Exercise Science

Why study exercise science?

The exercise science major at Augustana University will cover a wide range of coursework and provide experiential learning opportunities that will prepare students for exciting career opportunities.

  • The major prepares students to make an immediate impact following graduation from master’s programs in athletic training, occupational therapy, chiropractic or strength & conditioning.
Exercise Science

Academics at AU

Beyond AU

Drew Heithoff '11, who double majored in exercise science and fitness management at AU, is a major league assistant performance coach for the Detroit Tigers. He creates programs and coaches players through in- and off-season corrective exercise, movement & speed skills, strength & power work and conditioning & recovering. He also helps oversee the Tigers' minor league strength staff. At AU, Heithoff was an infielder for the Augustana Baseball Team.


Related Programs of Study


Pre-Professional Programs


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Exercise Science, School of Health Professions


Latest News

Augustana University will offer a major in strength & conditioning beginning in the fall. Based within the School of Health Professions, the program is set to be the first in South Dakota accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE).

The Augustana University Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program — the university’s first doctorate program — welcomed its inaugural cohort in June and exceeded its enrollment goal by five students. The DPT program enrolled 85 students into the Class of 2025, and an additional six chose to defer to the cohort beginning in 2024.

Augustana University is excited to announce that its Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program has achieved ”candidate for accreditation” status from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).