Overview

The Exercise Science B.S. at South Dakota State University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the physiological and scientific concepts essential for improving human health and athletic performance. This programme equips future professionals with the skills to implement health assessments, change wellness behaviours, and create supportive environments for physical activity.

Students explore the application of acute and chronic exercise physiology to reduce the risk of chronic disease and enhance quality of life across diverse populations. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are prepared to assist individuals in developing self-responsibility for their own wellbeing.

Why Exercise Science at South Dakota State University?

South Dakota State University offers a robust learning environment through the School of Health and Human Sciences, providing access to specialised facilities like the Miller Wellness Center. Students benefit from strong community links and a dedicated Wintrode Student Success and Opportunity Center to support their academic journey. The programme is ideal for those who enjoy science-based coursework and wish to lead a healthy lifestyle while helping others achieve their fitness goals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 387 per credit
National fee: USD 387 per credit
Local fee: USD 267 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Exercise Physiology
Health Assessments
Wellness Programmes
Human Movement Science
Chronic Disease Prevention
Athletic Performance Enhancement
Health Promotion

Careers with Exercise Science

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in commercial, clinical, and industrial settings. Many pursue careers as personal trainers, group exercise instructors, or worksite wellness coordinators. The degree also serves as a foundation for further education in specialised medical fields.

Common career paths and graduate destinations include:

Gym or Wellness Centre Manager
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
Physical or Occupational Therapist
Chiropractor

Recent graduates have secured employment with prominent organisations such as Sanford Health, Avera Health, the Orthopedic Institute, and GreatLIFE Golf and Fitness. Many also find opportunities within university strength and conditioning departments or community health initiatives.

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs upon recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Human Anatomy

Physiology

Health and Human Performance

Professional Development
Clinical Exercise Phisiology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

More details

National: SDSU accepts applications on a rolling admissions timeline.

Language

English

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Brookings, United States

Disciplines

Animal Science Kinesiology View 670 other Bachelors in Kinesiology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

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IELTS

5.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

For admission to SDSU, we look for one of the following academic achievements:

An ACT composite score or ACT superscore of 18 or SAT Math and Reading/Writing subscore total of 970 or
Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter Balance Assessment or
A high school cumulative GPA of 2.6 or higher or
A ranking in the top 60 percent of graduating class.

Students should also complete the following core courses with a “C” average or above:

4 years of English (or ACT English subscore of 18 or above).
3 years of advanced math—Algebra I and higher (or ACT math subscore of 20).
3 years of laboratory science (or ACT science reasoning subscore of 17).
3 years of social science (or ACT reading subscore of 17).
1 year of fine arts (or AP Fine Arts score of 3 or above) Includes vocal, instrumental and studio arts.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Out-of-State

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8010 USD / year

≈ 8010 USD / year

Additional Details

Minnesota Resident: $312.25 per credit.

Living costs

Brookings

United States

1085 - 1888 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Exercise Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Accreditation

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Brookings

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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