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Bachelor of Science

Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences: Exercise and Wellness Emphasis (B.S.)

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.
Excercise Science

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.

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.

Graduate Career-Ready

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.

BYU-Idaho Graduate Salaries

Graduates of the Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences program find employment in physical therapy clinics, hospitals, fitness facilities, cardiac rehabilitation centers, athletic training environments, private gyms, and collegiate strength and conditioning programs.

Common Career Paths

Through in-depth study of human anatomy, movement, injury, and rehabilitation, this program prepares students for careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and sports performance coaching, with many graduates continuing on to graduate school for specialized professional training.

Preparation for Grad School

The major is designed to help students complete prerequisite coursework for graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, dietetics, and strength and conditioning, as well as professional programs such as medical school, dental school, and physician assistant programs.

AI in Academics

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

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.

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