Bachelors
Kinesiology & Exercise Science
A Kinesiology and Exercise Science (KES) degree prepares students to understand human movement, improve performance, and support health across the lifespan. Students gain hands-on experience and the knowledge to pursue careers in health, fitness, and rehabilitation.
Dig Deeper Into the program
Explore coursework, lab experiences, and career pathways that prepare you for roles in exercise science, rehabilitation, and human performance.
Degrees Offered
- Bachelor’s
Start Terms
- Fall or Spring
Program Format
- On-campus
- Select classes available online to provide added flexibility for students
Credit Hours & Timeline
- Total credits required: 120
- Typical completion time: 4 years
Build a strong foundation in movement, health and performance. The Kinesiology & Exercise Science curriculum combines science and hands-on learning to prepare you for careers in fitness, healthcare or advanced study.
- Pathways to careers in fitness, rehabilitation or healthcare
- Coursework in anatomy, physiology and exercise science
- Hands-on lab and applied learning experiences
- Study of human movement, performance and wellness
- Preparation for certifications or graduate programs
Undergraduate Admission Criteria
Applicants for admission are evaluated based on the following criteria to gain full admission.
- High school record of cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. An applicant for a degree program must have graduated or will have graduated with 16 high school units from an accredited high school. The college preparatory program is strongly recommended to high school students. Ordinarily this program includes four years of English and two years of social studies, science, and mathematics.
- College/university record of cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, if applicable.
Applicants who do not meet the following criteria and show potential for success may be reviewed for an alternate admissions pathway.
Students who have successfully completed the General Education Development Test (GED) and have not accumulated at least 12 collegiate level semester hours credit at a regionally accredited institution with a 2.5 GPA or better will follow the Alternate Admissions Pathway.
Applications open July 1 for the upcoming academic year. CSM follows a rolling admission process, reviewing applications as they are received. We encourage students to apply early for priority consideration for scholarships, housing, and financial aid.
The Mercy Core is CSM’s general education curriculum and the foundation of every undergraduate degree. Rooted in the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy, it integrates ethics, reflection, and action to prepare women to lead with purpose and advance justice in their communities.
Tuition & Aid
Investing in your education is a big decision, and you do not have to navigate it alone. Every admitted full-time undergraduate student is guaranteed a merit scholarship, and CSM offers additional aid and personalized guidance to make your degree attainable. Our team will walk you through your options so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Your Roadmap to Admission
From application to enrollment, we guide you through each step with clarity and personal support so you can focus on what matters most and take the next step toward your future.
Why Choose CSM?
Hands-On, Experiential Learning
Gain real-world experience through labs, training environments, and applied coursework.
Career-Focused Preparation
Build skills aligned with careers in fitness, rehabilitation, and performance.
Supportive, Student-Centered Environment
Learn in small classes with faculty who provide mentorship and individualized support.
My core KES classes, along with having hands-on research experience, provided a solid foundation for becoming a physical therapist.
Kaylie Ratzlaff, KES & Doctor of
Physical Therapy
Exercise Science Career Outlook
Careers in kinesiology and exercise science continue to grow as demand increases for health, wellness, and performance professionals.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of exercise physiologists is projected to grow 10% through 2032, faster than average. These roles offer opportunities in clinical, fitness, and rehabilitation settings, supporting long-term career stability and impact.
KES Fast Facts
Graduate-rEady
Advanced Study Pathways
Strong foundation for PT, OT and other healthcare graduate programs.
4+ Core Areas
Focused Coursework
Study physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and performance.
1:1 Support
Personalized Advising
Work with faculty to build a clear path into your area of interest.
Our Students In Action
Accreditation
The Assurance of Accreditation
The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society. College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
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Wherever you’re starting from, we’ll help you build a future with confidence.