Human Performance
Manchester University’s Bachelor of Science in Human Performance degree is designed for the study of the practical applications of fitness. It includes health, wellness and sports-related disciplines such as personal training, strength and conditioning and fitness instruction.
Exercise Science Improves and Enhances Human Performance
Personal trainers teach people how to live more active—and healthier—lifestyles. Working as an exercise science professional, you are a trusted partner guiding clients to achieve their fitness goals.
Our hands-on exercise degree provides you with a complete understanding of structural anatomy, nutritional concepts and biomechanics. Additional exposure to clinical science and rehabilitation science principles, helps you develop refined techniques to prescribe and teach exercises based on your client’s objectives and abilities.
In-depth experiential learning through practicums and internships is the cornerstone of MU’s human performance program. You’ll work alongside other students and faculty on practical application and simulation.
With state-of-the-art technology, you’ll also be prepared to take the Certified Strength and Conditioning (CSCS) exam from the National Strength and Conditioning Association before graduation.
Program Information:
Major | BS
- 54 Credit Hours
Location
- North Manchester
Accreditation and Recognition
The National Strength and Conditioning Association officially recognizes Manchester University’s Strength and Conditioning Program for successfully meeting established criteria
What I like best about the Human Performance program is the knowledge that the professors have. The experience that they give us with giving their time is far and above anything else you’d find at a bigger university.
Bryan Hemp, Human Performance, Class of 2024
Why Choose MU for Human Performance?
Experiential Learning
MU’s state-of-the-art human performance lab for exercise physiology and prescription gives you the hands-on training to excel. Our strength and conditioning and personal training courses include access to PERCH velocity-based training. PERCH is the MIT-developed, intuitive performance training solution preferred by clinical science and rehabilitation science professionals.
Exceptional faculty
The faculty members of our exercise science programs hold advanced degrees, are highly credentialed and have decades of experience. Working one-on-one with students, they will guide you on the best path to achieve your individual career goals.
Industry-Specific Training
Part of your personal training courses includes practicum and internships. Under the supervision of faculty in Manchester’s NSCA Educationally Recognized Program (ERP), you’ll design and execute health and wellness plans for real clients while building a pathway toward the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) credential.
Small Class Sizes
The student-to-teacher ratio of courses in our programs is 20:1. Hands-on learning opportunities have even lower ratios to provide for optimal faculty oversight and direction.
What You Can Do with Your Human Performance Degree
Personal trainer
Guides clients through fitness routines
Athletic director
Oversees sports programs and staff
Exercise physiologists
Develops fitness plans for health needs
Physical therapist assistant
Aids patients in physical recovery
Average Starting Salary for Human Performance Degree Holders
Salary.com reports an annual salary range of $46,828 and $79,746 for personal trainers in Indiana, with an annual average of $64,914. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 10 percent growth rate for exercise science-related jobs through 2032, a rate much faster than average.
Earning a master’s degree expands your career opportunities – 98% of MU Human Performance graduates are accepted into their graduate school of choice.
About the Human Performance Program
Your personal training courses and other classes are aligned with earning the credentials you’ll need to pursue industry roles. Lecture and lab learning is industry-specific and taught by instructors who know what it takes to succeed. The comprehensive curriculum includes:
- Introduction to Rehabilitation Sciences
- Individual and Dual Performance Training
- Fundamentals of Human Physiology w/Lab
- Introduction to Human Nutrition
- Principles of Coaching
- Functional Kinesiology
Take the next step toward earning your degree. We have the resources to help you get started.
All Manchester University’s exercise science degrees are Educational Recognized Programs (ERP) with the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Additionally, we are in the process of securing accreditation by the Council on Accreditation for Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE).
If your goal is to earn your bachelor’s degree in three years, Manchester University’s Fast Forward program may be the right fit. As a Fast Forward student, you can complete most majors through a combination of AP/dual credit and individualized academic advising. In addition to the first-year requirements, you’ll also be required to:
- Select a specific major.
- Apply by May 1 prior to the beginning of first-year classes.
Meet the Faculty
Sydney Tillman, MS, RDN, LD
Assistant Professor of Nutrition
PERC 214M
Joshua Brock, MAE, MA, CSCS
Assistant Professor of Exercise Science
PERC 214B
Jeff Beer, Ph.D., ATC
Professor of Exercise Science and Chair of the Dept of Exercise Science
PERC 214C
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Non-Discrimination in the Admission Process
Manchester University is committed to non-discrimination in campus life. The University does not discriminate on the basis of national origin, ancestry, race, color, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, familial status, religion, disability or veteran status in admissions or any area of campus life, including its educational programs, scholarships and loan awards, residence life programs, athletic programs, extracurricular programs, promotion and tenure policies and practice, and alumni affairs.
Manchester University is committed to carry out the provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans With Disabilities Act, which provide for accessibility of University programs to the physically disabled.