Exercise Physiology Major

About our program

Go deep into the study of how the body works and be well equipped to develop programs that enhance it. Plus, you’ll be admitted directly into the College of Health Sciences and start your exercise physiology studies from your first day.

With courses that include human form and function, scientific principles of conditioning, medical screening, and exercise testing and prescription, you’ll be well prepared to take your next step — whether you plan to enter the health and fitness workforce right after graduation or go on to a graduate or professional program, including our Athletic Training and Physical Therapy programs.

And because values and service are integrated into everything we do, you’ll develop a deep sense of purpose along with the skill and expertise you’ll gain, and you’ll know how to apply your skills to improve the fitness of individuals as well as inspire happier and healthier communities.

A view of the Schroeder Complex building on campus.

Schroeder Complex, College of Health Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette's College of Health Sciences

As part of the College of Health Sciences, you’ll join our community of faculty scholars and academically talented peers who are doing cutting-edge research, providing expert care and serving communities in Milwaukee and around the world. And 98% of our students are employed, in graduate school or military service six months after graduation. 

What can you do with a major in exercise physiology from Marquette?

The majority of our graduates go onto graduate and health professional schools. Here’s where some of our recent graduates landed:

  • Carroll University

  • Marquette University

  • Regis University

  • University of Indianapolis

  • University of Wisconsin–Madison

  • Youngstown State University

For those who did go into the workforce, here’s a sampling of their occupations:

  • Cardiac rehab specialist

  • Exercise specialist

  • Health care recruiter

  • Industry fitness trainer

  • Rehab service coordinator

decorative building with students looking at beaker

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.   

 

Spaces to learn

In our gross anatomy lab, you'll see the human body up close for an entire, intensive semester. It's one of the only gross anatomy courses for undergrads in the country. 

Clinicals and professional experience

Explore career possibilities and get resume-building professional practice with guaranteed clinical placements. Our students have done clinicals in settings as diverse as professional sports teams, innovative therapeutic centers and cutting-edge physiology research labs.

Undergraduate research

You’ll get a chance to work with internationally respected researchers and their teams and get a chance to put your knowledge into action.

Here are some of the things Marquette faculty and students are studying right now:

  • Biomechanics and energetics of marathon running
  • Embedding science into training camps for elite athletes
  • Mechanisms of exercise fatigue
  • Effect of aging on muscles
  • Neuromuscular physiology of human movement
  • Integrative muscle physiology and energetics

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the drivers of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program.

Study abroad

Expand your education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available for exercise physiology students through core courses, summer study, Global Brigades, language study, faculty-led programs or research.

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.