Exercise Science

Let's Get Moving

Exercise Science is an academic area of study concerned with the art and science of physical movement. This department explores the processes through which individuals obtain optimal health, physical skills, and fitness. Learning concentrates on human movement as it affects and is affected by physiological, psychological, cultural, social, and mechanical parameters. The application of movement concepts evolves from a foundation in human anatomy, physiology, and principles of kinesiology that cover healthful living, nutrition, and emergency practices.

Program Awards

Our Exercise Science programs are included in the Health, Wellness & Public Safety field of study and offer these awards:

Award	Location	Estimated Completion	Program Map
Kinesiology (SB1440), Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT)	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Kinesiology-Sports Medicine, Associate in Science Degree: Transfer Preparation	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Exercise Science, Associate in Arts Degree: Transfer Preparation	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Fitness Specialist Certification---Advanced, Certificate of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Yoga Teacher Training - 200 Hour, Certificate of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Yoga Teacher Training - 300 Hour, Certificate of Achievement
Fitness Specialist Certification---Basic, Certificate of Proficiency

Common Careers

Below is a sample of the career options available for the exercise science major. A few of these require an associate degree, most require a bachelor’s degree, and some require a graduate-level degree: athletic trainer, high school or college instructor, coach, corrective therapist, exercise test technologist, sports medicine doctor, recreation specialist, community center leader, personal trainer, rehabilitation technician, sportscaster, referee, resort sports coordinator, and sports club manager or personnel, exercise physiologist and physical therapist.

The average annual salary in this field is $50,320 for occupations like Exercise Trainer & Group Fitness Instructor.

Typical Duties

• Performing General Physical Activities
  Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
• Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
• Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
  Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
• Coaching and Developing Others
  Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
• Training and Teaching Others
  Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
• Assisting and Caring for Others
  Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
• Getting Information
  Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Thinking Creatively
  Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Scheduling Work and Activities
  Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
• Handling and Moving Objects
  Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
• Communicating with People Outside the Organization
  Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
• Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
  Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Developing Objectives and Strategies
  Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
• Selling or Influencing Others
  Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
• Documenting/Recording Information
  Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.