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Exercise and Human Performance Science

If you’re passionate about helping people live healthier lives, an Exercise and Human Performance degree can build the science-based knowledge you need to make a difference.

As an Exercise and Human Performance Science major at York College of Pennsylvania, you’ll develop a well-rounded education that prepares you for a career in the rapidly growing exercise, health, and wellness industry. 

YCP’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Human Performance offers two concentrations, so you can follow the path that best aligns with your career goals. These concentrations are: 

  • Professional Track — This concentration helps students to prepare for a professional graduate program, in the event that their chosen career path requires an advanced degree such as physical therapy or occupational therapy.
  • Management of Fitness and Wellness Track — This track builds skills needed for leadership roles in the fitness and wellness industry, including owning your own business. 

Studying Exercise and Human Performance Science gives you the practical tools and education needed to help others improve their quality of life.

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A young woman does sit-ups in a gym environment while a trainer holds her feet to the floor.

Majoring in Exercise and Human Performance Science

  • Key Courses

    Exercise and Human Performance Program Courses

    The Exercise and Human Performance degree blends science curriculum with hands-on learning opportunities. Through engaging lab practices, field experiences, and lectures, you’ll study the effect of exercise and physical activities on health and wellbeing.

    The course sequence for the Exercise and Human Performance major depends on your area of concentration, but some of your core courses may include: 

    • EPS 101: Foundations of Exercise and Human Performance
    • BIO 150: Introduction to Molecular Biology
    • EPS 201: Exercise Physiology
    • EPS 205: Kinesiology
    • BIO 220: Human Anatomy and Physiology I
    • BEH 260: Statistics for Behavioral Sciences
    • BIO 226: Food and Nutrition

    As an Exercise and Human Performance major, you’ll develop the foundational knowledge and skills needed to complete certification examinations offered by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

  • Career Opportunities & Benefits

    Careers in Exercise Science and Human Performance

    A Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Human Performance will prepare you for a rewarding career in health and fitness, corporate wellness, sales and marketing, and related fields.

    Examples of careers in Exercise and Human Performance include:

    • Exercise Technologist
    • Exercise Physiologist
    • Health/Fitness Instructor
    • Health/Fitness Director
    • Advanced Personal Trainer
    • Health Promotion Program Director

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of exercise physiologists is projected to grow 13% over the next decade. That’s faster than the average for all occupations. Careers in fitness training and instruction are expected to increase by 39% over the same time period.

    Exercise and Human Performance Degree Salary Information

    As with any profession, the salary range for careers in the field of Exercise and Human Performance Science varies based on the specific role, title, level of experience, and location. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median salary for fitness trainers and instructors at $40, 510, while exercise physiologists earned $50,280.

    Benefits of an Exercise and Human Performance Degree

    An Exercise and Human Performance bachelor degree prepares you to immediately enter the workforce or enroll in a graduate program. 

    Some of the benefits of pursuing an Exercise and Human Performance degree include:

    • Development of a science-based education, designed to meet the projected job market demand
    • Flexibility to choose a concentration based on your professional goals and career aspirations
    • Preparation to complete national certification examinations
    • Internship and mentorship opportunities
    • Hands-on laboratory experiences in YCP’s state-of-the-art facilities
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  • Internships & Work Experience

    Internships & Work Experience

    Designed to strengthen your confidence and expand your understanding in the field, internships provide an opportunity for you to get real-world practice and build connections with future employers.

    As an Exercise and Human Performance major, you can gain hands-on experience through internships with local wellness and fitness centers, athletic teams, corporations, and more. York College’s network of community partners, including local healthcare agencies, also provides meaningful opportunities for you to enhance your education and résumé.

  • Mentorship & Community

    Mentorship & Community

    York College’s Department of Health Professions faculty are available to provide guidance and support as you earn your Exercise and Human Performance degree. Your faculty advisor and professors are committed to helping you make the most of your college experience.

    YCP is home to more than 100 clubs and organizations that empower you to connect with other students, explore your interests, and have fun. The Recreation and Leisure Student Association, Pre-Medical and Allied Health Society, and club sports programs are just a few examples.

  • High-Demand Skills

    Exercise and Human Performance Degree Skills and Requirements

    When you earn an Exercise and Human Performance bachelor degree from YCP, the benefits of your education extend far beyond the classroom. You’ll graduate with in-demand knowledge and skills that empower you to support health and wellbeing outcomes. Program graduates can: 

    • Apply science-based knowledge to help people live healthier lives
    • Develop strategies to enhance human performance
    • Use physical activity and exercise to improve health and wellbeing
    • Communicate effectively 
    • Think critically
    • Actively listen
    • Demonstrate empathy and compassion

    Best Minors for Exercise and Human Performance Majors

    Declaring a minor is an excellent way to expand your education and explore your interests, while also enhancing your résumé. YCP offers numerous minor programs that complement an Exercise and Human Performance degree, including: 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What jobs can you get with a human performance degree?

    Earning an Exercise and Human Performance degree opens the door to a variety of careers in the growing field of exercise, health, and fitness. Some graduates choose to work in fitness centers and health clubs, while others seek out corporate settings where they can develop or manage wellness programs. The knowledge and skills you develop as an Exercise and Human Performance major can be applied across diverse settings.

  • What is a human performance degree?

    YCP’s Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Human Performance explores the science-based connection between exercise, nutrition, and wellness. The degree is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the fitness and wellness industry or entry into professional graduate programs.

  • Is Exercise and Human Performance a good degree?

    Careers in exercise, health, and fitness are in demand, and the industry is projected to grow over the next decade. If you are passionate about understanding the effects of exercise and physical activities on health and wellbeing, and want to use your knowledge and skills to help others, an Exercise and Human Performance degree may be a good fit for you.

Contact Us
Department of Health Professions
Elizabeth Shearer, M.S.
Department of Health Professions, Chair

Phone: 717.815.1740
healthprofessions@ycp.edu