Exercise Physiology Major

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology at Saint Joseph’s University is designed to equip students with a deep and comprehensive understanding of how the human body responds and adapts to physical activity, exercise, and sports. This thorough program combines foundational knowledge in physiology, fitness, health, psychology and behavior management with practical skills in communication, leadership, planning, and organizational development. Students gain a holistic view of health and the multidimensional aspects of physical fitness, preparing them to design and implement programs that promote healthy lifestyles across diverse populations, ranging anywhere from the chronically ill to the elite athlete.

Program Features:

• Hands-On Learning: Students engage in practical learning experiences through required hands-on laboratory courses, internships, and research opportunities, utilizing cutting-edge equipment and technology in state-of-the-art health and fitness facilities.
• Flexible Curriculum: The program offers both a traditional four-year curriculum and a three-year accelerated, direct-entry track to Physical Therapy, along with specialty electives tailored to students interests or career goals.
• Certification Opportunities: Before graduation, students have the chance to earn certifications in up to six areas, including exercise physiologist, sports nutritionist, performance and sport scientist, personal training, special populations specialist and strength and conditioning specialist, enhancing their employability and expertise.
• Career and Graduate Pathways: Graduates are well-prepared for immediate entry into the health and fitness industry or for advanced studies in exercise physiology, athletic training, chiropractic, sports nutrition and more, thanks to thorough and well-rounded education and strong access to a robust network of local career opportunities in and around the Philadelphia region.

Educational Philosophy: At the core of our Exercise Physiology program is the commitment to instill a passion for learning and an understanding of the fundamental role of physical activity in preventing chronic diseases, treating acute injuries, and maximizing human performance. Our approach is designed to prepare students for success in a variety of health-related careers, encouraging them to follow their passions and tailor their education to forge a unique personal and professional identity.

Career Outcomes: Graduates of the Exercise Physiology program are equipped for diverse roles in the health and fitness industry, including positions in corporate fitness, strength and conditioning, adaptive fitness coaching, surgical neurophysiology, health and physical education, and beyond. With a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of exercise science, our graduates are ready to make significant contributions to health and fitness service delivery, wellness, disease prevention and health promotion, embodying professional behavior and a critical understanding of the health and fitness services, public health initiatives, and societal health challenges as they relate to both improved healthspan and lifespan.

The SJU Exercise Physiology program is a National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognized Program (ERP), which is an approved and standardized curricula designed to prepare students for the NSCA-Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certifications.