Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences: Wellness (B.S.) | Majors

Exercise and Wellness Introduction

The Exercise and Wellness emphasis within the Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences major focuses on the scientific study of how the body functions during physical activity, exercise, and human movement, with application to health promotion, fitness, and performance.

Students study muscular and skeletal anatomy, fuel utilization, the cellular basis of muscle contraction, neuromuscular physiology, and the neuromechanics of human movement. The curriculum emphasizes the role of exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle behaviors in improving physical performance, preventing chronic disease, and enhancing overall health.

Students learn to design and implement exercise programs, assess fitness and health behaviors, and promote sustainable wellness practices across diverse populations. This emphasis prepares graduates for careers in strength and conditioning, fitness and performance training, corporate and community wellness, and related fields, where improving quality of life and reducing disease risk are central goals.

Pick an Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Emphasis

As part of the Exercise and Rehabilitation program, you'll have the opportunity to select an area of emphasis. You can learn more about each emphasis below.

Bachelor's Degree

Exercise and Wellness Emphasis

March 25, 2026 04:29 PM

Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences is the scientific study of how the body functions during physical activity, exercise, and human movement. The Exercise and Wellness emphasis applies this science to improve fitness, performance, and overall health in individuals and communities through exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies.

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Bachelor's Degree

Movement and Rehabilitation Emphasis

March 25, 2026 04:35 PM

Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences is the scientific study of how the body functions during physical activity, exercise, and human movement. The Movement and Rehabilitation emphasis applies this science to clinical and therapeutic settings, preparing students to assess, treat, and restore movement in individuals with injury, disease, or disability.

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Highlighted Courses

Build a strong foundation in human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and therapeutic exercise while developing skills in injury prevention, movement analysis, rehabilitation techniques, and evidence-based practice to support health, recovery, and physical performance across diverse populations.

Strength Training Theory and Application

ESS 381

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Human Anatomy and Physiology I

September 26, 2025 10:11 AM

BIO 264

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Biomechanics of Sport and Exercise

HRHP 415

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Exercise Physiology Research

ESS 497

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Sports Nutrition

Nutr 350

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Introduction to Kinesiology and Biomechanics

September 26, 2025 10:23 AM

HRHP 359

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Exercise Physiology

September 26, 2025 10:25 AM

ESS 375

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Aerobic Exercise in Health and Disease

September 26, 2025 10:26 AM

ESS 386

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4-Year Plan

See Example Class Plan

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See all required courses

Salary Outlook for BYUI Graduates

Explore earnings data for BYU-Idaho students who graduated in exercise science-related fields.

1 year

$28,225

Average Salary

5 years

$60,769

Average Salary

10 years

$89,990

Average Salary

Career Possibilities for Exercise and Wellness

Graduates with a degree in Exercise and Wellness have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

Career Options

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National Average Salary

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Employment Outlook

Growth rate for the next 10 years

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Top companies hiring

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Exercise and Wellness

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery

Convo - Education & Human Development - July 2024

Career Possibilities

Certifications You Can Earn Alongside an Exercise and Wellness Degree

July 09, 2026 10:49 AM

Explore certifications that can expand your expertise in fitness, wellness, nutrition, coaching, and health promotion.

1 Min Read

Industry Insights

Difference Between Exercise Science, Kinesiology, and Exercise Physiology 

July 09, 2026 12:23 PM

Clarify how these related fields differ in their focus on movement, human performance, and the body’s response to exercise.

2 Min Read

Find the Right Fit

Electives and Minors to Strengthen Your Exercise and Wellness Degree

July 09, 2026 10:54 AM

Discover academic additions that can broaden your knowledge of health, business, coaching, nutrition, and human performance.

2 Min Read

AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

Learn more about AI in Academics

AI in Human Performance and Recreation

Students learn how to thoughtfully use artificial intelligence tools to support learning, professional development, and career preparation, gaining an understanding of how AI can be applied responsibly in both personal life and health-related professions.

Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness

AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.