Exercise Science classroom

Exercise Science

Bachelor of Science
  • 120 Credits
  • School of Health and Natural Sciences
  • Westchester
  1. Academics
  2. Programs & Degrees
  3. Exercise Science
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Exercise Science Overview

The Exercise Science program prepares students for a broad range of occupations that promote health and physical fitness, including strength and conditioning specialists, athletic trainers , and physical therapists. Graduates are skilled in evaluating health behaviors and risk factors, conducting fitness assessments, designing exercise programs, and motivating individuals to adopt and maintain positive life behaviors.

We are one of the only exercise science programs in the tri-state area to hold both CAAHEP accreditation through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and ERP designation by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

CAAHEP ERP

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Exercise Science Tracks

You can choose one of 2 tracks, both leading to a B.S. in Exercise Science: Clinical or Performance. Both tracks prepare students for professional certification exams such as the ACSM Exercise Physiologist Certification (ACSM-EP) and the NSCA Certified and Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification.

The Exercise Science Clinical Track gives students the strong scientific foundation they need to be prepared for graduate studies in health profession programs such as physical therapy, exercise physiology, and more.

The Exercise Science Performance Track prepares students to work in high-demand fields such as strength and conditioning, personal training, weight loss management, and performance coaching just to name a few.

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The Mercy Advantage

  • CAAHEP accredited program
  • Education Recognition Program (ERP) from NSCA
  • Seamless credit transfer from community colleges
  • 100% graduate satisfaction rate
  • Dedicated exercise science lab with cutting-edge equipment 
  • Embedded internships
  • Personalized advising and mentorships
  • Small class size for personalized attention
  • Active Exercise Science club

For more information, join an info session on the Exercise Science Program here

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Career Opportunities

With a B.S. in Exercise Science, you can pursue a wide array of rewarding careers such as:
Strength and conditioning coaching
Exercise physiology
Athletic coaching
Corporate fitness
Fitness training

Our Exercise Science B.S. also prepares you for graduate school in allied health careers such as:
Physical therapy
Athletic training
Physical education
Sports nutrition
Biomechanics
Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation
Sports Psychology

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13% growth rate

Career Outcomes

Exercise Physiology jobs to grow 13% by 2030*


*Bureau of Labor Statistics
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21% growth rate

Career Outcomes

Physical Therapists to grow 21% by 2030*
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23% growth rate

Career Outcomes

Athletic Training jobs to grow 23% by 2030*

Tour the Exercise Science Lab

Meet Some Exercise Science Students

Meet Dr. Astrid Mel

Want More Info?

We'd like to hear from you! Get more information.

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NSCA New York State Clinic

Students and faculty from the Exercise Science (EXSC) program enthusiastically participated in the esteemed National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) New York State Clinic, hosted at the prestigious Fordham University on April 6th. This highly anticipated event provided an exceptional platform for our community to engage with leading figures in the fitness and conditioning industry.

EXSC rock climbing

Students and Faculty Enjoy Shared Activity

In a delightful display of camaraderie and active engagement, a cohort of exercise science students and esteemed faculty recently convened at an indoor rock climbing facility. This gathering transcended the confines of the classroom, fostering meaningful connections among participants while offering an enriching experience into the realm of adventurous pursuits. Against the backdrop of ascending walls and harnesses, students seized the chance to forge bonds with both their peers and mentors, while also immersing themselves in the exhilarating challenge of rock climbing. Such communal endeavors not only fortify the academic community but also highlight the value of holistic growth beyond conventional learning environments.

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Program Outcomes

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Synthesize and apply knowledge of core concepts from biological, physical, health, and behavioral sciences as a foundation for practice in exercise science

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Act in accordance with professional and ethical standards in the field of exercise science

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Assess health status, conduct fitness testing, and interpret results based on scientific evidence

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Utilize evidence to design, administer, and modify appropriate exercise programs for normal and at-risk populations

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Design and implement behavior modifications to promote and sustain a healthy lifestyle

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Communicate information clearly in written and oral format to clients, colleagues, and community agencies

Your Degree is Within Reach with Financial Aid

At Mercy, we strive to make college affordable for everyone. From generous financial aid to numerous scholarships and grants, we make it possible to get your degree without breaking the bank. 

Feel free to connect with our team for help completing the FAFSA and comparing financial aid options at any point in the process. Whether you need help reading your bill or understanding what aid you qualify for, we're happy to help any way we can. Explore our financial aid page or reach out to our team today!

Support Inside and Outside the Classroom

Between classes, friends, extracurriculars and exploring the many activities on campus, there's lots of exciting opportunities to keep you busy at Mercy. That's why we offer plenty of support services that you can rely on whenever you need them.

From day one, you'll have someone on your side with your very own PACT Mentor. Our PACT program pairs each student with a mentor who can help them with everything from finding classrooms to making a plan for after graduation. Plus, you can check in with your PACT Mentor as often as you'd like — it's all on your schedule!

At the Student Counseling Center, students can access clinical counseling services. We're here to help support your mental health, whether you want to talk about your classes, navigating friendships or just need a calm, safe space. Our counselors are here to help.

How Mercy Prepares You for a Career After Graduation

At Mercy, we make the transition from graduation day to a full-time job in your field seamless. Thanks to many opportunities for hands-on learning throughout your time as a Maverick, you'll have the experience and knowledge to succeed in your first job after graduation. From practicing real-life techniques in our dedicated exercise science lab to helping you find internships, you can tap into everything you need to stay on your career path and thrive after graduation.

In addition to hands-on experience, our exercise science degree program in New York gives you the skills and knowledge to pass the ACSM-EP certification and the NSCA CSCS certification. Through your coursework and use of cutting-edge equipment in our state-of-the-art lab, our program sets you up for success on test day, so you can earn your certification and begin practicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

This degree prepares students for a broad range of occupations that promote health and physical fitness. Aspiring physical therapists, athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, physical education teachers and exercise physiologists should consider earning a B.S. in Exercise Science.

Mercy University is known for flexible scheduling and small class size. Our small class size facilitates a close relationship among the students and between students and faculty. Laboratory sections are taught by the professors who teach the lectures and not by graduate students. This arrangement enables faculty to closely coordinate the lecture and laboratory components of our courses and enables students to learn laboratory skills from experienced professionals.

Yes. Acceptance of transfer credits is determined by Admissions. They consult with any graduate program to which you intend to apply. To be eligible for a BS in Exercise Science, which is a 120-credit degree, students must complete a minimum of 30 undergraduate credits at Mercy University. Mercy may transfer up to 90 undergraduate credits from a 4-year college and up to 75 credits from a 2-year community college.

Yes, faculty are always ready to help students with questions about what courses to take, the sequencing of courses, and career opportunities, including internships and cooperative education.

No! A combination of general education courses and major-level courses is recommended each semester. Students should contact their PACT advisor and / or Program Director as early as possible to plan their course of study.

Program Details & Curriculum

For a full curriculum listing visit our catalog:

Mercy’s exercise science program is one of the only programs in the tri-state area to hold both CAAHEP accreditation through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and ERP designation by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). These distinctions set the program apart by upholding the highest standards in the profession and preparing students for professional certification exams from both ACSM and NSCA.

The Exercise Science curriculum includes required internships with professionals in the workforce. We have over 100 internship opportunities ranging from hospitals and physical therapy clinics, to collegiate and professional sports teams in strength and conditioning and athletic training.

Get involved and join other students with a passion for fitness and wellness by making a difference through organizing and promoting community service, social activities and fitness events.

Download a copy of the sequence map for:

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Download a copy of the sequence map for:

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Graduate Satisfaction Rate

  # Satisfactory Surveys # Surveys Returned Satisfaction Rate (%)
2023-2024 14 14 100
2022-2023 14 14 100
2021-2022 14 14 100
2020-2021 25 25 100
2019-2020 14 14 100
2018-2019 16 16 100
2017-2018 13 13 100

 

Contact the Exercise Science Program

Dr. Astrid Mel
Program Director, Exercise Science
amel@mercy.edu
(914) 674-7874

Genesis Camarda
Administrative Assistant, Biology
gcamarda@mercy.edu
(914) 674-7550

Full-Time Faculty

Part-Time Faculty