OnlineBachelorsDegree.Guide

Top Online Exercise Sports Science Degree Programs Ranked For 2025

We've compiled the most up-to-date information on these fully or mostly online Online Exercise Sports Science degree programs across the U.S. This data is accurate as of March 21, 2025. We carefully reviewed quality, affordability, and student outcomes to bring you the best options. Explore our updated rankings below to find the program that's right for you.

#1

Concordia University, St. Paul

Online B.A. in Exercise Science

$420 per credit
2 years
Online

Key Highlights

["Complete a career-connected curriculum", "Gain hands-on experience", "95% of students are employed a year after graduation", "Free transfer credit evaluation", "Six convenient start dates per year"]

Program Description

CSP Global’s Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science helps students to gain a deeper understanding of exercise science, the health and fitness world, and their place in these industries in order to pursue positions in coaching, fitness, personal training, and rehab. In this program, students study nutrition, anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and applied exercise prescription under the guidance of industry-experienced faculty members. The knowledge gained will be applied in real-world situations by completing an interest-based internship. The online exercise science degree provides a liberal arts perspective through the general education core, plus 44 credit hours in the major. The career-connected curriculum prepares students to sit for the ACSM-CPT certification and the following examinations: NETA, NSCA, ACSM, ACE, and AFFA.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: Completed online application, official transcripts from your previous regionally accredited institution(s) with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 based on a 4.0 system. Transfer students with fewer than 20 college credits completed will also need to submit an official high school transcript.

Skills You'll Gain

["Understanding of the principles and concepts of kinesiology and allied health.", "Apply knowledge of human anatomy and the musculoskeletal system to assess one\u2019s development and abilities.", "Demonstrate knowledge of the effects of physical activity on the body\u2019s functions."]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $420
  • Total Estimated Program Cost: $50,400
  • Additional Cost Information:
    Convenient payment options and $2,000 partnership scholarships are available.
Visit Program Website
$409 per credit
Fully Online

Key Highlights

["Taught by nationally recognized faculty", "Ample course availability for self-paced completion", "Opportunities to engage with faculty to increase career preparedness", "Flexible internship program allows students to complete an internship as a distance learner", "Four different online minors to tailor your program for success in your future career"]

Program Description

The online Bachelor’s degree in Human Performance from UW-Whitewater prepares students for careers in exercise science, cardiac rehabilitation, exercise physiology, fitness/strength training, recreation, and sport management. Using a fully online, asynchronous platform, students learn practical skills and develop the knowledge needed to be a leader within the Kinesiology profession. The program allows tailoring coursework by selecting a minor that aligns with specific career goals. The flexible internship program builds resumes while accommodating life-work responsibilities. The engaging faculty supports students and provides opportunities beyond the virtual classroom. The 120 credit B.S. in Human Performance includes 45 credits of general education, 6 credits of Bachelor of Science degree requirements, 47 credits of major coursework (including a 6-credit internship and 3-credit capstone), and a minor (typically 22 credits). Online minors in health promotion, recreation, strength and conditioning, and sport management are available, or students can choose a minor outside the department.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: ["Health Promotion", "Recreation", "Strength and Conditioning", "Sport Management"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

null

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $409
Visit Program Website
$350 per credit
Online

Key Highlights

["Partnership with National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)", "Access to NASM certification exams at preferred student pricing", "Study human movement and behavior", "Learn from faculty with real-world expertise", "Affiliated with the guidelines of the American Sport Education Program (ASEP)"]

Program Description

Explore exercise science, exercise testing and programming, fitness, nutrition, health, and wellness with a bachelor's degree in sports and health sciences from American Public University (APU). Through a partnership with the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), you will have access to their proprietary course content and certification exams as a Certified Professional Trainer (CPT), Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES), Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES), and Group Fitness Instructor (GFI)—all available at preferred student pricing. Through APU’s online BS in Sports and Health Sciences, you engage in the scientific study of human movement and behavior, providing a window into optimizing health and wellness in an age when life expectancies continue to rise. Your studies include anatomy and physiology, sports psychology, and kinesiology—topics that are fundamental to the allied health professions. You will learn from respected faculty who share their real-world expertise as researchers, athletic trainers, physical therapists, coaches, fitness center directors, and nutrition and health consultants. This B.S. degree in Sports and Health Sciences is affiliated with the guidelines of the American Sport Education Program (ASEP).

Program Features

  • Concentrations: ["Fitness and Wellness Professional Studies"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Apply exercise science concepts to a variety of sports and fitness activities", "Implement motivational strategies and tactics to guide practice and performance aimed at improving physical activity", "Advance fitness, readiness, and performance", "Educate various populations on the basic concepts of a healthful diet and how to use nutritional guidelines to improve performance", "Manage sports-related injuries with basic first aid principles"]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $350
  • Additional Cost Information:
    Material for lab courses will only be provided once. If you need replacement lab equipment for any reason or need to retake the course later, you will need to purchase your own lab refills.
Visit Program Website
$350 per credit
Online

Key Highlights

["Partnership with National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)", "Access to proprietary course content and certification exams (CPT, PES, CES, GFI)", "Covers essential topics foundational to allied health professions", "Affiliated with the guidelines of the American Sport Education Program (ASEP)"]

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Sports and Health Sciences at American Military University (AMU) provides a scientific study of human movement and human behavior. This program partners with the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) to provide access to proprietary course content and certification exams as a Certified Professional Trainer (CPT), Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES), Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES), and Group Fitness Instructor (GFI). NASM exams are made available at preferred student pricing. The program covers essential topics, considered foundational to the allied health professions, including exercise science, exercise testing and programming, fitness, nutrition, health and wellness, anatomy and physiology, and kinesiology. Fellow students may include drill sergeants and other military servicemembers, tactical fitness specialists, law enforcement, fire and rescue, and other professionals responsible for physically preparing individuals for their roles. This B.S. degree in Sports and Health Sciences is affiliated with the guidelines of the American Sport Education Program (ASEP).

Program Features

  • Concentrations: ["Fitness and Wellness Professional Studies"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Apply exercise science concepts to a variety of sports and fitness activities", "Implement motivational strategies and tactics to guide practice and performance aimed at improving physical activity", "Advance fitness, readiness, and performance", "Educate various populations on the basic concepts of a healthful diet and how to use nutritional guidelines to improve performance", "Manage sports-related injuries with basic first aid principles"]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $350
Visit Program Website
$395 per credit
100% Online

Key Highlights

["Locked-In Tuition program guarantees the same price for the entire undergraduate degree.", "Comprehensive scientific perspective of health, from movement, anatomy, and nutrition to psychology.", "Learn to develop fitness plans using science, research, and data.", "Earn up to 9 credit hours for NASM certifications."]

Program Description

ACU’s online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science program provides a multifaceted scientific perspective of health and human movement activities. You'll study the psychological, structural, physiological, and mechanical aspects of health and human movement. The program focuses on understanding the scientific basis for fitness and how the body responds to exercise. Coursework covers movement, nutrition, kinesiology, exercise science, leadership, and research to develop fitness and wellness plans. The curriculum tackles mechanical, structural, physiological, and psychological factors influencing fitness outcomes. Students will learn about the relationship between fitness, performance, and health; nutrition in relation to exercise; kinesiology; exercise science principles; leadership and management skills; acute and chronic physiological responses to exercises; and research methods. The program prepares graduates for entry-level fitness careers or further professional studies.

Program Features

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: Submit official high school and/or college transcripts. Complete the online program application.

Skills You'll Gain

["Provide targeted, in-depth instruction on how the body moves and operates.", "Guide others toward their fitness goals.", "Optimize performance by understanding how the body functions and responds before and after fitness.", "Create fitness and wellness plans based on a comprehensive scientific perspective of health.", "Develop fitness plans using science, research, and data to meet individual needs."]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $395
  • Additional Cost Information:
    $300 resource fee per term
Visit Program Website
$435 per credit
4 years
100% Online

Key Highlights

["100% online and asynchronous", "No application fee", "Transfer up to 93 credit hours", "Eight-week terms"]

Program Description

Methodist University’s BS in Exercise & Sport Science utilizes small class sizes and immersive learning to help you build the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career. In online courses led by a dynamic faculty, you’ll explore exercise technique, human nutrition, strength and conditioning, and more. MU offers a convenient online format and simple application process with no application fee and transfer credits accepted. The online BS in Exercise & Sport Science program delivers a rigorous curriculum designed to equip you with a deep understanding of human exercise and nutrition. Through asynchronous online courses, you’ll explore exercise science topics including human anatomy, sport psychology, biomechanics, emergency care, and more.

Program Features

  • Accreditation: SACSCOC-Accredited
  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: {"A high school diploma or GED","Official transcripts (if you have transfer credits) and a high school transcript or GED transcript","Visual Verification of Identity (VVOI)"}

Skills You'll Gain

["Develop and apply appropriate listening, communication, writing, and critical thinking skills.", "Demonstrate an understanding of health, wellness, fitness, and athletic performance.", "Conduct health, fitness, and athletic performance assessments.", "Use the FITT principle to prescribe safe and goal directed exercise plans.", "Develop an effective understanding of exercise motivation and strategies.", "Demonstrate understanding of the multifaceted approach needed to effectively manage a health/fitness facility."]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $435

Contact Information

Visit Program Website
$24,766 in-state tuition per year
100% Online

Key Highlights

["100% online coursework with flexible scheduling.", "Program recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognition Program.", "Study human movement and performance remotely through a state-of-the-art Human Performance Lab.", "Two concentrations available: Wellness Management and Strength and Conditioning.", "Real-world experience through project-based learning and educational agreements with industry leaders."]

Program Description

The online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree program from Maryville University is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become exercise professionals. The program covers key concepts like human movement, nutrition, exercise program design, counseling and coaching, behavioral strategies, sport management, and business. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of human performance and learn how to apply this knowledge in various settings. It prepares students to help people get fit and stay healthy. The curriculum is designed with input from top employers and taught by industry professionals. The program emphasizes practical, in-demand skills, allowing students to tailor their education through specialized electives and concentrations. Graduates will be prepared for careers in fitness, wellness, sports, and healthcare, and can pursue certifications to enhance their career opportunities.

Program Features

  • Accreditation: National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognition Program
  • Concentrations: ["Wellness Management", "Strength and Conditioning"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: Not explicitly stated, but application requires no fee and no SAT/ACT.

Skills You'll Gain

["Human movement and physical activity", "Tactical strength and conditioning", "Nutrition", "Exercise prescription and program design", "Business acumen"]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $24,766/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $24,766/year
Visit Program Website
#8

The University of Saint Mary

Online B.S. in Exercise Science

$425 per credit
2 years
Online

Key Highlights

["Opportunity to pursue certifications from ACSM, NSCA, NASM, and more.", "Learn basic life-saving emergency care and first aid treatment skills.", "Apply nutrition strategies to improve exercise performance and health.", "Gain practical experience through internships.", "Taught by certified, expert faculty with terminal degrees and specialized certifications."]

Program Description

The University of Saint Mary exercise science program offers dynamic courses, practical internships, and quality instruction that lead to a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. The program focuses on essential exercise science topics like life-saving emergency care, nutrition strategies, biomechanics, and the impact of exercise on specific diseases and special conditions to prepare for a wide range of potential career opportunities. Students learn theories and principles in anatomy and physiology, human kinetics, motor development, nutrition and wellness, psychology, and strength training and conditioning. The program prepares students to promote healthy lifestyles in various settings such as rehabilitation, corporate health environments, athletics, and health centers, equipping them with expertise in exercise physiology and anatomy. Graduates are prepared for many career opportunities and can pursue certifications through nationally recognized organizations.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: A 2.0 GPA on at least 12 credits of previously completed transferable college coursework, or a 2.75 high school GPA for students with no prior college experience, or a GED exam demonstrating college readiness.

Skills You'll Gain

["Basic life-saving emergency care and first aid treatment skills", "Application of nutrition strategies to improve exercise performance and health", "Familiarity with basic biomechanics to analyze posture and movement dysfunctions", "Ability to identify and prevent sport injuries", "Understanding of the impact of exercise on certain diseases and special conditions", "Ability to perform fitness assessments and write individualized exercise prescriptions"]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $425
  • Additional Cost Information:
    Related course fees that cover some online learning materials embedded in specific courses, a $200 graduation fee, and a $25 tutor.com fee.
Visit Program Website
$11,308 in-state tuition per year
Online

Key Highlights

["Solid background in preventative health care", "Prepares you for certification in top health and wellness fields", "Customizable coursework to match career goals", "Hands-on, experiential learning", "Learn alongside certified experts in health education and coaching"]

Program Description

Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in health sciences with a concentration in healthy lifestyles and fitness science online is designed for those who are passionate about the lifestyle-based aspects of health and wellness. By combining the study of exercise and nutrition with human behavior and motivation, this program provides you with a solid background in preventative health care and prepares you for certification in the top health and wellness fields. This program combines the study of health education and promotion, health coaching and fitness science. You’ll gain the abilities needed to lead individuals and communities in improving their health. Key learning areas include nutrition, exercise, stress management, behavior change, social determinants of health and health promotion management. You’ll also learn to communicate effectively, employ emotional intelligence and build relationships with clients to help them reach their health goals. You’ll also gain competencies in community advocacy, motivational interviewing, positive psychology coaching, scientific writing, social media literacy and more.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: ["Fitness science", "Health and wellness coaching", "Health education and health promotion"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent and completion of at least 14 specified courses (math, English, lab sciences, social sciences, second language, fine arts or career and technical education) with minimum GPA and test scores.

Skills You'll Gain

["Nutrition", "Exercise", "Stress management", "Behavior change", "Social determinants of health", "Health promotion management", "Effective communication", "Emotional intelligence", "Community advocacy", "Motivational interviewing", "Positive psychology coaching", "Scientific writing", "Social media literacy"]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $11,308/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $31,450/year
Visit Program Website
$11,308 in-state tuition per year
Online

Key Highlights

["Prepares students to work with participants in sports, occupational and tactical environments.", "Students learn athlete assessment and performance programming.", "Students understand how to enhance performance potential and recognize and respond to the stress the body undergoes during training.", "Coursework prepares graduates to sit for certification testing through the National Strength and Conditioning Association for certified strength and conditioning specialist or tactical strength and conditioning facilitator credentials.", "Graduates are prepared to work in the sports performance field or pursue graduate study in sports science, athletic training or other exercise science-related disciplines."]

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science program in sports science and performance programming prepares students to work with participants in sports, occupational and tactical environments, taking them to new physical heights. Students learn the complexities of athlete assessment and performance programming, which can be applied in sport science, sports medicine, strength and conditioning, or tactical performance. Students understand how to enhance performance potential and recognize and respond to the stress the body undergoes during training, enabling them to plan successful exercise and recovery programs. The National Strength and Conditioning Association has identified that advanced knowledge of human physiology, biomechanics, exercise prescription and assessment technologies is necessary for future success as a sports or tactical performance specialist.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: General university admission requirements.

Skills You'll Gain

["Apply coaching strategies to maximize efficiency and performance of individuals and reduce the risk of injury under high stress during performance training.", "Understand the scientific foundations that govern adaptation and movement optimization identified as foundational competencies for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist examination and necessary to properly construct advanced performance programs.", "Create evidence-based sports performance programs designed to improve individual and/or team performance and reduce the risk of injury potential during their participation in their activities."]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $11,308/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $31,450/year
Visit Program Website
#11

California Baptist University

Online Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology

$520 per credit
100% Online

Key Highlights

["Prepare to enter multiple health and wellness professions", "Rigorous curriculum", "Applied emphasis with real-world insights from experienced professionals", "Effective preparation aligned with NSCA and ACSM standards", "Transfer friendly \u2014 consolidate your undergraduate college credits and finish your degree"]

Program Description

California Baptist University’s online Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology degree program translates your interest in fitness into an entry-level career focusing on physical activity and lifestyle habits at individual and community levels. This body of knowledge opens the door to various roles in fitness and wellness-related fields and paves the way ahead to multiple graduate health science programs. The curriculum blends physical education and exercise science while stressing how theories are applied in multiple health and wellness contexts. Fully online courses are taught by professionals with experience in the field, including public school teachers and recreation and athletic directors. The structure of the online Bachelor’s in Kinesiology aligns with National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) standards. Coursework prepares you to sit for each organization’s certification exam.

Program Features

  • Accreditation: Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Effectively present information orally and in writing, and demonstrate proficiency in the use of technology.", "Effectively and responsibly communicate relevant information to demographically varied populations.", "Research, describe and apply the functions of the human body as they relate to human performance, exercise, activity and physical development.", "Describe functions of the human body and implement appropriate interventions as they relate to issues of health and wellness.", "Identify and describe the proper avenues for professional development and career advancement.", "Describe, design, and demonstrate appropriate methods of teaching and application of kinesiology-related skills.", "Integrate faith, values and ethics in the practical application of kinesiology."]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $520
  • Additional Cost Information:
    +fees
Visit Program Website
$12,143 in-state tuition per year
100% Online

Key Highlights

["Aligned with NASM and NSCA competencies", "Preparation for NASM\u2019s Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) exam", "Qualify to sit for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) cert with NSCA", "Stackable programs allow transfer of credits from Personal Trainer Certificate and Associate Degree", "Emphasis on practical experience with simulated job tasks"]

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Nutrition Management program at Bryan University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the growing health and fitness industry. This program focuses on providing a unique skill set and preparing students for careers as health and fitness professionals, exercise instructors, nutrition coaches, and personal trainers. The curriculum covers advanced anatomy, physiology, health screening, sports performance assessments, ergogenic aids counseling, exercise psychology and motivation, and exercise programming for specialty populations. Students also learn about rest, recovery, corrective exercise strategies, sports nutrition, and nutrition coaching, along with essential business skills for self-employment, including marketing, management, and leadership. Emphasis is placed on practical experience, aligning with competencies set by NASM and NSCA, and preparing students for certification exams such as the Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS).

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Advanced anatomy and physiology", "Advanced health screening", "Sports performance assessments", "Ergogenic aids counseling", "Exercise psychology and motivation", "Exercise programming for specialty populations", "Rest, recovery, and corrective exercise strategies", "Sports nutrition for athletes", "Nutrition for specialty populations", "Nutrition coaching", "Business skills for self-employment, including marketing, management and leadership", "Communications, writing, and research"]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $12,143/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $12,143/year
Visit Program Website
$7,325 in-state tuition per year
4 years
100% online

Key Highlights

["Focuses on psychological processes related to sport performance", "Covers motivation, mental training, and stress management", "Equips students with skills applicable in sports, exercise science, and wellness", "Prepares students for careers that support athletes and performers", "Prepares students for advanced study in psychology and related fields"]

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology at Kent State University examines the psychological factors influencing athletic and performance success. This online program covers motivation, mental training, and stress management, equipping students with skills applicable in sports, exercise science, and wellness. Graduates are prepared for careers that support athletes and performers in achieving their best, or for advanced study in psychology and related fields. The program provides students, athletes, and those preparing for careers as coaches and sport practitioners with the knowledge of psychological theory and skills to enhance human behavior in the sport and exercise settings and the performing arts. It explores social-psychological concepts such as motivation, self-confidence, anxiety, or burnout, and how these concepts interact with the sports environment to influence athletes and performance. The program prepares students with essential knowledge of psychological aspects of sport performance and ethical practice to work in wide-ranging sport-related fields or to further their education in their chosen careers via graduate programs and mental performance certification by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Explain the role of the individual and the environments in sport and exercise behavior.", "Demonstrate understanding of the foundation of motivation in sport sciences, learning and personal life.", "Define and illustrate the concepts, tools and application of mental skills and performance enhancement.", "Design and evaluate an applied research study from inception to conclusions.", "Define the standards for competence, domestic and global diversity and ethical principles (i.e., AASP and APA) and its role in sport psychology professional practice."]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $7,325/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $16,438/year
Visit Program Website

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