B.S. Kinesiology, Exercise Science

Your pathway to graduate school starts here

Interested in becoming a doctor, chiropractor, physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician assistant, or another clinical field but aren’t sure which undergraduate path can get you there? This is the program for you! The science-based courses and study of the human body are the perfect path to prepare you for graduate and professional program entry. 

Maybe clinical health practice isn't your goal, but becoming an athletic trainer, researcher, or specialist who works with the human body interests you. The exercise science major is a great choice.

Regardless of your goals, you'll develop knowledge of scientific concepts including human anatomy, physiology, muscle control, nutrition, motor development, and more—subjects that are essential for anyone planning to work long term in clinical practice or care.

You will graduate with a strong understanding of the complex network of systems that make up the human body, plus how they work together to do things like break down food for fuel, repair damaged tissues, experience growth and development, and move through the world safely at any level. You’ll also get hands-on experience that builds the practical skills graduate and professional programs look for in strong applicants. 

This path isn't intended to be your terminal degree. It's a step along the way to keep you moving along your professional career path preparation. 

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What types of jobs will this degree help prepare you for?

  • Athletic trainer
  • Cardiopulmonary rehab specialist
  • Clinical exercise physiologist
  • Corporate wellness and health
  • Clinical health practioner
  • Exercise physiologist
  • Occupational therapist
  • Physical therapist
  • Physician or physician assistant
  • Research assistant or fellow
  • Sports performance trainer
Madison Fry

I am glad I chose IU Indianapolis because it has given me a great opportunity to work in research. I have gained valuable research skills that will help me in my graduate school and professional journey.

Madison Fry, Exercise Science Student

$98 K annual median wage of occupational therapist in the U.S. (requires doctorate degree)

$101 Kannual median wage of physical therapist in the U.S. (requires doctorate degree)

What advanced-degree programs can you pursue?

Our exercise science graduates have applied their training to help solve the nation’s growing health issues, such as diabetes and obesity, as well as help patients rehab back from injuries or illnesses.

Due to the science-based curriculum, students like you advance into graduate or professional schools before becoming athletic trainers, chiropractors, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, physician assistants, physicians, and more.

Surveys of former exercise science program alumni indicate recent graduates have matriculated successfully into the following programs:

Physical Therapy Programs

  • IU in Indianapolis
  • Armstrong State University
  • Bellarmine University
  • Central Michigan University
  • Hampton University
  • Indiana State University
  • Rosalind Franklin University
  • University of Findlay
  • University of Michigan
  • University of South Florida
  • Washington University

Occupational Therapy Programs

  • IU in Indianapolis
  • Elmhurst College
  • Rush University

Master’s in Kinesiology Programs

  • IU in Indianapolis
  • Univeristy of Michigan
  • University of Minnesota

Other Graduate or Professional Studies

  • Applied Behavioral Analysis: Ball State University (master’s)
  • Athletic Training: Indiana State University
  • Cellular Physiology: IU in Indianapolis
  • Chiropractic: Palmer College of Chiropractic (D.C.)
  • Dentistry: IU in Indianapolis (D.D.S.)
  • Informatics: IU Bloomington
  • Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.)
    • Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
    • Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Medicine: IU School of Medicine (M.D.)
  • Optometry: IU Bloomington (O.D.)
  • Orthotics and Prosthetics: Northwestern University (master’s)
  • Physical Therapy Assistant: University of Indianapolis (master’s)
  • Physician Assistant Studies
    • Butler University
    • IU in Indianapolis