We CU Innovating at Centenary University!
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
Study human movement and performance while preparing for careers in fitness, rehabilitation support, or graduate health programs.
Do you love fitness, sports, wellness, or helping people improve their health?
Exercise Science gives you the scientific knowledge and hands-on experience to turn that passion into a real career!
A BS in Exercise Science at Centenary University provides students with an in-depth knowledge of physiology, exercise and human performance in the advancement of wellness education and healthy lifestyles. The study of Exercise Science consists of several overlapping disciplines, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, growth and development, exercise nutrition, measurement and evaluation.
Our students learn how the body moves, performs, recovers, and adapts — then they learn how to apply that knowledge in real-world settings.
In the Classroom, In the Lab, On the Field, On the Job…
The program of study is designed to blend classroom instruction with practical experiential learning, and to prepare graduates for careers in clinical, corporate or community-based exercise/wellness programs. Graduates of this program will have completed the minimum prerequisites for most advanced degree programs in physical therapy and athletic training.
An exercise science-related internship is required for graduation and will provide an opportunity to increase the student’s practical skill set.
Top 3 Reasons to Choose Centenary
You Get Hands-On Learning from Day One
Students gain practical experience through labs, internships, fitness assessment, and applied exercise programming designed to build career-ready skills.
You Build a Strong Foundation for Graduate Health Programs
The curriculum is intentionally structured to align with prerequisites for many Physical Therapy, Athletic Training, and allied health graduate programs.
We are Science-Based, Career-Focused, and Student-Centered.
Centenary’s Exercise Science program blends scientific knowledge, experiential learning, and individualized support to help students achieve professional and academic goals.
Be Ready for Certification!
The BS in Exercise Science degree also provides students with the skills and experiential learning to take a certification exam and begin a career in health and wellness, fitness and training. Students graduating from the exercise science program are eligible to apply for certification as a fitness trainer (personal trainer), performance enhancement specialist, strength and conditioning coach, and exercise physiologist.
Want to Pursue Advanced Credentials?
The proposed course sequence is specifically designed to serve as the foundational degree to meet the application requirements for multiple advanced degrees, including Master of Athletic Training program and Doctor of Physical Therapy programs.
Students in this program will complete a training course and receive a First Aid and CPR/AED certification.
Your Future
Academic Advancement:
Next steps include DPT, MS in Exercise Science, athletic training, occupational therapy, physician assistant, public health, ACSM/NSCA certifications, or strength and conditioning credentials.
Career Pathways:
Personal Trainer, Physical Therapist (with further education), Wellness Coordinator
Industry Outlook:
Fast growth as health and fitness awareness increases, along with demand for rehabilitation services.
Regional employers include
Atlantic Health System; RWJ; Barnabas Health; Hackensack Meridian Health; Kessler Rehabilitation Center; JAG Physical Therapy; Ivy Rehab; Select Physical Therapy; Crunch Fitness; Life Time; New Jersey Devils / Prudential Center.
Salary Outlook:
$45,000 – $70,000
Getting Started
For New Jersey entry-level roles aligned to BS in Exercise Science, a reasonable starting range is approximately $38,000–$55,000, depending on role, licensure/certification, employer type, and prior experience.
Early Career and Progression
Approx. $62,000 midpoint at about five years, with higher earnings in specialized, licensed, technical, supervisory, or high-demand settings.
Approx. $80,000 – $100,000 average or attainable mid-career benchmark around ten years, especially for advanced credentials, management responsibility, or specialized practice. Greater earning are common among some private practice areas.
*Salary and Outlook Data