Program Overview
Lead the future of sports health with confidence. Begin your journey toward becoming a certified athletic trainer.
Our Exercise Science – Pre-Athletic Training major prepares you for an impactful career in athletic training by combining rigorous science-based academics with a clear pathway to advanced professional education. Offered through the Shaw School of Sciences, this comprehensive program is designed for students who are passionate about sports medicine, injury prevention, and human performance optimization.
Through an exclusive partnership with the University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences, Asbury students can earn two degrees in five years: a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science – Pre-Athletic Training from Asbury and a Master of Science in Athletic Training from UK. Students spend three years on Asbury’s campus completing foundational and major coursework, followed by two years at UK’s accredited graduate program, giving students a seamless transition into a professional athletic training career.
Please Note: Admission to the Master of Science in Athletic Training program at the University of Kentucky is competitive and not guaranteed. Students must meet all UK admissions requirements and are encouraged to apply early.
The 80-credit major integrates foundational biological and chemical sciences, psychological principles, and specialized exercise science courses to give students a robust and competitive academic background. Required courses include:
This academically rigorous program requires students to maintain a minimum 3.00 cumulative and science GPA and earn a “C” or better in all BIO, CHE, and EXS courses to remain on track.
This program is ideal for students with a strong interest in athletic training, physical therapy, sports medicine, and human performance. Graduates go on to serve athletes at all levels — from high school programs to professional teams — and may work in clinics, universities, hospitals, and military settings. Asbury’s emphasis on ethical leadership and holistic health ensures that students are not only professionally prepared, but personally grounded and ready to lead.
While the program includes a unique UK partnership, it also supports transfer to other accredited two-year professional athletic training programs for degree completion. Students can also pursue pre-athletic training prerequisites through other majors with faculty guidance, making it ideal for those exploring diverse health professions.
The training of a bachelor’s degree in exercise science opens entry-level career opportunities across the world of health, fitness and sports. Whether you’re interested in careers in fitness, wellness, education, healthcare, coaching, community outreach or elsewhere, you’ll be positioned and empowered to help people attain optimal health according to their goals and abilities.
Careers with a bachelor’s in exercise science include:
admissions@asbury.edu
(859) 858-5000