Contact the Exercise Science Department
Department Phone
480-461-7551
This program is part of the Exercise Science Department.

Are you fascinated with kinesiology and how the body’s muscle groups work together? Do you want to motivate and help transform people into better versions of themselves? Or do you want to help heal athletes from sports-related injuries? If you answered yes to any of these questions, consider joining the Exercise Science program.
We offer two different paths in the Exercise Science program — Pre-Physical Therapy and Health, Fitness, and Sports Performance. Pre-Physical Therapy prepares those who wish to specialize in exercise science and kinesiology — and can receive continued education to begin careers in exercise directing, exercise physiology, occupational therapy, and even sports medicine. The Health, Fitness, and Sports Performance path prepares students for entry-level personal training positions within health and fitness clubs, wellness centers, and public and private recreation facilities. Upon graduating with an associate in the Exercise Science: Health, Fitness, and Sports Performance program, you will be prepared for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), and the American Council on Exercise (ACE) personal trainer certifications.
Make it happen! Get in motion today and enroll in our Exercise Science program.
The Right Pathway for You
MCC offers Certificates of Completion, Associate Degrees and Transfer Degrees for this program. Your interests and goals will guide you in selecting the pathway that is ideal for you. You may find a combination of certificates, degrees or transfer options is the fastest way to realize your dreams.
Certificates
The knowledge and skills acquired while earning a Certificate of Completion (CCL) can help launch you into a new career or energize your current job. Generally requiring fewer credit hours than degrees or transfer programs, a CCL may be your best first step into higher education.
Name | Type | Title | Courses |
---|---|---|---|
Certificate of Completion | CCL | Personal Training | Pathway Map |
Certificate of Completion | CCL | Personal Training: Advanced | Pathway Map |
Associate Degree
MCC’s associate degrees enhance your resume and prepare you to enter the workforce with an advantage. Whether you are interested in simply completing basic, required college courses or specializing in a specific area, there’s a degree for you.
Name | Type | Title | Courses |
---|---|---|---|
Associate in Applied Science | AAS | Exercise Science: Health, Fitness, and Sports Performance | Pathway Map |
University Transfer Degree
Want to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a university? Save money by starting at MCC in manageable, small classes taught by renowned faculty. Our transfer pathways with Arizona universities help you achieve two goals: completing an associate’s degree while also staying on track to earn a bachelor’s degree at your transfer destination. MCC’s university partnerships throughout the nation assure your seamless transition toward a four-year degree.
At MCC, get an... | Emphasis in... | Transfer to... | To get a... | Courses |
---|---|---|---|---|
Associate in Arts, Emphasis in Exercise Science | Exercise Science | Arizona State University (College of Health Solutions) |
Health Sciences (Healthy Lifestyles and Fitness Science) (Bachelor of Science) |
Pathway Map |
Arizona State University (College of Health Solutions) |
Sport Science and Performance Programming (Bachelor of Science) |
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Arizona State University (College of Health Solutions) |
Clinical Exercise Science (Bachelor of Science) |
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Arizona State University (College of Health Solutions) |
Kinesiology (Bachelor of Science) |
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Northern Arizona University |
Exercise Science (Bachelor of Science) |
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Northern Arizona University |
Fitness and Wellness (Bachelor of Science) |
Career Opportunities
Successful completion of a degree or certificate within the Exercise Science program may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Maricopa County-based annual median wages*. Some occupations may require additional education or training. You can click on any occupation to view more detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.
Athletic Trainers
$59,909 Show expanded career information for Athletic Trainers
Community Health Workers
$47,001 Show expanded career information for Community Health Workers
Exercise Physiologists
$56,071 Show expanded career information for Exercise Physiologists
Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors
$48,849 Show expanded career information for Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors
Health Educators
$48,884 Show expanded career information for Health Educators
Occupational Therapists
$79,867 Show expanded career information for Occupational Therapists
Physical Therapists
$92,656 Show expanded career information for Physical Therapists
Physician Assistants
$124,008 Show expanded career information for Physician Assistants
Financial Aid
You can get a high-quality, affordable education. MCC’s low tuition rates and various financial aid opportunities make it possible. Explore federal and state grants, Federal Work-Study, scholarships, student loans, and other options today.
Connect with an Advisor
Become a Student
Click here for MCC’s easy-to-use Enrollment Steps.
Before signing up for classes, you’ll want to connect with an academic advisor. Together, you’ll lay out an academic plan that suits you best. This step is essential to your academic success.
Resources For You
Get credit for your industry training. MCC offers Prior Learning Assessments (PLA) for students with existing industry certifications, licenses, and approved corporate training. Access the form below and attach proof of training/certification when you submit your request. Please note, in order to access and complete the PLA form, you must be an active MCC student and have an MEID.
Additional Resources