The nationally accredited bachelor’s degree program in exercise science from PennWest Global Online earned the No. 1 ranking in the U.S. from a top program analytics website.

 

This month, EduMed– a leading higher-education healthcare consultant – praised PennWest for accreditation, internship opportunities and practical and theory method delivery in the Best Online Exercise Science Degree Programs of 2023.

 

“As we begin the collaboration between our sister campuses, it’s an exciting step to recognize both our traditions and infusion into the Global Online programming,” said Dr. Erinn Lake, vice president for Strategic Enrollment and Global Online Advancement “This recognition celebrates our collective achievements in developing a program that best prepares students for careers in exercise science.”

 

PennWest Global Online offers four tracks of exercise science programming at the bachelor’s degree level, including exercise physiology, human performance and wellness, nutrition and fitness and professional golf management.

 

Upon completing the degree in exercise science, graduates can apply for certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine(NASM) and the National Association of Speed and Explosion.

 

Synchronous and asynchronous online methods deliver class lectures in practice and theory. Upper division courses include studies in sport psychology, kinesiology, wellness, leadership, evaluating fitness, and fitness for special populations.

 

Small class sizes in the exercise science programs mean professors know students by name and will serve as mentors as students develop the knowledge and skills to plan and implement exercise, health and wellness programs for a variety of populations.

 

Students will have the opportunity to spend a full semester—600 hours—getting hands-on experience in a setting that is aligned with their career goals.

 

EduMed ranks colleges across the U.S. for their programs according to affordability, flexibility and the accreditation needed to seek certification and or licensure after graduating.

 

PennWest’s programs earned the top spot on the list ahead of nationally recognized programs from Florida Atlantic University, University of Kansas, University of Northern Colorado and University of Louisiana at Monroe –which round out the top five.

 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that jobs for physical therapists, exercise physiologists, fitness trainers and instructors will grow faster than most occupations between now and 2026.

 

In addition to the EduMed ranking, PennWest Global Online’s exercise science program, which originated at the California campus, also earned OnlineU’s No. 5 rank for Best Online Exercise Science.

 

OnlineU's program rankings compare the real-world outcomes of online school alumni. The online ratings source evaluates online programs based on alumni salaries to help prospective students determine which online degree programs would be the best long-term financial investment.

 

To learn more about PennWest’s Global Online programs and additional awards and rankings, visit online.pennwest.edu.