Qualified exercise science professionals are currently in high demand, and obtaining a bachelor's degree in exercise science is ideal for those with a passion for helping people achieve and maintain good health and well-being.
Get a career in the fitness industry started today with an affordable exercise science degree online from an accredited university. Here are ten programs that offer valuable education through flexible and convenient distance learning at a low cost.
The Top Affordable Exercise Science Degrees Online
Below is a list of accredited universities with the most affordable exercise science degree online programs in the nation.
1. University of the Cumberlands
The University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky provides the most affordable exercise science degree online at $220 per credit hour, which incorporates all fees with their One Price Promise.
To earn their Bachelor of Science degree in exercise and sports science, students need to complete 36 hours of coursework in the major. A Bachelor of Arts degree can be earned by including 12 hours in a foreign language.
2. Pennsylvania Western University
It is possible to get a college education through distance learning at a low cost at Pennsylvania Western University. Their tuition is $322 per credit for residents and $328 for non-residents, and active-duty military members have a reduced rate of $250 per credit.
Its bachelor's degree in exercise and sports science requires 120 credits and can be done in three years. It offers a concentration in human performance and wellness that focuses on professional development and preventative healthcare.
3. Cameron University
Students can earn an affordably priced online Bachelor of Science degree in sports and exercise science at Cameron University in Oklahoma, where tuition is just $230 per semester hour for in-state residents.
Non-residents pay a rate of $544 per semester hour, and it requires a minimum of 124 hours to graduate. Coursework includes subjects like sports nutrition and physiology of exercise, preparing individuals to pursue health educator and fitness instructor roles.
4. University of Saint Mary
The University of Saint Mary in Kansas provides an accredited Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science that costs $415 per credit hour plus fees. It requires 120 total credits with up to 90 allowable transfer credits.
This program teaches theories and principles in human kinetics and covers topics like nutrition strategies and life-saving emergency care. It prepares students for valued certification from nationally recognized groups such as the American Council on Exercise.
5. Franklin University
Franklin University in Ohio offers a comprehensive education at a reasonable price of $398 per credit plus applicable fees for its online bachelor's degree in exercise science. Students need to complete 120 credits to graduate.
Core coursework covers topics like designing exercise programs and the principles of strength training and conditioning. This degree follows the guidelines set by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) for exercise testing and prescription.
6. Concordia University St. Paul
Concordia University St. Paul in Minnesota charges $420 per credit plus book and other fees for its Bachelor of Arts degree in exercise science through online learning. It requires 120 credit hours to graduate.
Students study kinesiology and physiology and pursue coaching careers or jobs as personal trainers or educators. This program allows up to 90 credits to be transferred and can be done in two years, helping to lower tuition costs.
7. Methodist University
Methodist University in North Carolina has an affordable exercise science degree online, preparing students for fitness instructor and physiology careers. It costs $435 per credit plus applicable fees and requires 124 total credits. Up to 93 transferable credits are allowed.
The curriculum provides instruction in biomechanics, the physiology of exercise, and in conducting performance assessments. Its courses are delivered through online asynchronous learning, providing much-needed flexibility for working professionals.
8. Lionel University
Lionel University in California offers a valuable education at an inexpensive rate. Its Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science costs $333 per credit plus additional costs such as proctoring and technology fees.
It covers kinesiology and sports psychology and is ideal for students embarking on careers as strength coaches or clinical exercise specialists. The program requires a total of 180 credits to graduate and consists of 10 personal trainer certification courses.
9. University of Kansas
The University of Kansas provides a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in exercise science through flexible distance education for $485 per credit plus applicable fees. At least 120 credits are needed for graduation.
The curriculum includes strength and conditioning methods and sport and exercise nutrition, and it prepares students for earning industry certifications. This degree is an excellent choice for those seeking coaching or corporate wellness career paths.
10. Maryville University
Maryville University in Missouri extends an affordable exercise science degree online that costs $525 per credit for undergraduate courses. Technology and other additional fees apply.
Students choose from concentrations in wellness management or strength and conditioning for their Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science, which requires 128 total credits.
This program puts students on the path toward earning industry certifications and job opportunities as fitness instructors or wellness program managers.
Average Cost of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science
The cost of earning an online bachelor's degree in exercise science varies by program type and depends on whether a student enrolls part-time or full-time at a public or private institution.
Tuition ranges from $220 to upwards of $525 per credit hour, as described on our list above of reputable and affordable exercise science online programs.
Individuals must also consider variable costs around technology and book fees or additional charges for distance learning courses. Required credits also matter, with most programs mandating about 120 credit hours for graduation.
How To Finance an Online Exercise Science Degree
Financing an online exercise science degree starts with filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which helps to ascertain whether a student qualifies for Federal Pell Grants, Federal Student Loans, or the possibility for work-study.
Scholarships and institutional aid are also available to help with college costs, as is other financial aid through tuition reimbursement programs and installment payment plans. Military benefits such as the GI Bill include tuition discounts for educational expenses.
Benefits of an Exercise Science Degree
With an increasing demand for professionals with knowledge and education in this field, earning an exercise science degree can benefit those seeking fulfilling fitness careers.
As our society places more emphasis on health and wellness, pursuing a degree in exercise science can lead to a diverse range of career opportunities within the industry, such as exercise physiologists, fitness trainers, cardiac rehabilitation specialists, and more.
Getting a degree in exercise science can be valuable for obtaining high-paying jobs and helps to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of others.
Start Your Exercise Science Degree Online Today
Discover accredited universities offering an affordable exercise science degree online to kickstart a career in the fitness industry today with this list of reputable programs providing practical education at inexpensive costs.
