Exercise science
Overview

Exercise science is where science meets motion. Dive into the biology of movement, master the art of fitness assessment and learn to design personalized training programs that make a real impact. Whether you're pursuing a career in physical therapy, athletic training, or wellness coaching, St. Norbert College’s hands-on, career-focused exercise science major sets you up for success. With cutting-edge courses, immersive internships and a solid foundation in health science, you’ll graduate prepared to lead, serve, and thrive in today’s fast-paced health and fitness industry.

Credential Type

B.S.

Offered As

Major

Academic paths

The exercise science major at St. Norbert College offers an exciting academic path that includes core science courses like biology, chemistry, physics and statistics. Students complete general education requirements while learning about how the human body moves, stays healthy and performs at its best. This major works well with biology and opens doors to many careers. Whether you plan to go to graduate school or start working right away, you’ll gain the science knowledge and hands-on skills to succeed in today’s growing health and wellness fields.

Courses Checklist:
BIOL 120 Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
BIOL 121 Introduction to Organismal Biology
BIOL 216 Anatomy and Physiology 1
BIOL 217 Anatomy and Physiology 2
BIOL 244 Genetics or Medical Terminology (4 cr)
CHEM 105 General Chemistry 1
CHEM 107 General Chemistry 2
EXER 499 Senior Assessment (0 cr)
PHYS 111 Fundamental Physics 1 or PHYS 121 General Physics I
PHYS 112 Fundamental Physics 2 or PHYS 122 General Physics 2
SSCI 224 Basic Statistics or MATH 228 Introduction to Statistics 

Additional courses in:

  • Medical Terminology (4 cr)

  • Nutrition (3 cr) or Introduction to Nutrition (3 cr; offered through Rize)

  • Biomechanics (4 cr)

  • Exercise Physiology (4 cr)

  • Strength Training and Conditioning (2 cr)

  • Athletic Injuries and Illness (3 cr) or Exercise Evaluation and Performance Design (4 cr)

  • Capstone (4 cr)

  • Internship (4 cr)

Available Fall 2026, pending HLC approval.


Featured faculty

If there’s one thing that SNC professors and instructors have in common, it’s a passion for teaching and sharing their expertise. You’ll also find them dedicated to providing personalized guidance that supports your academic and career aspirations. Discover the distinguished scholars you’ll be learning from.

Professor of Biology and Environmental Science

Professor of Biology

Associate Professor of Biology

View all faculty

Student Name ’26
Audrey Makope ’22

“Everyone is dedicated to developing students & making them better people in every way when they leave.”

Audrey Makope ’22

Career outcomes

Whether you’re passionate about fitness, curious about how the body moves or driven to help others live healthier lives, SNC’s exercise science major opens the door to a wide range of meaningful careers. With a strong science foundation and hands-on experience, you’ll be ready to pursue roles like:

4
  • Exercise Physiologist (clinical or fitness-based)

  • Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist

  • Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist

  • Health/Wellness Coach

  • Personal Trainer

  • Strength and Conditioning Coach

  • Athletic Trainer

  • Corporate Wellness Coordinator

  • Health Policy Analyst

  • Orthopedic Technician

  • Physical Therapist

  • Occupational Therapist

  • Chiropractor


Graduate studies

If you’re inspired to take your exercise science education even further, St. Norbert College’s program sets you up for success in graduate school and beyond. Many students go on to pursue advanced degrees in physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, physician assistant studies, chiropractic care or medical school. The curriculum blends core science courses with hands-on experience, giving you the academic foundation and practical skills needed to thrive in competitive graduate programs.


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