Explore the science of human movement and behavior.

Movement professionals are in high demand. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that occupations such as physical therapist, physical therapy assistant, exercise physiologist, and athletic trainer are all expected to grow much faster than the average occupation through 2033.

The Exercise Science major at John Carroll University prepares you for rewarding careers in service to others, whether training athletes to reach peak performance, supporting patients through recovery after injury, or helping people with chronic conditions improve their overall health. With a pre-physical therapy concentration, this program is also ideal for students interested in pursuing graduate and professional school.

True to our Jesuit roots, our program emphasizes respect and dignity of the whole person. You’ll leave the program ready to work effectively and compassionately with people of all backgrounds.

Immersive Learning

Gain real-world experience through practicums and internships. Our proximity to Cleveland means access to professional sports teams and top-tier hospitals.

Active Campus Life

Get a move on! JCU offers more than 30 intramural and club sports, as well as student organizations like the Exercise Science Club.

Program Overview & Outcomes

As an exercise science student, you’ll blend theory and practical application to develop a deep understanding and appreciation of human movement and function across the life span. Throughout the program, you will develop knowledge in:

  • The structure and function of the human body
  • Movement, motor, fitness, and sports skills development and learning
  • Lifespan development and developmental disabilities and regression
  • Health, lifestyle wellness, and working with diverse populations
  • Moral and ethical behavior for a movement professional

Your Path Forward Starts Here

Plan your future from day one. Finish faster with accelerated degrees or secure your spot with early assurance partnerships.

4 years

Bachelor of Science

Exercise Science at John Carroll University. Knowledge of movement skills, motor skills, fitness skills, and sports skills development and learning.

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Master of Science in Exercise Physiology (MS)

Advance your knowledge of human performance with an accelerated master's in Exercise Physiology.

Gannon

Early Assurance

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Build your JCU foundation, then move into a professional DPT program that equips you to restore mobility and improve lives.

LECOM · NEOMED · Toledo · OU Heritage · Duquesne · CWRU

Early Assurance

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

Guaranteed admission to medical school for our early assurance partnerships. Any major welcome—multiple paths to MD or DO.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Combine your JCU bachelor's degree with a master's in business administration in just one additional year.

Master of Arts in Sports Leadership (MA)

Develop advanced leadership and management skills for careers in athletics administration, sports marketing, and recreational program management.

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Future in Focus

Nine graduate credits count toward both degrees—developing advanced expertise in human performance while finishing your bachelor's. You pay your undergraduate tuition rate, and your financial aid still applies. Launch your career sooner.

Future in Focus

Lock in your seat in a Doctor of Physical Therapy program while you're still an undergrad. Focus on building your foundation at JCU knowing your clinical career is already in motion.

Future in Focus

Lock in your medical school acceptance while you're still an undergrad. No MCAT stress, no application uncertainty. Focus on your JCU education knowing your future in medicine is already set.

Future in Focus

Nine graduate credits count toward both degrees—building executive-level skills while completing your bachelor's. You pay your undergraduate tuition rate with financial aid applied. An MBA for the cost of a few extra courses.

Future in Focus

Nine graduate credits count toward both degrees—developing leadership skills for the sports industry while completing your bachelor's. You pay your undergraduate tuition rate with financial aid applied. Two degrees, one path to the front office.

 
JCU's Distinct Promise

Pathways are just the beginning.
Onward makes them happen.

From your first semester forward, Onward connects your goals with the people, experiences, and support that help you build momentum with purpose.

Watch the Story

Quincy's Story

Starting in his first semester at John Carroll, Quincy Unger '26 found a team who helped him shape his ideas, find the right opportunities, and launch his own business.

Discover Onward

Where Our Alumni Go

Our alumni pursue meaningful careers within healthcare, nutrition, fitness, wellness, sports, and even business. Others pursue graduate and professional school in areas like exercise physiology, sports leadership, or physical therapy.

Cleveland Clinic
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Special Olympics United Sports
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Ymca
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