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LIONEL UNIVERSITY • Since 1988

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

Build expertise in human performance, exercise programming, physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition—preparing you for careers in fitness, wellness, and clinical exercise or advanced graduate study.

Career paths: Strength Coach · Exercise Physiologist · Clinical Exercise Specialist · Corporate Wellness
4
Years
180
Total Credits
$333
Per Credit
100%
Online

REAL-WORLD VALUE

Bachelor's Degree Career-Relevant Education with Real-World Value

INdustry Aligned Skills

Industry Aligned Skills

Build career ready skills in exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, nutrition, behavior change, and fitness business through Lionel’s online Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

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Stackable Credentials

Earn industry recognized certifications including Certified Personal Trainer, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, and Strength and Conditioning Specialist while completing your exercise science degree.

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Career Focused

Prepare for careers in personal training, performance coaching, and wellness leadership with practical, real world exercise science training and Career Connect support.

CAREER-READY SKILLS

Job-Ready Exercise Science Skills From Day One

In Lionel University’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, you do not wait until graduation to build your professional profile. In your first few terms, you begin earning industry recognized personal training and fitness certifications while developing practical skills you can apply immediately in real world training environments.

 

Certified Personal Trainer Foundations

Develop core competencies required for a Certified Personal Trainer career, including anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics, client assessment, program design, foundational nutrition, special populations training, and injury prevention.These are the essential technical skills required in personal training and strength coaching roles.

Coaching and Strength & Conditioning Skills

Learn how to assess movement patterns, design progressive strength and conditioning programs, and adapt workouts for athletes and general fitness clients. Build confidence in delivering safe, results driven coaching aligned with industry standards in performance training.

Applied Nutrition and Fitness Wellness Principles

Develop foundational knowledge in fitness nutrition, lifestyle coaching, and recovery strategies that support long term health, performance, and longevity.

Professional Communication and Client Engagement

Strengthen the leadership and communication skills required to motivate clients, build trust, and create lasting behavior change in fitness and wellness settings.

Business and Entrepreneurship Foundations

Develop the business skills required to build and sustain a successful career in the Exercise Science industry. Learn the fundamentals of client acquisition and retention, service pricing and positioning, marketing strategies for Exercise Science professionals, and personal branding.

Behavior Change and Motivation Science

Learn how to guide clients beyond workouts by understanding the psychology of motivation and sustainable habit formation. Study behavior change theory, adherence strategies, accountability systems, and communication techniques that build trust and long term results.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Career Opportunities with an Online Bachelor's Degree

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Job Ready Skills

Skills learned in this program include:

  • Professional Standards and Ethics

  • Data and Information Management

  • Program Quality and Management

  • Leadership and Coaching

  • Fitness Business  Management

 

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Career Opportunities

Our B.S. EXSC Can Prepare You to Be:

  • Strength and Conditioning Coach

  • Clinical Exercise Physiologist
  • Corporate Wellness Director
  • Sports Performance Director
  • Performance Facility Owner
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Work Environments

From Elite Sport to Corporate Wellness:

  • Professional Sports Teams

  • Military Base Performance Centers
  • Olympic/National Governing Bodies
  • Clinical and Rehabilitation Centers
  • Combat Sports and Performance

Is a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science Right for You?

Take our 3-minute Exercise Science Readiness Quiz and get a personalized report on your strengths, interests, and potential career fit.

Take the 3-Minute Readiness Quiz

Expert Faculty

Learn From Leaders in Exercise Science

At Lionel University, our faculty aren’t just educators — they’re pioneers, practitioners, and mentors. Each one brings real-world experience from the fields of exercise science, fitness, performance, recovery, and wellness directly into the online classroom.

Instructors scored 4.6–4.8 out of 5 on average across all categories

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Martin Rooney

Chancellor

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Bob Rollins

Chief Academic Officer

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Dr. Erin Nitschke

Dean of Academic Innovation & Graduate Studies

“OUR FACULTY DON’T JUST TEACH. STUDENTS CONSISTENTLY REPORT THAT THEY DELIVER.”

96%
Of Students Report Being Satisfied With Their Studies At Lionel University.
95%
Would Recommend Their Course To a Friend Or Family Member
96%
Students Say They Feel Respected By Their Instructors
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CAREER OUTLOOK

Career Outlook with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment across exercise science and fitness related occupations is projected to grow faster than average between 2024 and 2034, as organizations increasingly prioritize prevention, performance, and long term health.

INDUSTRY GROWTH

Why This Career Is Growing

Growing Demand for Preventive Health

Healthcare is shifting from treatment to prevention, recovery, and longevity. Increasing demand for exercise science professionals who improve performance and reduce chronic disease risk.

Expansion of Performance & Sports Careers

Professional sports teams, Olympic programs, tactical units, and elite performance centers are investing heavily in strength and conditioning specialists and sports scientists.

Corporate & Community Wellness Growth

Companies, schools, and municipalities are prioritizing employee wellness, injury prevention, and performance optimization. Creating new leadership roles in fitness and wellness management.

Growing older adult population needing individualized help

An aging population and rising lifestyle-related conditions are driving demand for qualified professionals trained in exercise physiology, behavior change, and long-term health programming.

Is a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science Right for You?

Take our 3-minute Exercise Science Readiness Quiz and get a personalized report on your strengths, interests, and potential career fit.

Take the 3-Minute Readiness Quiz

Recognition

A University Education You Can Trust

Lionel University is recognized by respected accrediting and industry organizations.

Accreditation Disclosure

Lionel University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), a recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education. See accreditation & disclosures

Note: Industry partners and recognitions shown do not imply endorsement of outcomes, employment, or licensure.

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Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission

Lionel University has been fully accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission since 2009, ensuring high quality, flexible education for online learners nationwide.

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Proud to Serve Those Who Serve

Lionel University is honored to support military-connected students with flexible, career-focused education designed for those who serve and their families.

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Recognized by the Health and Fitness Association

Our Certified Personal Trainer credential is recognized by the Health and Fitness Association, affirming alignment with national standards for fitness education.

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Recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association

Lionel University is designated as an Educational Recognition Program institution by the NSCA, a global leader in strength and conditioning standards.

COSTS AND FEES

Undergraduate Program Costs

Review the current undergraduate tuition rate and required fees for Lionel University students.

Undergraduate Credits

Students residing in the U.S., regardless of citizenship, and U.S. citizens residing abroad.

$333 / credit

International Students

Undergraduate tuition for international students.

$440 / credit

Additional Costs & Fees

Certificate Fee

Paid per certification.

$199

Technology Fee

Paid once per quarter.

$45

Wellness Fee

Paid once per quarter.

$25

Textbook Costs

Digital textbooks are embedded into each course at no additional cost. Unrestricted access is available seven days prior to the start of class and throughout the quarter.

$0

Admissions & Registration Fees

Apply at any time at no cost.

$0

Transfer Credit Evaluation

Our staff will review your transfer documentation at no cost.

$0

Partners

Industry Partners That Support Student Success

We work with organizations across the fitness, wellness, and performance industries to create opportunities that help students grow professionally and prepare for long-term career success.

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Transfer More. Finish Faster.

Transfer Up to 70% of Your Bachelor’s Degree

You may be able to transfer up to 70 percent of your bachelor’s degree through eligible college coursework, industry certifications, military training, or professional experience.

You may be able to transfer:

Previously completed college coursework

Industry certifications and credentials

Military training and Joint Service Transcripts

Relevant professional or technical education

Is a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science Right for You?

Take our 3-minute Exercise Science Readiness Quiz and get a personalized report on your strengths, interests, and potential career fit.

Take the 3-Minute Readiness Quiz

Course Curriculum

Review Course Curriculum & Credits

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science is a 180-quarter-credit degree designed to build a strong foundation in exercise science, human performance, coaching, and professional practice.

36

Credits of Core Degree Coursework

48

General Education

36

Bachelor's Degree Concentration

60

Exercise Science Core Courses

Core Courses - 36 Credits

Bachelor's Degree Coursework

Build the scientific, assessment, coaching, and professional foundations needed for advanced study in exercise science and human performance.

XSCI110   From Physical Culture to Exercise Science: History and Evolution of the Profession 4 Credits

This course develops an advanced understanding of the progression from physical culture to exercise science with a focus on improving human performance, movement efficiency, and training outcomes. Students apply scientific principles to design and implement effective performance strategies.

XSCI130   Functional Anatomy and Physiology 4 Credits

This course provides foundational knowledge in functional anatomy and physiology, helping students understand key scientific principles that support health and human performance.

XSCI240   Applied Biomechanics and Movement Analysis 4 Credits

This course develops an advanced understanding of applied biomechanics and movement analysis with a focus on improving human performance, movement efficiency, and training outcomes. Students apply scientific principles to design and implement effective performance strategies.

XSCI242   Training Principles and Program Design 4 Credits

This course develops essential skills through training principles and program design, supporting academic success and professional readiness across disciplines.

XSCI243   Movement and Performance Assessment Methods: Administration, Scoring, and Reporting 4 Credits

This course develops an advanced understanding of movement and performance assessment methods with a focus on improving human performance, movement efficiency, and training outcomes. Students apply scientific principles to design and implement effective performance strategies.

NTR243   Cellular Nutrition: Micronutrients, Hydration, and Supplementation 4 Credits

Description pending.

XSCI245   Exercise Programming for Special Populations: Metabolic, Cardiovascular, Orthopedic, and Aging Considerations 4 Credits

This course develops an advanced understanding of exercise programming for special populations with a focus on improving human performance, movement efficiency, and training outcomes. Students apply scientific principles to design and implement effective performance strategies.

XSCI246   The Science of Behavior Change: Motivation, Adherence, and Coaching Communication 4 Credits

This course develops coaching and communication strategies through the science of behavior change, focusing on behavior change, client engagement, motivation, adherence, and long-term success.

XSCI248   Client Acquisition and Practice Development in Health and Performance 4 Credits

This course develops an advanced understanding of client acquisition and practice development in health and performance. Students develop professional skills that support client engagement, service delivery, and sustainable professional practice.

GENERAL EDUCATION - 48 Credits

General Education

Develop the scientific, quantitative, communication, social science, and critical-thinking skills needed for success in Exercise Science and related professional environments.

BIO105   Anatomy and Physiology 5 Credits

This course covers principles related to anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, client assessment, exercise program design, general nutrition principles, motivation, special populations, and injury prevention.

BIO105L   Anatomy and Physiology Lab 3 Credits

Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab is a study of the cells, tissues, and organ systems of the human body. Students examine the anatomy and basic functions of major organ systems, including the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.

ENG110   English Composition 5 Credits

Students develop the writing process by learning to plan, draft, revise, and polish clear and professional written communication. The course builds writing skills applicable to academic, business, and coaching environments.

HIST102   U.S. History 5 Credits

Students study the social, political, and economic forces that shaped the United States from its early beginnings through the Civil War while developing historical perspective applicable to contemporary society and leadership.

MATH102   College Math 5 Credits

Students build practical mathematical skills through ratios, percentages, measurements, and solving for unknowns in real-world situations relevant to health, fitness, business, and everyday decision-making.

PSY102   General Psychology 5 Credits

Students explore how people think and behave while learning psychological principles applicable to leadership, communication, coaching, motivation, and everyday life.

SOC101   Introduction to Sociology 5 Credits

Students examine how society shapes behavior through topics including culture, inequality, family, social institutions, and social change. The course develops understanding of how individuals and communities interact within diverse social environments.

MATH303   Statistics 5 Credits

This course includes data presentation and summarization, introductory probability concepts and distributions, statistical inference, estimation, hypothesis testing, comparison of populations, correlation, and regression.

HIST303   History of Sport 5 Credits

This course examines the history of American sport from its colonial beginnings through its development into a major cultural and economic institution. Students explore how sport has reflected and influenced political, economic, and cultural developments while examining issues related to race, gender, class, and nationalism.

CHEM303   Introduction to Chemistry 5 Credits

This course provides an overview of general, organic, and biological chemistry. Students develop key chemistry and quantitative skills while examining scientific concepts relevant to health and human performance, including the chemical structures and functions of carbohydrates, proteins, and other biological compounds.

DEGREE CONCENTRATIONS — 36 CREDITS

Choose Your Exercise Science Concentration

Select a concentration aligned with your professional goals. 

Strength and Conditioning 36 Credits
XSCI257   Performance Training for Groups and Teams 5 Credits

This course examines the scientific principles and applied methodologies required to design and lead structured performance training for groups and teams. Students explore musculoskeletal and physiological foundations, biomechanics, energy systems, and training adaptations within collective training environments. Emphasis is placed on group assessment strategies, periodization, exercise scaling and modification, safety management, equipment utilization, and session structure across cardiovascular, strength, and conditioning formats.

XSCI255   Performance Enhancement and Training Science 5 Credits

This course examines the scientific principles and applied methodologies of performance enhancement for athletic populations. Students explore neuromuscular physiology, biomechanics, bioenergetics, performance assessment, resistance training systems, power development, and periodization models. Emphasis is placed on sport-specific program design, seasonal training adaptation, recovery strategies, injury prevention, performance nutrition, supplementation science, and sport psychology principles.

XSCI274   Coaching Greatness: Leadership, Culture, and High-Performance Development 3 Credits

This course examines leadership development and high-performance coaching principles within exercise and human performance environments. Students explore identity formation, emotional intelligence, communication strategies, culture-building practices, professional standards, and the interpersonal skills that define effective leadership.

PD101   Train to Win: The ROAR Class 4 Credits

This course introduces students to Lionel University and prepares them for academic, personal, and professional success in Exercise Science and Human Performance. Using the Train to Win framework, students engage in structured self-reflection, skill development, and leadership application through the ROAR model: Reflect, Own, Align, and Rise.

PD103   Professional and Career Development 4 Credits

This course prepares students to take the first and next steps in their careers. Students explore career opportunities, develop a professional resume and cover letter, create an effective elevator pitch, and build interviewing and professional-readiness skills.

XSCI258   Movement Dysfunction and Corrective Strategies 5 Credits

This course examines evidence-based corrective strategies designed to address movement dysfunction and restore performance capacity. Students explore skeletal, muscular, and neuromuscular system interactions associated with faulty movement patterns, joint instability, soft-tissue restrictions, and motor-control deficits. Emphasis is placed on movement analysis, stability and mobility integration, functional assessment, corrective programming, and professional scope of practice.

XSCI277   Obstacle Course and Tactical Performance Training 5 Credits

This course examines performance-development strategies specific to obstacle course racing and tactical-style endurance events. Students analyze metabolic demands, movement patterns, grip-strength development, load carriage, climbing mechanics, and hybrid strength-endurance integration. Emphasis is placed on needs analysis, acute-variable manipulation, seasonal preparation, hydration and fueling strategies, psychological resilience, and integrated strength, endurance, mobility, and mental-preparedness programming.

XSCI367   Hypertrophy Science and Physique Development 5 Credits

This course provides an in-depth scientific and practical exploration of the art and science of bodybuilding and physique development. Topics include advanced applied anatomy, hypertrophy physiology, biomechanics, nutrition for cutting and bulking, endocrine regulation, posing, peaking strategies, physique assessment, recovery modalities, injury risk factors, and competition preparation.

Fitness Leadership and Management 36 Credits
COMM161   Business Communications 5 Credits

This course explores the principles and techniques of effective written business communication. Stu-dents will discuss, critique, and practice business writing strategies to produce good-news messages, bad-news messages, persuasive messages, reports, proposals and presentations, while developing critical thinking, researching and interviewing skills. Business communication in a global business environment is also emphasized.

XSCI280   Exercise Facility Administration and Leadership 5 Credits

This course examines leadership theory and administrative principles within exercise, sport, and performance facility environments. Students explore organizational leadership models, emotional intelligence, strategic vision development, culture-building practices, operational decision-making, change management, diversity and inclusion, and professional development systems. Emphasis is placed on applying leadership frameworks to sports and fitness organizations to promote performance excellence, ethical practice, and sustainable organizational growth.

COMM203   Customer Service Principles 3 Credits

This course focuses on the professional communication and service skills needed to improve member experience and retention in health clubs, fitness facilities, wellness centers, and performance environments. Students examine active listening, professional presence, behavioral style awareness, inclusive communication, service recovery, and consistent follow-through while exploring how customer experience influences trust, engagement, loyalty, belonging, and referrals.

PD101   Train to Win: The ROAR Class 4 Credits

This course introduces students to Lionel University and prepares them for academic, personal, and professional success through structured reflection, personal ownership, alignment, leadership, and professional development.

PD103   Professional and Career Development 4 Credits

Students develop career-readiness skills including professional resumes, cover letters, interviewing, career exploration, and professional communication.

XSCI372   Contemporary Issues in Fitness 5 Credits

This course examines current issues in modern sport and fitness. Students explore opportunities within the sports and fitness management sector, develop management skills applicable across industry settings, and examine major challenges affecting different segments of the sports industry.

BUS117   Motivating for Performance 5 Credits

This course introduces key concepts related to the behaviors managers need to motivate people to perform. Students examine goal setting, performance rewards, individual beliefs and needs, fair performance assessment, employee motivation, and factors that contribute to workforce satisfaction and performance.

COMM102   Effective Communication 5 Credits

Communication skills are developed through the use of effective listening, speaking, and writing skills. The student will develop the ability to speak clearly and effectively by learning to plan, compose and deliver ideas. Emphasis is on the global, ethical, technological, and customer service aspects of communication.

Personal Training 36 Credits
XSCI258   Movement Dysfunction and Corrective Strategies 5 Credits

This course examines evidence-based corrective strategies designed to address movement dysfunction and restore performance capacity. Students explore skeletal, muscular, and neuromuscular system interactions as they relate to faulty movement patterns, joint instability, soft-tissue restrictions, and motor-control deficits. Emphasis is placed on movement analysis, stability and mobility integration, functional assessment, corrective exercise programming, and professional scope of practice.

XSCI257   Performance Training for Groups and Teams 5 Credits

This course examines the scientific principles and applied methodologies required to design and lead structured performance training for groups and teams. Students explore biomechanics, energy systems, training adaptations, group assessment strategies, program design, exercise modification, safety management, and professional leadership within group-based performance settings.

XSCI274   Coaching Greatness: Leadership, Culture, and High-Performance Development 3 Credits

This course examines leadership development and high-performance coaching principles within exercise and human performance environments. Students develop communication, emotional intelligence, culture-building, identity, and leadership skills applicable to individual and group coaching.

PD101   Train to Win: The ROAR Class 4 Credits

Students develop academic, personal, and professional skills through the Train to Win framework and the ROAR model: Reflect, Own, Align, and Rise.

PD103   Professional and Career Development 4 Credits

Students develop career-readiness skills through career exploration, resume and cover-letter development, interviewing preparation, professional communication, and personal branding.

HSCI253  
Communication and Connection in Coaching 5 Credits

This course examines communication and relationship-building as essential components of effective coaching. Students develop strategies for active listening, effective questioning, client-centered communication, and building trust and rapport. Emphasis is placed on understanding individual motivations, strengthening client engagement, navigating communication challenges, and creating supportive coaching relationships that encourage meaningful and sustainable change.

XSCI273   Evidence-Based Supplementation Strategies 5 Credits

Description coming soon.

XSCI367   Hypertrophy Science and Physique Development 5 Credits

Description coming soon.

Wellness 36 Credits
XSCI369   Respiratory Physiology and Performance Breathing Strategies 5 Credits

Description coming soon.

HSCI255   Applied Coaching for Behavior Change and Client Outcomes 5 Credits

This advanced course focuses on the application of coaching frameworks to facilitate sustainable behavior change and improve client outcomes. Students integrate assessment, communication, and behavior-change strategies to design and implement personalized coaching interventions. Emphasis is placed on promoting client autonomy, enhancing motivation, and supporting long-term adherence in health and performance settings.

HSCI254   Integrated Client Assessment and Behavior Strategy Design 3 Credits

This course prepares students to assess clients holistically by examining behavioral, environmental, and lifestyle factors that influence health and performance. Students learn to identify root causes of client challenges, analyze patterns in behavior and decision-making, and synthesize findings into actionable, evidence-based coaching strategies. Emphasis is placed on integrating assessment data to design personalized interventions that support sustainable behavior change.

PD101   Train to Win: The ROAR Class 4 Credits

Students develop academic, personal, leadership, and professional skills through the ROAR framework: Reflect, Own, Align, and Rise.

PD103   Professional and Career Development 4 Credits

Students prepare for professional opportunities through career exploration, resume and cover-letter development, interviewing skills, professional communication, and career planning.

NUT244   Nutrition in Context 5 Credits

This course explores nutrition in context: diets, culture, and critical analysis and its impact on health, performance, and recovery. Students apply nutrition science to support real-world coaching and sustainable client outcomes.

HSCI251   Foundations of Coaching Identity and Professional Practice 5 Credits

This course introduces the foundational principles of effective coaching practice, with an emphasis on developing a professional coaching identity and approach. Students explore coaching methodologies, professional standards, ethical practice, and strategies for supporting client development and behavior change. The course prepares students to establish a purposeful and professional approach to coaching within health, fitness, wellness, and exercise-related settings.

XSCI273   Evidence-Based Supplementation Strategies 5 Credits

Description pending.

Exercise Science CORE - 60 Credits

Exercise Science Core Courses

Advanced coursework builds deeper competency in rehabilitation, lifespan performance, nutrition and metabolism, psychology, communication, kinesiology, biomechanics, exercise physiology, research, and professional application.

XSCI253   Continuum of Care and Return-to-Performance Principles 5 Credits

This course examines foundational and applied principles of therapeutic exercise within the continuum of musculoskeletal rehabilitation and return-to-performance models. Students explore tissue healing physiology, clinical assessment techniques, therapeutic exercise progressions, neuromotor control development, and functional reintegration strategies. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based decision-making, movement analysis, corrective programming, and professional scope of practice.

XSCI254   Youth Athletic Development 5 Credits

This course examines physiological growth, maturation, and long-term athletic development principles as they relate to children and adolescents. Students explore pediatric metabolism, musculoskeletal development, neuromuscular coordination, body composition assessment, and age-appropriate training adaptation. Emphasis is placed on motor skill acquisition, strength and endurance development, plyometric training, sport psychology, youth nutrition, injury prevention, and safe program design.

XSCI256   Exercise Programming for Aging and Longevity 5 Credits

This course provides an evidence-based examination of exercise programming for older adults grounded in aging physiology, functional health, and longevity. Students examine age-related changes across cardiovascular, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, endocrine, neurological, and metabolic systems and apply appropriate assessment and screening strategies. Emphasis is placed on supporting functional independence, chronic disease management, fall prevention, and quality of life.

XSCI259   Advanced Nutrition and Metabolism for Human Performance 5 Credits

This course provides an advanced, evidence-based examination of nutrition science and metabolic physiology as they relate to human performance, exercise adaptation, and body composition management. Students explore digestion and nutrient metabolism, macronutrients, micronutrients, nutrient timing, hydration and electrolytes, supplementation science, body composition, and nutrition for special populations.

XSCI261   Advanced Behavior Change Psychology 5 Credits

This course examines advanced psychological theories and applied behavior-change strategies within exercise and human performance environments. Students explore the Transtheoretical Model of Change, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Social Cognitive Theory, commitment strategies, readiness for change, intrinsic motivation, and structured transformation frameworks.

XSCI272   Presenting Greatness 5 Credits

This course examines advanced public speaking and leadership communication strategies within performance, educational, and professional environments. Students develop skills in message construction, audience analysis, storytelling, delivery mechanics, rehearsal methodology, feedback integration, persuasive communication, stage presence, and professional confidence.

XSCI371   Principles of Kinesiology 5 Credits

Students develop familiarity with the vocabulary and foundational principles of human anatomy and movement. The course examines how the nervous, circulatory, pulmonary, skeletal, and muscular systems contribute to movement and physical activity while helping students develop the ability to identify and address movement-related problems.

XSCI298   Inclusive Human Performance and Adaptive Training 5 Credits

This course prepares students to design and implement exercise programs for individuals with diverse needs, including those with injuries, chronic conditions, physical limitations, and varying levels of ability. Students examine adaptive training, inclusive coaching, individualized program design, movement modification, safety, and strategies for maintaining performance outcomes while addressing individual needs.

XSCI376   Research Methods 5 Credits

This course covers the application of evidence-based practice in exercise science. Students learn about the important characteristics of evidence-based practice, the origins of evidence-based practice, and the practical application of evidence-based practice in exercise science. Topics covered include sources of evidence, reading and interpreting research evidence, developing a question, searching for evidence, evaluating evidence, incorporating evidence into practice, confirming evidence in the individual, and reevaluating evidence.

XSCI481   Principles of Biomechanics 5 Credits

Students learn fundamental principles of biomechanics and their application to sport and human performance. Topics include kinetics, kinematics, forces, movement analysis, anatomical terminology, and the identification and correction of performance errors. Students apply biomechanical concepts to movement of the athlete, implements, opposition, and movement through fluid.

XSCI482   Physiology of Exercise 5 Credits

Students develop an understanding of physiological responses and adaptations to exercise and learn how to evaluate progress toward fitness and performance goals. The course prepares students to apply exercise physiology principles when working with diverse individuals and performance needs.

XSCI498   Capstone in Exercise Science 5 Credits

Students complete a culminating research project integrating theories, research methods, analytical skills, and substantive knowledge gained throughout the undergraduate Exercise Science curriculum. Research may incorporate principles of exercise and training, exercise techniques, program design and prescription, and testing and assessment of fitness, health, wellness, and human performance.

Is a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science Right for You?

Take our 3-minute Exercise Science Readiness Quiz and get a personalized report on your strengths, interests, and potential career fit.

Take the 3-Minute Readiness Quiz

Career Services

Career Support From Day One and for Life

From enrollment through graduation and beyond, Lionel University students receive lifetime access to career coaching, professional development tools, and resources designed to help them achieve their goals.

Personalized career coaching

Resume and LinkedIn support

Job search tools and resources

Professional development guidance

Lifetime access at no additional cost

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Frequently asked questions

How long does the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science take?

The program requires 180 quarter credits and typically takes 4–5 years to complete. Transfer credits may reduce your time to graduation.

Is the program fully online?

Yes. Courses are 100 percent online with 24/7 access and 5–10 week course formats designed for working adults.

Can I transfer credits into the program?

Yes. You may transfer up to 70% of eligible college coursework, certifications, or military training. Approved credits can significantly shorten your path to completion.

Is the program FAFSA eligible?

Yes. Eligible students may apply for federal financial aid by completing the FAFSA and exploring available grants and loan programs.

Are military benefits accepted?

Yes. Lionel University supports military affiliated students and accepts eligible military education benefits, including evaluation of Joint Service Transcripts.

Does Lionel offer career services?

Yes. Through Career Connect, students receive lifetime access to career coaching, professional development tools, and job search resources at no additional cost.

Is Lionel University Accredited?

Yes.  Lionel University is proud to be accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. DEAC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

How Do I Apply?

Applying to Lionel University is simple. There is no application fee and no test scores are required for admission.

Start your application today