Program spotlight: University of Vermont’s Exercise Science degree

The University of Vermont (UVM) is preparing the next generation of health and performance professionals through its Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, a program that combines classroom learning with extensive clinical, laboratory, and community-based experience.

Offered through UVM’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the 124-credit undergraduate degree equips students with the scientific knowledge and practical skills needed to improve health, fitness, rehabilitation, and athletic performance across diverse populations.

The program comes as demand for exercise science professionals continues to rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for exercise physiologists is projected to grow 10% between 2023 and 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, while broader demand for health and wellness professionals continues to increase as populations age and chronic diseases become more prevalent.

Students gain hands-on experience in UVM’s specialised Exercise Physiology Lab, Human Motion Analysis Lab, Adapted Physical Activity Lab, and Post-Traumatic Osteoarthritis Research Lab, using industry-standard technology including metabolic carts, body composition analysis systems, and cardiorespiratory testing equipment.

The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, sports nutrition, exercise physiology, clinical exercise physiology, adapted physical activity, motor learning, lifestyle medicine, and exercise prescription. Students also complete a senior capstone and professional internship to build clinical and workplace experience before graduation.

UVM partners with organisations including UVM Medical Center, Burlington YMCA, VASTA Physical Therapy and Performance, and Special Olympics, providing students with opportunities to work in clinical, rehabilitation, research, and community health settings.

Many graduates continue into postgraduate study in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic, clinical exercise physiology, and public health.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) through the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES). Beginning in 2027, graduation from a CAAHEP-accredited program will be required for eligibility to pursue advanced certifications offered by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

Graduate outcomes highlight the program’s strong employment record. According to UVM, 92% of graduates are employed in the exercise or allied health professions, enrolled in graduate study, or serving in the military within six months of graduation. The university also reports 100% student satisfaction and 100% employer satisfaction among recent graduates.

As healthcare systems place greater emphasis on preventative care, rehabilitation, and healthy ageing, UVM’s Exercise Science degree is designed to prepare graduates for careers in hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, sports organisations, corporate wellness programs, community health services, and fitness centres, while providing a strong foundation for advanced study in the health professions.