
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Degree: Pre-Athletic Training Emphasis
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The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Exercise Science with a Pre-Athletic Training emphasis at Grand Canyon University can help you enter the field of kinesiology. Offered by the College of Natural Sciences at GCU, this program is designed to teach you the foundational knowledge and skills to later translate to your career and may put you on the right path toward pursuing a master’s in athletic training degree.
This program lays a solid groundwork in exercise science, equipping you with essential principles, while immersing you in critical athletic training practices and subject matters. Through this on-campus program, you will study coursework and attend labs that cover various topics, including the following, to gain a well-rounded, STEM-focused education:
Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
In this degree program you’ll get a hands-on look at athletic training through a combination of theory-based courses and specified labs. You will experience a deep exploration of the relationship among kinesiology, exercise science and athletic training.
While completing your coursework, you will focus on competencies that can help you understand the breadth of the profession, including:
Grasping these competencies involves studying advanced healthcare topics, applying existing studies to practical scenarios and deeply comprehending human anatomy and how movement affects overall health.
The STEM programs at GCU integrate theoretical coursework with practical, interactive lab components, providing a comprehensive learning experience that enhances your grasp of the discipline.
Within this STEM degree, many of your courses will focus on science-related topics. The various sciences are directly applicable to pre-athletic training, including:
The BS in Exercise Science with an Emphasis in Pre-Athletic Training curriculum focuses on science, math and nutrition topics, while diving deeper into specific athletic training-related coursework and labs. Domains that you will cover in this program include the following:
GCU’s bachelor’s in exercise science with a pre-athletic training emphasis can prepare you to pursue graduate-level education, such as a master’s degree in athletic training. This program aims to provide you with a strong foundation and essential competencies, fostering your potential to pursue further educational opportunities.

This degree with a pre-athletic training focus can provide a solid preparation to pursue career pathways, such as an exercise physiologist. You may also explore a wide range of professional opportunities and find yourself employed in various settings, including but not limited to:
GCU is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an organization that provides a comprehensive review of education institutions. Pre-athletic training students can feel confident knowing that their curriculum meets the highest standards established by the HLC. Proper accreditation of a university speaks to the quality of the programs offered. To learn more about accreditation, visit our accreditation page.
Choosing a degree program and a career path can be challenging. You can use the following frequently asked questions and answers to get started on your career research.
What is exercise science and pre-athletic training?
Is pre-athletic training a pre-med degree?
How many years does it take to become an athletic trainer?
Are sports medicine and athletic training the same?

Take the next step toward pre-athletic training opportunities by earning your bachelor of science in exercise science. Work toward making a positive impact on the lives of athletes and individuals engaged in physical activity by filling out the form at the top of the page.