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University of Pittsburgh    
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
 
  Jul 10, 2026
 
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog

Exercise Science, BS


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The Bachelor of Science (BS) program in Exercise Science offers students rigorous training in the application of exercise science for prevention and treatment of chronic diseases and conditions, human performance, and health and well-being. The B.S. in Exercise Science is focused on training students to prepare for health-fitness and clinical careers related to exercise science. Specifically, this degree program prepares students for careers in 1) health, fitness, or performance benefits of exercise and physical activity; 2) Health-related careers related to exercise (cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, etc). This program also prepares students for admission to physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, or other health-related graduate programs, and admission to graduate training in exercise science, exercise physiology, public health, or a related field.

Students have the option to choose the Strength & Conditioning track that prepares them for the National Strength & Conditioning Association professional certification (Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialst (CSCS)) exam and which also prepares students for careers in strength & conditioning and human performance.

Admissions Requirements


  • Minimum GPA of 2.5
  • Current official transcript with a minimum of 48 credits earned
  • It is preferred that applicants have completed  three courses with a grade of C or higher at the time of application in the following areas: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology

Associated Accreditations


The BS in Exercise Science degree is fully accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This national accreditation - considered the gold standard in the industry - is based on a rigorous review of our curriculum, faculty, facilities, and more.

Upon graduation, students will be eligible for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP) exam which prepares students for exercise physiologist-related careers in corporate, wellness, clinical or athletic settings. 

General Education Requirements (42 Credits)


The Exercise Science program uses the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences General Education Requirement attributes. Students choose DSAS approved courses with the appropriate attribute to fulfill the following requirements.

*Courses indicated with an asterisk are specific requirements for the major

Writing (6 credits)


  • Seminar in Composition
  • Writing-Intensive (“W” course) 

Quantitative Reasoning (6 credits)


Humanities (12 credits)


  • Literature
  • Arts
  • Creative Work  (suggested course in Public Speaking)
  • Philosophical Thinking or Ethics

History, Social Science & Global Awareness/Cultural Understanding (9 credits)


  • Social Science
  • Historical Analysis
  • Global Awareness and Cultural Understanding
    • Choose one course in Global Issues, Specific Geographic Region, or Cross-Cultural Awareness

Natural Science (9 credits)


Students are advised to select courses from the Natural Sciences courses that are required by the major to satisfy this general education requirement.   

Suggested courses options:

 

Exercise Science Requirements (74 credits)


Behavioral & Sociocultural Foundations (3 credits)


Research Methods (3 credits)


Natural Sciences (30 credits; 9 credits can be used toward General Education)


Total Credits : 120


Graduation Requirements


  • 2.0 cumulative GPA
  • Completion of all required coursework
    • A grade of C- or higher is required in all HHD courses
  • Completion of a clinical internship (HHD 1996 or HHD 1981/1982 for Strength & Conditioning Students)

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