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Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Nutrition Management

Advance Your Skills in Exercise, Nutrition, and Fitness Entrepreneurship

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Bachelor's Degree in Exercise, Fitness, & Nutrition

Career Outlook and Growth

Convert your healthy lifestyle and passion for fitness, nutrition, and exercise into a full-time career.  With a Bachelor’s Degree from Bryan University in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Nutrition Management, you’ll gain a unique skill set and prepare for a fulfilling career in a growing industry.

Expanding Careers

Careers for health and fitness professionals, exercise instructors, nutrition coaches, and personal trainers are projected to grow much faster than average through the year 2031 at a rate of 11% or higher with projected job openings of 65,500 in the US.1

1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2021-22 Edition, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/fitness-trainers-and-instructors.htm. Also see https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/39-9031.00. Sites visited 1/20/2023. Also, job market conditions are dynamic and can change. This data is not intended to predict the market conditions that will be present when you graduate from your program and may differ based on your geographic location and other factors.

Attractive Career Opportunities

As a graduate of the bachelor’s degree program, you’ll have the advanced knowledge and skillset to be job-ready for career opportunities2 that may include:

  • Certified Personal Trainer for Specialty Populations – learn advanced training techniques for those with disabilities, chronic disease, injuries, youth, and more.  Work in a gym setting, as an independent contractor, or self-employed.
  • Fitness Educator – help students successfully achieve their program requirements and career competencies.3
  • Sports Performance Coach – coach a high school sports team or individual athletes by effectively implementing goal-setting, action planning, and communication & motivation strategies.
  • Nutrition Coach – maximize your client’s success by providing nutrition coaching strategies based on food preferences, culture, and physical training demands.
  • Group Fitness/Exercise Instructor – conduct a safe and effective group exercise class for specialty modalities offered at commercial fitness centers.
  • Fitness Studio/Gym Owner – be your own boss and run your own gym or fitness studio by utilizing your business acumen and entrepreneurial skills learned in class.
  • Exercise Director/Club Manager – open doors of opportunity into managerial positions at commercial fitness centers.
  • Strength and Conditioning Specialist – prepare to sit for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

2Example occupations shown herein do not imply a guarantee of employment. Students are responsible for conducting occupational research for their chosen program. Employers have unique hiring practices and job-specific requirements, which may include years of experience for manager positions. Graduates with little to no prior experience should expect an entry-level position.
3May require additional teacher certification, depending upon your state of residence.

Diverse Employers

Health and fitness professionals, coaches and educators may have different opportunities for employment at the bachelor’s degree level. From corporate settings to healthcare facilities to high-energy gyms and fitness centers, there are work environments for different personality types. Examples may include:

  • Commercial gyms and fitness facilities
  • Corporate fitness centers
  • High Schools
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Self-employment
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Career & Job Search Services for Students & Grads

You’ll receive a dedicated career services advisor that provides job search assistance, job networking best practices, interview preparation, and helps you create an eye-catching resume.

Employers Who Have Hired BU Grads

Program Highlights

120
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Total Credits
100%
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Online
2
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Courses at a Time
8
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Weeks per Course

Get the Skills Employers Want

Bryan U programs are aligned with employers’ needs to ensure you get the most current and relevant skills, including:

Bachelor's Degree

  • Advanced anatomy
  • Advanced physiology
  • Advanced health screening
  • Sports performance assessments
  • Ergogenic aids counseling
  • Exercise psychology and motivation
  • Exercise programming for specialty populations
  • Rest, recovery, and corrective exercise strategies
  • Sports nutrition for athletes
  • Nutrition for specialty populations
  • Nutrition coaching
  • Business skills for self-employment, including marketing, management and leadership
  • Communications, writing, and research.
  • Preparation for NASM’s Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) - one exam attempt included in tuition
  • Qualify to sit for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) cert with NSCA

Gain Valuable Experience

Bryan University’s Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Nutrition Management is aligned with current competencies by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and developed in collaboration with industry experts. You’ll gain valuable practice experience online combined with assignments that simulate job tasks to ensure you’re job-ready upon graduation.

Get targeted practice using NASM’s test prep study modules to prepare for certification exams such as Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC). Track your progress and get feedback for improvement. Also qualify for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification through NSCA.

Practice & demonstrate your skills to your instructors from home using a mobile-compatible video platform integrated into your learning assignments. Role-play trainer-client conversations & fitness/nutrition consultations.

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Upgrade Your Skills & Career Options: Stackable Programs with Dual Enrollment

All Bryan University programs are stacked, which means once you earn your Personal Trainer Certificate and Associate Degree in Applied Exercise and Fitness you can transfer these credits directly into the Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Nutrition Management. If you already obtained college credit or an associate degree from another accredited school, we’ll accept as many credits as possible to accelerate your completion time.

Hear from Our Successful Graduates

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“I decided to choose Bryan University Online because it was an accelerated course and the scope of the curriculum rivaled anything I had looked at previously.”
–Shane Hunnicutt, BU Graduate
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“I’ve never met a group who care about students the way the instructors do at Bryan. It was an awesome experience.”
–Brandon Granger, BU Graduate

Pagination Testimonials

Meet Your Program Faculty

Dr. Justin Harper
Dr. Justin Harper, EdD, CPT, PES
Program Director, Bryan University

Degrees earned:

  • Grand Canyon University: Doctorate in Organizational Leadership w/emphasis in Behavioral Health Education
  • University of South Dakota: Masters in Health and Recreation w/emphasis in Exercise Science
  • University of South Dakota: Bachelors in Health, Recreation, and Physical Education

Certification(s):

  • Certified Personal Trainer (NASM) and Performance Enhancement Specialist (NASM)

Contributions to the fitness field:

  • Serve on a per diem basis as a content expert helping to write test questions for the National Academy of Sports Medicine and personal train clients looking to improve their health.

Areas of interest/specialties within the fitness industry:

  • Online/virtual personal training

Personal interests outside of fitness:

  • Playing basketball, listening to music, and am a huge football fan. Go 49ers!!
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Dr. Justin Harper
Dr. Justin Harper, EdD, CPT, PES Program Director, Bryan University

Degrees earned:

  • Grand Canyon University: Doctorate in Organizational Leadership w/emphasis in Behavioral Health Education
  • University of South Dakota: Masters in Health and Recreation w/emphasis in Exercise Science
  • University of South Dakota: Bachelors in Health, Recreation, and Physical Education

Certification(s):

  • Certified Personal Trainer (NASM) and Performance Enhancement Specialist (NASM)

Contributions to the fitness field:

  • Serve on a per diem basis as a content expert helping to write test questions for the National Academy of Sports Medicine and personal train clients looking to improve their health.

Areas of interest/specialties within the fitness industry:

  • Online/virtual personal training

Personal interests outside of fitness:

  • Playing basketball, listening to music, and am a huge football fan. Go 49ers!!
Kyle Thompson
Kyle Thompson
Assistant Program Director, Bryan University

Degree(s) earned:

  • Northeastern University - Master’s in Nutrition
  • Kansas State University - Bachelor's in Exercise Physiology

Certification(s):

  • NSCA - CSCS
  • ACSM - CPT
  • CF - L1

Contributions to the fitness field:

  • 13+ years coaching and training in a plethora of realms including; Powerlifting, BodyBuilding, Strength and Conditioning, and post rehabilitation.
  • 7+ years of nutrition and exercise instructing at the collegiate level
  • Co-Host of The Optimal Human Podcast. A podcast exploring the many realms of human health and performance.
  • 7+ years of online coaching

Areas of interest/specialties within the fitness industry:

  • Nutrition Physiology
  • Nutrition for Performance
  • Exercise Physiology

Personal interests outside of fitness:

  • Nutrition and disease mitigation
  • Wrenching on classic muscle cars
  • Digital production

Anything you would want students to know about you:

  • If you have me in class, expect a relaxed and inviting environment. I am just a normal guy who spends a lot of time reading and learning about things that interest me. I enjoy passing on any and all knowledge. So, don’t hesitate to ask questions. I’ll answer if I can or I will point you in the direction to find the answer.

Favorite quote:

  • “For the great enemy of truth is very often not the lie--deliberate, contrived and dishonest--but the myth--persistent, persuasive, and unrealistic. Too often we hold fast to the cliches of our forebears. We subject all facts to a prefabricated set of interpretations. We enjoy the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought.” - JFK

This quote can be applied to all aspects of life. Explore the why behind the opinion.

read more
Kyle Thompson
Kyle Thompson Assistant Program Director, Bryan University

Degree(s) earned:

  • Northeastern University - Master’s in Nutrition
  • Kansas State University - Bachelor's in Exercise Physiology

Certification(s):

  • NSCA - CSCS
  • ACSM - CPT
  • CF - L1

Contributions to the fitness field:

  • 13+ years coaching and training in a plethora of realms including; Powerlifting, BodyBuilding, Strength and Conditioning, and post rehabilitation.
  • 7+ years of nutrition and exercise instructing at the collegiate level
  • Co-Host of The Optimal Human Podcast. A podcast exploring the many realms of human health and performance.
  • 7+ years of online coaching

Areas of interest/specialties within the fitness industry:

  • Nutrition Physiology
  • Nutrition for Performance
  • Exercise Physiology

Personal interests outside of fitness:

  • Nutrition and disease mitigation
  • Wrenching on classic muscle cars
  • Digital production

Anything you would want students to know about you:

  • If you have me in class, expect a relaxed and inviting environment. I am just a normal guy who spends a lot of time reading and learning about things that interest me. I enjoy passing on any and all knowledge. So, don’t hesitate to ask questions. I’ll answer if I can or I will point you in the direction to find the answer.

Favorite quote:

  • “For the great enemy of truth is very often not the lie--deliberate, contrived and dishonest--but the myth--persistent, persuasive, and unrealistic. Too often we hold fast to the cliches of our forebears. We subject all facts to a prefabricated set of interpretations. We enjoy the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought.” - JFK

This quote can be applied to all aspects of life. Explore the why behind the opinion.

Kate Timp
Kate Timp
Lead Faculty, Bryan University

Degree(s) earned: 

  • BS Finance, Arizona State University
  • MS Exercise and Wellness, Arizona State University

Certification(s):

  • Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM)

Contributions to the fitness field:

  • I qualified for and ran the 2011 Boston Marathon after 4 failed attempts at qualifying. Personal and Group training business owner.

Areas of interest/specialties within the fitness industry:

  • Nutrition, kettlebell training, yoga

Personal interests outside of fitness:

  • Watch my sons play baseball

What I want my students to know about me:

  • I love teaching and am 100% vested in your success!
read more
Kate Timp
Kate Timp Lead Faculty, Bryan University

Degree(s) earned: 

  • BS Finance, Arizona State University
  • MS Exercise and Wellness, Arizona State University

Certification(s):

  • Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM)

Contributions to the fitness field:

  • I qualified for and ran the 2011 Boston Marathon after 4 failed attempts at qualifying. Personal and Group training business owner.

Areas of interest/specialties within the fitness industry:

  • Nutrition, kettlebell training, yoga

Personal interests outside of fitness:

  • Watch my sons play baseball

What I want my students to know about me:

  • I love teaching and am 100% vested in your success!

Pagination Testimonials

Meet Your General Education Faculty

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Valerie Akbulut Instructor, Bryan University

MA in Interpersonal Communication, University of Central Florida; MA in Multicultural Communication, DePaul University; BA in Journalism, Integrated Communications: Public Relations and Advertising, Butler University

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Valerie Akbulut portrait
Valerie Akbulut Instructor, Bryan University

MA in Interpersonal Communication, University of Central Florida; MA in Multicultural Communication, DePaul University; BA in Journalism, Integrated Communications: Public Relations and Advertising, Butler University

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Kelly Baker Instructor, Bryan University

DPA in Public Administration from West Chester University; MA in Communication Studies from West Chester University and BA in Communications from Immaculata University

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Kelly Baker portrait
Kelly Baker Instructor, Bryan University

DPA in Public Administration from West Chester University; MA in Communication Studies from West Chester University and BA in Communications from Immaculata University

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Emily Chaffin Instructor, Bryan University

MA in English, Arkansas State University; BA in English, Faulkner University

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Emily Chaffin Instructor, Bryan University

MA in English, Arkansas State University; BA in English, Faulkner University

Pagination Testimonials

Program Learning Outcomes

Following the completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Comprehensively identify and understand the structure and function of all systems of the human body.
  • Critically analyze research and reasoning to identify gaps in the fitness industry in order to uncover a business opportunity.
  • Create, utilize, and interpret health screening forms and identify other client contraindications.
  • Prescribe appropriate fitness programs as well as proper rest and recovery to clients.
  • Obtain the knowledge, literacy, and ability necessary to take on leadership roles within the fitness industry.
  • Develop a comprehensive breadth and depth of nutrition and digestion.
  • Effectively solve for and structure guides for a wide range of clientele on how to make sound nutritional decisions.
Expand

Explore Exercise, Fitness, and Nutrition Courses

  • FNM-400, 3.0 credits
    Business Ethics and Entrepreneurship
    This course provides students with the tools necessary to examine moral problems and make effective decisions on ethical issues faced in the fitness workplace. This course also provides insight into how to search for something new in the fitness field and how to exploit that idea into a gainful opportunity.
    expand details
  • FNM-320, 3.0 credits
    Rest and Recovery Strategies
    This course provides insight into the importance of proper rest between workouts, the benefits of adequate sleep, and the application of rest and recovery modalities.
    expand details
  • FNM-330, 3.0 credits
    Corrective Impairment Strategies
    This course is focused on a variety of corrective exercise screenings and strategies. Topics in this course include muscle imbalances, movement efficiency, injury prevention, and movement pattern improvement modalities.
    expand details
  • FNM-335, 3.0 credits
    Physical Activity and Nutrition Epidemiology
    This course provides students' knowledge of epidemiology and the effect it has on physical activity and nutrition among the population. It also provides advanced studies with specific health and disease states. Understanding the relationship of physical activity with health and disease is imperative.
    expand details
  • ECO-300S, 3.0 credits
    The Economics of Money
    The concept of money is powerful and it has evolved into an essential tool of the global economy. This course focuses on the relationship between money and economics. Topics include basic macroeconomic and microeconomic principles such as unemployment, inflation, business cycles, and emerging forms of money.
    expand details
  • FNM-405, 3.0 credits
    Application of Nutrition
    This course focuses on micro and macro nutrients and the practical application of making dietary recommendations to address common health concerns in order to provide nutritional coaching safely and effectively to a variety of clients.
    expand details

Pagination Testimonials

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A legacy of graduate success since 1940.

Accreditation & Approvals

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Benefits for You

Included in Tuition

As a Bryan University student, you’ll receive these benefits and services included in tuition at no extra cost.

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    Industry Certifications & Credentials

    Prepare for third-party certifications – one certification exam attempt paid for by the university.

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    Electronic Books & Courseware

    We give you easy access to your e-textbooks and software.

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    Tutoring & Academic Support

    Our tutors and academic staff provide personalized support whenever you need it.

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    School Starter Kit

    You’ll receive a starter package to ensure you’re ready to succeed in your program.

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    Accelerated Programs & No Waiting Lists

    Finish in the shortest time possible and never get wait-listed for course registration.

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    Refresher Classes

    As a graduate, audit previously completed courses free to keep your skills sharp.

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    Personal Success Coach

    You'll receive dedicated support to help you succeed in and out of the classroom.

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    Career Services

    Get expert help to ensure you're job-ready and connect with employers.

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    Mentoring from Expert Faculty

    Learn from faculty with real-world experience in their field.

Highly Recommended by Students & Grads

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Why Learn Online

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Flexible & Convenient

We recognize that life can be busy and complex, so we’ve designed the learning experience around you. You have the option to complete your homework assignments online each week at days and times convenient to you. You have the flexibility to resubmit homework to improve your grades and gain greater mastery of the course content.

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Learn Faster & Retain More

We provide you with user-friendly learning technology such as adaptive digital textbooks and simulated job tasks to help you learn faster, easier, and retain more knowledge. All your efforts are recorded so you can track your progress and plan your time more effectively.

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Live Classes & Academic Support

Studying online with Bryan lets you learn from the comfort of home while connecting you in live events with peers, teachers, industry professionals, and mentors. If you happen to miss the event, we record them so can you watch them later and not miss a beat. Whenever you need help with an assignment, you can schedule a tutor at any time online with the click of a button.

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Connect with Peers, Faculty & Industry Experts

At Bryan, we don’t think learning online means learning alone. Connect with faculty, peers, and student support conveniently from your smartphone, tablet, or computer using Zoom, a user-friendly video app. You’ll join a vibrant community that includes industry experts who will provide support, expand your professional network, and celebrate your success along the way.

How You Learn Online

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Live Classes on Zoom

Most programs provide live classes that are also recorded in case you miss them and need to watch them later - click here for a list of live classes by program.

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Re-submit Homework for Mastery

Didn't get the grade you wanted? At Bryan U, you can resubmit your homework to improve your grades.

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User-Friendly Learning Technology

You'll learn using a program that adapts to your knowledge level while helping you learn faster and retain more.

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Share Your Interests

Engage with others in class using a social platform to share your thoughts on topics you're interested in.

BU Student Experience

Affording College

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Tuition Lock Guarantee

Bryan offers affordable tuition rates for all students, no matter where they reside. We don't differentiate between residents or non-residents. We also lock-in your tuition rate when you enroll, so you can rest assured that your tuition will never increase over the length of your program.

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Transfer Credits

If you apply to Bryan University with prior college credits and/or a degree, we’ll accept as many credits as possible to validate the hard work you’ve already completed. If you complete a Bryan U associate degree or undergraduate certificate, these credits are transferrable to a higher degree, such as a bachelor’s degree.

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Financial Aid if You Qualify

As an accredited institution, students of Bryan University who are residents of the United States may qualify for federal financial aid. Our team of dedicated financial advisors can also help you understand what other options are available to you. To learn about those who qualify, please visit our financial aid page.

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Active-Duty Military & Veterans

For students who are veterans or active-duty members of the U.S. military, you may also use your military educational benefits, if qualified. Please see our military benefits page for more details. You may also complete the Request Information form or call us at 888-721-9773 to receive immediate assistance.

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Tuition Rates Go Down the Longer You're in School

As you progress through each credential level (e.g., certificate to associate degree, or associate degree to bachelor's degree), your tuition decreases. Plus, your tuition is locked in once you enroll so that it never goes up as long as you remain continuously enrolled in good academic standing. For a current listing of Bryan University's tuition rates by program, please visit our tuition rates page.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to Bryan University, prospective students must complete the following requirements:

  • Earn a high school diploma or its equivalent.
  • Be at least 17 years of age. If a student is under the age of 18, they will be required to have a parent or legal guardian counter-sign enrollment forms.
  • Fill out the University’s Application and pay a $25 registration fee.
  • Pass a computer and internet speed assessment to ensure technology minimums are met. Please see the university’s course catalog to see detailed technology requirements.
  • Complete all required forms for admission.
  • For transfer credit evaluation, submit official transcripts from past colleges and universities attended.
  • Complete an online introductory course – “LaunchPad” – to demonstrate the ability to navigate online coursework.
  • Attend online orientation to meet your faculty and classmates.
  • For all healthcare, public health, and paralegal programs, applicants must complete and pass a required criminal background check, which is provided by the university.
  • Note that students applying to healthcare programs may need to identify a practicum site. The university provides a list of approved practicum sites and will support students in site selection.

To begin this process, we invite you to contact a member of our admissions team at 888-768-6861 or complete the Request Information form.

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