Exercise Science
The Exercise Science Program at Minnesota State Mankato is designed to provide a comprehensive, science-based, and human-centered education. With access to renowned educators and the cutting-edge facilities at the Holbrook Exercise Physiology Center, students are encouraged to pursue their big ideas and develop the skills necessary to succeed in the evolving and rewarding field of exercise science.
Careers in Exercise Science
- Sport Coaching
- Chiropractor
- Strength and Conditioning
- Cardiac Rehabilitation
- Sport Psychology
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Athletic Training
- Sport Coaching
- Corporate Wellness
- Public Health
- Chiropractor
- M.D. or Physician Assistant
- Fitness Industry
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
Potential Salary
Median Salary $54,860
Exercise Science Degrees at MSU
Exercise Science, Bachelor of Science–General Exercise Science
Exercise Science: General focuses on the study of the acute and chronic physiological responses to physical activity and exercise. Students learn to create evidence and science-based physical activity and exercise training programs that promote active lifestyles, aid recovery, reduce injury risk, and improve human performance. The general emphasis prepares students for careers or graduate education in exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, occupational therapy, athletic training, sports nutrition and other allied health disciplines.
Exercise Science, Bachelor of Science–Practitioner Emphasis
The curriculum explores physiological responses to physical activity and prepares students to create evidence-based exercise programs that promote active lifestyles, aid recovery, reduce injury risk, and enhance performance. The Exercise Science Practitioner path prepares students for graduate education in physical therapy, physician assistant, osteopathic medicine, prosthetics and orthotics, podiatry, and other allied health disciplines.
Sports Medicine, Minor
The Sports Medicine minor is intended for students who are interested in the broad field of Sports Medicine.
Exercise Physiology, Master of Science
The Exercise Physiology program prepares graduate students on the latest science of performance testing and exercise prescription for a wide range of populations.
Exercise Science, Bachelor of Science–General Exercise Science
Exercise Science: General focuses on the study of the acute and chronic physiological responses to physical activity and exercise. Students learn to create evidence and science-based physical activity and exercise training programs that promote active lifestyles, aid recovery, reduce injury risk, and improve human performance. The general emphasis prepares students for careers or graduate education in exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, occupational therapy, athletic training, sports nutrition and other allied health disciplines.
Exercise Science, Bachelor of Science–Practitioner Emphasis
The curriculum explores physiological responses to physical activity and prepares students to create evidence-based exercise programs that promote active lifestyles, aid recovery, reduce injury risk, and enhance performance. The Exercise Science Practitioner path prepares students for graduate education in physical therapy, physician assistant, osteopathic medicine, prosthetics and orthotics, podiatry, and other allied health disciplines.
Sports Medicine, Minor
The Sports Medicine minor is intended for students who are interested in the broad field of Sports Medicine.
Exercise Physiology, Master of Science
The Exercise Physiology program prepares graduate students on the latest science of performance testing and exercise prescription for a wide range of populations.
Viola Holbrook Physiology Center
The Dr. Viola Holbrook Exercise Physiology Center allows for innovative research to be conducted by faculty and students in the Exercise Physiology Master's degree program. Undergraduate students in our Exercise Science program utilize the lab for a variety of courses.
Exercise is Medicine Club
The EIM Campus club (a part of the American College of Sports Medicine) works to promote and provide physical activity opportunities at Minnesota State Mankato.
Pre PT/OT Club
A recognized student organization that educates and prepares students who are interested in pursuing a career in physical or occupational therapy. A variety of topics are covered in regular meetings including application processes, GRE, and observation/volunteer opportunities. The club participates in numerous community volunteer activities.
Learn More
About Exercise Physiology
The field of Exercise Physiology encompasses all aspects of human physiology including cardiovascular adaptation, nutrition, muscle development, and biomechanics. We work with populations of all ages and activity levels ranging from elite athletes to sedentary peoples.
Fitness Tests
Fitness testing can be a valuable tool in determining overall health status or when training for specific performance outcomes. The Holbrook Center offers various fitness testing and interpretation of aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity, body composition, and metabolic rate assessments.
Research in Exercise Science
Research plays an integral part of education in exercise science. Our goal is to create evidence-based practitioners in the exercise science field. Understanding and implementing research is crucial for program evaluation, rehabilitation implementation, and health decision making.
Related Programs
Health and Physical Education
The Health and Physical Education major at Minnesota State Mankato is dedicated to preparing future teachers to educate young learners on the critical importance of physical activity. Through classroom learning and real-world teaching experiences, students gain the expertise to design and execute comprehensive physical education programs that encourage students to commit to health and fitness.
Health Communication
The Health Communication Program combines coursework from Communication and Media, Technical Communication, and Applied Health Sciences to prepare students for careers in health or medical fields, emphasizing effective communication to enhance health literacy, influence healthy behaviors, and improve outcomes and patient satisfaction in various health contexts.
Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology
The Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology program at Minnesota State Mankato focuses on applied learning and real-world research. Guided by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology’s Code of Ethics, the program prepares graduates for impactful careers in coaching, athletic training, wellness, and sports psychology consulting. With an emphasis on diversity and ethical practice, students gain the skills to thrive in the field.
Sport Management
The Sport Management program at Minnesota State Mankato is a specialized business degree that focuses on essential topics such as marketing, event management, facility operations, and financial management within the sports context. The comprehensive program prepares graduates to lead, innovate, and leverage opportunities in the fast-evolving sports management industry.
Department of Exercise Science
College of
Allied Health and Nursing
The College of Allied Health and Nursing is a thriving community dedicated to preparing future leaders in nursing, communication sciences, and health-related fields. With state-of-the-art learning centers, real-world experiences clinical practicums and fieldwork, and strong community connections, students gain the hands-on training needed for success. Committed to equity and inclusion, we create an environment where all learners can excel and make a meaningful impact in health and wellness.