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HUMAN PERFORMANCE

Exercise Science Improves and Enhances Human Performance

Personal trainers teach people how to live more active—and healthier—lifestyles. Working as an exercise science professional, you are a trusted partner guiding clients to achieve their fitness goals.

Manchester University’s Bachelor of Exercise Science in Human Performance degree is designed for the study of the practical applications of fitness. It includes health, wellness and sports-related disciplines such as personal training, strength and conditioning and fitness instruction.

Our hands-on exercise degree provides you with a complete understanding of structural anatomy, nutritional concepts and biomechanics. Additional exposure to clinical science and rehabilitation science principles, helps you develop refined techniques to prescribe and teach exercises based on your client’s objectives and abilities.

In-depth experiential learning through practicums and internships is the cornerstone of MU’s human performance program. You’ll work alongside other students and faculty on practical application and simulation.

With state-of-the-art technology, you’ll also be prepared to take the Certified Strength and Conditioning (CSCS) exam from the National Strength and Conditioning Association before graduation.

MU HUMAN PERFORMANCE AT A GLANCE

51

Credits

3

Years*

Tuition

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Fall Session

August 2025

Learning Environment

On Campus

Faculty

Meet your professors

*Human Performance students can earn this degree in 3-4 years.

Why Manchester to Earn Your BS Exercise Science Degree?

Manchester University’s human performance degree program includes health, wellness and sports-related disciplines. Along with personal training courses, you’ll have the opportunity to work directly with clients.

Experiential Learning

MU’s state-of-the-art human performance lab for exercise physiology and prescription gives you the hands-on training to excel.

Our strength and conditioning and personal training courses include access to PERCH velocity-based training. PERCH is the MIT-developed, intuitive performance training solution preferred by clinical science and rehabilitation science professionals.

Exceptional faculty

The faculty members of our exercise science programs hold advanced degrees, are highly credentialed and have decades of experience. Working one-on-one with students, they will guide you on the best path to achieve your individual career goals.

Meet your professors

Industry-specific training

Part of your personal training courses includes practicum and internships. Under the supervision of faculty, you’ll design and execute health and wellness plans for real clients.

Small Class Sizes

The student-to-teacher ratio of courses in our programs is 20:1. Hands-on learning opportunities have even lower ratios to provide for optimal faculty oversight and direction.

What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science?

Combining the personal training courses of your human performance degree with exposure to clinical science and rehabilitation science, many professional roles are available, including:

  • Personal trainer
  • Athletic director
  • Professional fitness coach
  • Physical therapist assistants
  • Exercise physiologists
  • Fitness instructors

 

Career outlook for exercise science

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 10 percent growth rate for exercise science-related jobs through 2032—a rate much faster than average.

Earning a master’s degree expands your career opportunities— 98% of MU exercise science graduates are accepted into their graduate school of choice.

Manchester’s College of Pharmacy, Natural and Health Sciences offers several, comprehensive health-related master’s programs, including our highly sought after Master of Athletic Training (MAT) program.

Learn more about the career outlook for a career in Human Performance through the BLS
$79,746
+10 %
$64,914
 Personal Trainer Job OutlookAverage Annual Salary 

What is the earning potential for personal trainers?

Salary.com reports an annual salary range of $46,828 and $79,746 for personal trainers in Indiana, with an annual average of $64,914.

What Types of Courses Will You Take as a Human Performance Major?

Your personal training courses and other classes are aligned with earning the credentials you’ll need to pursue industry roles. Lecture and lab learning is industry-specific and taught by instructors who know what it takes to succeed. The comprehensive curriculum includes:

  • Introduction to Rehabilitation Sciences
  • Individual and Dual Performance Training
  • Fundamentals of Human Physiology w/Lab
  • Introduction to Human Nutrition
  • Principles of Coaching
  • Functional Kinesiology

  • View all courses on the Human Performance Program.

Accreditation for MU’s Exercise Science Degree

All Manchester University’s exercise science degrees are Educational Recognized Programs (ERP) with the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Additionally, we are in the process of securing accreditation by the Council on Accreditation for Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE).

Ready to Start With Your Personal Training Courses?

MU trains you in every aspect of exercise science for optimal human performance.

Fast Forward your human performance degree

If your goal is to earn your bachelor’s degree in three years, Manchester University’s Fast Forward program may be the right fit. As a Fast Forward student, you can complete most majors through a combination of AP/dual credit and individualized academic advising. In addition to the first-year requirements, you’ll also be required to:

  1. Select a specific major.
  2. Apply by May 1 prior to the beginning of first-year classes.

Manchester University's Non-Discrimination Admissions Policy

Manchester University is committed to non-discrimination in campus life. The University does not discriminate on the basis of national origin, ancestry, race, color, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, familial status, religion, disability or veteran status in admissions or any area of campus life, including its educational programs, scholarships and loan awards, residence life programs, athletic programs, extracurricular programs, promotion and tenure policies and practice, and alumni affairs.

Manchester University is committed to carry out the provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans With Disabilities Act, which provide for accessibility of University programs to the physically disabled.