As an Exercise Science major, you will be immersed in the science of human movement in a hands-on educational environment. You will be trained in the valuable and practical skills necessary to help people achieve their highest physical potential while ensuring their safety and health. You will research, test, and analyze exercise through a variety of lenses including chemistry, kinesiology, nutrition, physics, and theology. With a B.S. in Exercise Science from Multnomah University, you will be prepared to embark into the world with a thorough understanding of the human body.

Ways to study

Undergraduate (Major) | On-campus

Program concentrations

Track A | Track B

Course plan

4-year

Application deadlines

Get Ready for the Next Steps in Your Career

You will develop practical research skills, learn innovative problem-solving techniques, and emerge as a critical thinker equipped to pursue a career in fitness or healthcare. Learn how your passion for athletic training or physical therapy intersects with your faith journey to build an ethical and spiritual foundation for your career. You will be ready for graduate-level training in sports medicine or physiology careers working with professional athletes or the general public.

Exercise Science or Athletic Training Students

Example Courses

The courses listed below are some of our featured core classes that will be a part of your educational journey here at MU. Take a look at each course for a small preview.

This course is the first in a two-semester sequence. The course will cover the anatomical (structural) and physiological (functional) aspects of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems with an emphasis on their roles in maintaining homeostasis. Principles of histology and tissue organization will be discussed as well. Anatomical and physiological terminology will be stressed. Laboratory sessions will include microscopic examination of tissues, dissection of preserved mammalian species, and performance of physiological experiments.

Kinesiology is the study of human movement and how anatomical and biomechanical principles affect human performance and fitness. This course will examine how bones, ligaments, cartilage, tendons, muscles, and nerves interact both structurally and functionally to allow for human movement. In addition, types of motion and range of motion will be examined, as will factors that both positively and negatively affect human movement. Application of kinesiology principles to everyday tasks, exercise, and sport skills will be emphasized. Offered alternate years.

The study of how the human body responds to both acute exercise stress and long-term physical activity. Neuromuscular, cardiorespiratory, metabolic, and hormonal responses to exercise will be examined. The impact of exercise and physical activity on the quality of life during human growth, development, and aging will be examined, as will factors that both positively and adversely affect fitness. Offered alternate years.

Students will learn about general medical conditions that may affect athletic performance. This course provides the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize the signs and symptoms of organ system pathologies and to allow for the evaluation and treatment of those conditions. Additionally, risk factors, including congenital and acquired disabilities, may be discussed as they relate to physical activity. Offered alternate years.

Degree Requirements

Here you will find everything you need to know about what is required to successfully complete your degree. Whether you are beginning college for the first time or are a transfer student, we’ve got you covered.

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Meet Your Professors

EmmaBaumertHeadshot
Emma Baumert, M.S.Ed.
Assistant Professor, Exercise Science
Faculty Headshot Sarah Gall
Sarah Gall, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chair, Biology

Program Concentrations

This track is designed for students anticipating careers in athletic training, sports psychology, physical therapy, chiropractic medicine, sports medicine, or additional graduate work in the health and human sciences.

This track is designed for students desiring an emphasis in Health Fitness, Sports Management, or Marketing.

Career Placement

As an Exercise Science graduate, you will be equipped with a wide range of knowledge and skills that are necessary for a variety of positions and careers. With your B.S. in Exercise Science, you will be prepared for roles or graduate-level study to move toward roles, such as:

• Exercise Physiologist • Athletic Trainer • Fitness Coach
• Kinesiologist • Osteopathic Physician • Registered Nurse
• Ergonomist • Sports Coach • Sports Medicine Physician