Two students cooking in research kitchen-header
College of MedicineNutrition and Exercise PhysiologyBS NEP

Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology

The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology (BS NEP) provides an in-depth understanding of the roles of nutrition and exercise in health and disease. The BS NEP program is unique in that it seeks to provide a strong grounding in both nutrition and exercise science.

Students in the program learn to use nutrition and exercise as a form of medicine and as a wellness practice when working with patients and clients.

Because of the unique inclusion of both nutrition and exercise-focused curriculum, graduates can also competently conduct nutritional analyses and provide nutrition education to clients.
Get Certified as an Exercise Physiologist

Who You Are

With either track, students are eligible to take the Exercise Physiologist (EP) certification exam offered by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). ACSM EPs are qualified to pursue careers in university, corporate, commercial, hospital, and community settings. They are exercise specialists with the knowledge and skills necessary for conducting fitness assessments and interpreting results to prescribe appropriate, personalized exercise programs.

What You’ll Do

Career Paths

Get the tools you need to launch into a variety of successful careers. Many NEP graduates find related jobs promptly upon graduation. Employers include:

  • Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Clinics
  • Specialty Gyms, including those catering to Athletes
  • YMCAs
  • Strength and Conditioning Centers
  • Public Health Agencies
  • Health Care Facilities
  • Occupational Therapy Offices
  • Physical Therapy Offices
  • Medical Centers

Graduate School

The degree also provides foundational coursework for application to graduate school in areas such as dietetics through programs such as our MS Coordinated Program in Dietetics and medicine. The degree also fully prepares students for non-clinical graduate studies in the nutritional and exercise sciences.

fitness equipment

Our Curriculum

Students establish a strong science-based foundation in their junior year with courses such as Exercise Physiology, Macronutrient Metabolism, and Pathophysiology. They learn practical applications of content in courses like Strength Training & Conditioning and Food Preparation for Health Sciences. Application continues with Exercise Testing & Prescription and Nutritional Assessment.

Courses diversify in the senior year, including Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, Population Health, and Management & Facilities. Practical experience in the BS NEP is integral to preparing students for a successful career. In their senior year, students run the campus NEP Health and Fitness Clinic in which they practice their skills with community members. The final requirement for the degree is a 400-hour internship at a related site of the student’s choice.

Required Courses

Program Outcomes

Data includes for Academic Years 2021–2022 and 2022–2023.

89% of students who attempted the ACSM Exercise Physiology exam passed
92% of graduates promptly got jobs in the field and/or were accepted into graduate school
100% of employers surveyed are satisfied with BS NEP alumni as employees
100% of BS NEP alumni report being satisfied with their education

BS NEP Accreditation

CAAHEP Contact Information:
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
25400 US Highway 19 North, Suite 158
Clearwater, FL 33763
727-210-2350
caahep.org

Take the Next Step

Apply
Schedule a Tour
View All Programs