientific and theoretical knowledge appropriate to his/her chosen field of study to everyday problems.
  • Students will utilize critical inquiry to advance knowledge and apply that knowledge to practice.
  • Students will understand the importance of and will engage in professional behaviors including pursuit of appropriate credentials.
  • Students will understand the role of Physical Activity in the Health and Wellness of individuals across the lifespan.
  • Students will value and participate in Civic Engagement.

What Can You Do with a Movement Science Degree, Exercise Science Concentration, B.S.?

A B.S. in Movement Science with a concentration in Exercise Science prepares you for a variety of careers focused on health, fitness, and human performance. The program combines academic coursework with hands-on experience, equipping you to work in commercial gyms, corporate wellness programs, hospital-based settings, and more—or to continue on to graduate study in related areas. Here’s what you can do with this degree:

  • Certified Personal Trainer
  • Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Corporate Wellness Coordinator
  • Rehabilitation or Physical Therapy Aide
  • Health and Fitness Program Director
  • Graduate Study Opportunities
Student smiling while exercising in the fitness center.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

The Exercise Science Program is proudly accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) through the Commission on the Accreditation of the Exercise Sciences (CoAES). This means that when you successfully complete the program, you'll have met the academic requirements needed to sit for nationally recognized certification exams in exercise and sport science - setting you up for a strong start in your professional journey.

How to Join the Exercise Science Concentration:

Students in the Department of Sports Medicine and Human Performance are invited to apply to the Exercise Science Concentration. As a graduate, you'll earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Movement Science with a concentration in Exercise Science. Admission is competitive, and the number of students accepted each year varies based on available space and graduation rates. The Exercise Science Concentration is a minimum 4-semester commitment, so students are strongly encouraged to apply by the end of the first semester of their second year.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

To be considered for admission, students must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be accepted into the Movement Science Major
  2. Complete MOVP 0100 
  3. Enrolled in, or completed, MOVP 0101 
  4. Complete a minimum of 20 observation hours across four different types of facilities
  5. Hold current CPR and First Aid certifications
  6. Be a member of a relevant professional organization
  7. Have a minimum overall GPA of 2.7

Application materials and full program details can be found in the Exercise Science Concentration Manual.

Transfer Students Welcome

Transfer students are considered on an indiviual basis in accordance with University admission policies. If you've taken relevant courses or completed clinical experiences at another insitution, you may be eligible for credit - just be sure to submit:

  • A course description
  • A course syllabus
  • Confirmation of grade and course completion

All transfer course approvals must go through the Department Chair and/or Program Director(s) prior to applying. To graduate from the Exercise Science Concentration, students must acheive Advanced Standing and successfully complete a supervised internship.

Movement Science Major Core (27 credits)

Majors in the Department of Sports Medicine and Human Performance must complete the 27-credit Major Core curriculum, along with general education coursework, concentration-specific requirements, and professional development benchmarks, including Intermediate Standing and Advanced Standing.

The Major Core is organized into four key areas: Scientific Foundations, Motor Behavior, Evidence-Based Practices, and Cultural Competence.

Please note: requirements within the Major Core may vary slightly depending on your concentration. Be sure to review your program plan or speak with your advisor for guidance. There are minimum GPA requirements to be eligible for graduation:

  • Major Core: minimum 2.5 GPA
  • Concentration: minimum 2.7 GPA (3.0 for PE)
  • Overall: minimum 2.8 GPA

Scientific Foundations (18 credits)

Motor Behavior (3 credits)

Choose one of the following courses based on your concentration:

Evidence-Based Practice (3 credits)

Choose one of the following courses based on your concentration:

Cultural Competence (3 credits)

Choose one of the following courses based on your concentration:

Professional Development Procedures

Active participation in professional practices and development opportunities outside of coursework is an essential requirement of the Movement Science major. Throughout the program, students must document these experiences in an E-Portfolio, along with other specified criteria, to meet the Intermediate Standing and Advanced Standing benchmarks required for academic progression.

At the core of the department's philosophy is the belief that true professional growth extends beyond the classroom. Engaging in professional development opportunities-such as attending academic lectures and campus events, volunteering in clinical or community settings, participating in social justice-oriented educational activities, and taking on leadership roles in professional clubs or conferences-allows students to apply their knowledge, build meaningful connections, and cultivate the habits, confidence, and adaptability required in real-world settings. These experiences not only enrich academic learning but also prepare students to be reflective, proactive, and effective professionals in their chosen fields. The department regularly announces a variety of on- and off-campus events that support professional development. Students are also encouraged to take initiative and pursue additional opportunities of personal and professional interest beyond those formally promoted or announced.

Intermediate Standing

Students should submit the Intermediate Standing E-Portfolio during their sophomore year. Successful completion of this benchmark allows students to continue in their concentration with upper-level courses (300- and 400-level). Additional information can be found in the SMHP department manual and concentration manuals. For concentration specific requirements, students must consult the manual and thei academic advisors.

Intermediate Standing Requirements:

  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the following two (2) courses:
  • Intermediate Standing Application
  • Student Acknowledgement Form
  • Copy of Degree Evaluation
  • Current First Aid/CPR Certification
  • Minimum of 12 Professional Development Points (PDPs) across four (4) different areas:
    • Academic (3), Clinical (3), Professional (3), and Social Justice (3)
  • Writing Sample (ENGL 0101; graded; B- or higher)

Advanced Standing

Students should submit the Advanced Standing E-Portfolio in the semester prior to their culminating practicum/internship/field experience. Advanced Standing is a high-stakes benchmark. Successful completion of this benchmark allows students to participate in practicum/internship/field experience. Additional information can be found in the SMHP department manual and concentration manuals. For concentration specific requirements, students must consult the manual and thei academic advisors.

Advanced Standing Requirements:

  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the Major Core (27 credits)
  • Minimum GPA of 2.7 in Concentration (3.0 for Physical Education Licensure)
  • Minimum GPA of 2.8 Overall
  • Advanced Standing Application
  • Intermediate Standing Approval Letter
  • Personal Statment (PE/EXCS/PHPA)/ Cover Letter (SM)
  • Professional Resume
  • Current First Aid/CPR
  • Current Membership in a professional organization
  • Three (3) department faculty recommendations
  • Two (2) recommendation from outside the department/university
  • Minimum of 16 Professional Development Points (PDPs) across four (4) different areas:
    • Academic (4), Clinical (4), Professional (4), and Social Justice (4)
Exercise Science Concentration

Required Courses

The following is a listing of the Exercise Science Concentration course requirements beyond those of the Movement Science Core:

Note:

Additional information about the Exercise Science Program may be found in the Exercise Science Program Manual.

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a welcoming campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 17:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    Of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship opportunities

Personalized Attention from Dedicated Faculty

At our institution, faculty members hold advanced degrees in the subjects they teach. Imagine a learning environment where personalized attention is not just a promise but a reality. Your professors are not just educators; they are mentors committed to expanding your horizons. Through a blend of dynamic coursework and hands-on projects, we're dedicated to not just teaching but elevating your knowledge and skills.

Movement Science faculty member in conversation with two students.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more.

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or Student Accessibility Services, the academic support team is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth.

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Movement Science Degree, Exercise Science Concentration, B.S.