Arnold School of Public Health

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A Flexible Health Science Major

This major is a strong choice for students who like science, care about health and want a degree that can prepare them for graduate school, professional school or careers helping people move, perform and live healthier lives. If you want a future in health, movement, medicine, rehabilitation, performance or wellness, our program will give you a strong science foundation while allowing you to explore many possible career paths. 

In exercise science, you’ll learn how physical activity affects the body across the lifespan, and study how movement, fitness, performance, nutrition, behavior and health are connected. You’ll also learn how exercise can help prevent chronic disease, support rehabilitation and improve quality of life for all. USC’s program includes opportunities for practicum experiences, research with faculty and professional advising to help students move toward their goals.  

10 Reasons to Study Exercise Science 

1. You can prepare for many different health, wellness, rehabilitation and performance careers. 
2. You can build a strong foundation for physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, medical school, physician associate programs or other health-related graduate programs. 
3. You can study real issues like injury prevention, chronic disease, movement, fitness, aging, rehabilitation, sport performance and health behavior. 
4. You can learn how the body works through courses in anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics and psychology of physical activity. 
5. You can gain practical skills in exercise testing, physical fitness assessment, disease risk factor screening 10 Reasons to Study Exercise Scienceand exercise prescription.  
6. You can explore career paths in clinics, hospitals, fitness and wellness settings, sports performance, research, rehabilitation and community health. 
7. You can participate in practicum opportunities and experiential learning outside the classroom.  
8. You can participate in research conducted by Exercise Science faculty.  
9. You can keep your career options open while building a strong science-based health degree. 
10. You can turn your interest in the human body, movement and helping people into a meaningful career. .
    

• Information Sessions

  Join a prospective student information session to learn more about the B.S. in Exercise Science at USC and ask questions from program faculty and advisors.

• Campus Tours

  There’s so much more to an Exercise Science degree at USC. Join us on our 400+ acre campus and see for yourself!