College of Science, Technology, and Health
Exercise Science, BS with Pre-Athletic Training Emphasis
Bachelor’s Degree offered in On-campus format.
*On-campus format may require some online classes for degree completion.
The Lindenwood University Exercise Science, BS with a Pre-Athletic Training emphasis prepares students for careers in athletic training and related health professions by combining a strong foundation in exercise science with the prerequisite coursework needed for graduate-level study.
This emphasis is designed for students who want to pursue athletic training as a profession and provides a clear, structured pathway into Lindenwood’s Athletic Training, MS program. Students develop knowledge in human movement, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance while gaining the academic preparation needed for advanced clinical training.
Pre-Athletic Training Pathway
Accelerated 3+2 Program Option
Lindenwood offers a 3+2 accelerated pathway that allows qualified students to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and a Master of Science in Athletic Training in as little as five years.
During the first three years, students complete general education and core exercise science coursework. Upon acceptance into the Athletic Training, MS program, students begin graduate-level coursework in their fourth year, completing both degrees on an accelerated timeline.
This pathway provides an efficient route to entering the athletic training profession and meeting the educational requirements to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam.
Important: Admission into the Athletic Training, MS program is competitive and requires a separate application through ATCAS.
Program Details
Earning an Exercise Science Degree at Lindenwood University
The Exercise Science program provides a comprehensive foundation in human movement, physiology, and performance. Students study topics such as anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, exercise testing, and program design.
Within the Pre-Athletic Training emphasis, students complete additional coursework in areas such as medical terminology, physics, and advanced clinical concepts. Students who are accepted into the Athletic Training (MS) program continue into graduate-level coursework focused on injury evaluation, therapeutic interventions, and clinical decision-making.
The curriculum is designed to align with professional standards and prepare students for the demands of athletic training and related healthcare fields.
Essential Skills and Insights
Lindenwood University Exercise Science Faculty
Exercise science faculty at Lindenwood are experienced professionals who bring real-world knowledge into the classroom. They serve as instructors, mentors, and advisors, helping students prepare for careers in athletic training and health-related fields.
Students develop skills in injury prevention, performance assessment, rehabilitation techniques, and program design. They also gain experience in clinical reasoning and decision-making, which are essential in athletic training environments.
Experiential Learning, Real-World Impact
Hands-on learning is a core part of the Exercise Science program. Students participate in laboratory experiences, applied coursework, and practical training that reinforce classroom concepts.
For students in the Pre-Athletic Training pathway, clinical practicum experiences within the graduate program provide direct exposure to real-world athletic training environments. These experiences help students build the confidence and skills needed to work with athletes and active populations.
Careers in Athletic Training and Exercise Science
What You Can Do with an Exercise Science Degree from Lindenwood University
Students who complete the Pre-Athletic Training emphasis and continue into the Athletic Training, MS program are prepared for careers as certified athletic trainers working with athletes, teams, schools, and healthcare organizations.
Students who choose not to pursue or are not admitted into the graduate program can still complete the Exercise Science degree and pursue careers in fitness, wellness, or related health fields, or continue their education in other allied health professions.
This program also provides a strong foundation for careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant programs, and other healthcare-related paths.
Degree Requirements and Admission Considerations
Admission into the Athletic Training (MS) program requires:
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Completion of prerequisite coursework
- Minimum of 75 credit hours at time of application
- Minimum of 90 credit hours prior to entry
- Grade of C or better in all required courses
Students who are not admitted into the graduate program must transition to another emphasis or complete the standalone Exercise Science degree.
Build Your Future with Lindenwood
Lindenwood University’s Exercise Science – Pre-Athletic Training emphasis provides a clear and structured pathway into the athletic training profession. With a combination of strong academic preparation, hands-on learning, and an accelerated graduate option, students are well-positioned to succeed in this growing field.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 3+2 pathway allows qualified students to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years by beginning graduate coursework during their fourth year.
Students who complete the full pathway can become certified athletic trainers. Others may pursue careers in fitness, wellness, or continue into other healthcare-related graduate programs.
A pre-athletic training emphasis prepares students with the coursework and foundation needed to apply to a graduate-level athletic training program.