Megan DeRoos is pursuing her dream of academic excellence while still being a mom thanks to a CWI Foundation scholarship.
Read more about Scholarship Makes Dreams a RealityExercise Science
Where Science, Movement, and the Human Body Meet. Forge a Dynamic Career.
Program Overview
Are you passionate about health, fitness, and helping others achieve their physical best? College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Exercise Science Associate of Science degree opens doors to exciting careers in biomechanics, exercise physiology, personal training, physical therapy, and research. This program is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and society by deepening your understanding of the human body and movement.
You will develop fundamental skills in human anatomy, physiology, biology, health, motion analysis, and training prescription. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and direct application of knowledge to real-world issues in areas such as motor learning, human health, and performance training. Upon completing the program, you will be well-prepared to sit for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Personal Trainer certification, equipping you with the credentials to make a significant impact in the field of exercise science.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Science
Time to Complete
2 years
Primary Locations
Learning Opportunities
- Practical Application of Knowledge: Apply classroom learning to relevant cases in the field, enhancing your practical skills.
- Certified Personal Trainer Preparation: Be ready to take the ACSM Certified Personal Trainer exam at the end of your degree program.
- Internship Opportunities: Gain the opportunity to pursue internships, including with a US Olympic team.
- Seamless Transfer to University Programs: Enjoy perfect transferability to kinesiology programs at universities like Boise State University.
- Real-World Skills Development: Develop practical skills in applied labs, preparing you for real challenges in the exercise science field.
Area of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Exercise Science – Associate of Science Degree
Career Opportunities
Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors
Instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise. Excludes “Educational Instruction and Library Occupations” (25-0000), “Coaches and Scouts” (27-2022), and “Athletic Trainers” (29-9091).
281
Annual Openings*
$17.70
Hourly Median Wage*
$36,816
Annual Median Salary
30.9%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Study the chemical composition or physical principles of living cells and organisms, their electrical and mechanical energy, and related phenomena. May conduct research to further understanding of the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. May determine the effects of foods, drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on tissues and vital processes of living organisms.
13
Annual Openings*
$51.72
Hourly Median Wage*
$107,578
Annual Median Salary
26.37%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Education Administrators, All Other
All education administrators not listed separately.
8
Annual Openings*
$36.51
Hourly Median Wage*
$75,941
Annual Median Salary
45.51%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Athletic Trainers
Evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses. Provide preventive, therapeutic, emergency, and rehabilitative care. Excludes “Physical Therapists” (29-1123).
7
Annual Openings*
$22.94
Hourly Median Wage*
$47,715
Annual Median Salary
33.5%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Exercise Physiologists
Assess, plan, or implement fitness programs that include exercise or physical activities such as those designed to improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, or flexibility. Excludes “Physical Therapists” (29-1123), “Athletic Trainers” (29-9091), and “Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors” (39-9031).
3
Annual Openings*
$27.05
Hourly Median Wage*
$56,264
Annual Median Salary
14.74%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Exercise Science as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Idaho Launch
Are you a 2024 Idaho high school graduate? Learn how to get up to $8,000 of your tuition and fees covered at CWI through Idaho LAUNCH.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
News
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Read more about CWI Clubs Enjoy Olympic ExperienceCWI will welcome a collection of elite athletes and sports professionals to campus, April 24, for insight into the world of sports and business.
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