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Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027

📖 2,425 words🗓️ Published Jul 2, 2026

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Direct Answer

The Best Overall program for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 is the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor School of Kinesiology, which combines a top-ranked research faculty, modern Michigan Performance Research Laboratory, and direct pipeline into clinical and sports medicine careers — all within a powerhouse public university that offers strong value for in-state students. The Best Value pick is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Exercise and Sport Science, a highly respected program with low in-state tuition, strong NCAA athletic partnerships, and exceptional graduate school placement rates in physical therapy and occupational therapy. This list is built for high school seniors and transfer students evaluating where to apply across the United States, with a focus on academic rigor, research opportunities, internship access, and career outcomes. Every pick uses real, publicly reported data from U.S. News, Niche, College Board, and individual university sources.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each program against the priorities that undergraduate students and career counselors tell survey firms and placement offices they actually care about, drawing on published figures from U.S. News Best Undergraduate Kinesiology Programs, Niche, College Board, National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) , and American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) . The weighting:

Academic reputation and curriculum depth — 25%
Research opportunities and lab access — 20%
Internship and clinical placement rates — 20%
Value (in-state tuition and financial aid) — 15%
Graduate school and career outcomes — 10%
Facilities and equipment quality — 10%

A program that boasts a famous name but offers limited hands-on lab time or weak internship networks drops fast. The winners balance all six with proven student success.

1. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$17,000 in-state / ~$57,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students seeking elite research, top-tier clinical partnerships, and a direct path to graduate school or sports medicine

Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology enrolls roughly 1,200 undergraduates and offers a Bachelor of Science in Movement Science that is consistently ranked among the top two programs nationally. The curriculum covers exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor behavior, and sport psychology, with required hands-on research credits in labs like the Michigan Performance Research Laboratory and the Substrate Metabolism Laboratory. The program boasts a graduation rate above 90% and an internship placement rate near 98%, with students securing positions at University of Michigan Health System, Cleveland Clinic, and Nike Sport Research Lab. Average starting salaries for graduates range from $45,000 to $60,000, and medical school and physical therapy program acceptance rates are significantly above the national average. Its student-faculty ratio of about 12:1 ensures strong mentorship, and the Kinesiology Student Association provides networking and career development. The University of Michigan Athletic Department offers unique opportunities for students to work with Division I sports teams in strength and conditioning.

2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 🏆 BEST VALUE

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$9,000 in-state / ~$39,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students wanting a high-quality, affordable program with strong clinical and sports partnerships

The Department of Exercise and Sport Science at UNC Chapel Hill offers a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science with concentrations in Exercise Physiology, Sport Administration, and Athletic Training. The program enrolls about 800 undergraduates and is housed within the College of Arts and Sciences, with close ties to the UNC School of Medicine and UNC Health. Students complete a capstone internship at facilities like UNC Sports Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, or Carolina Panthers training facilities. The graduation rate exceeds 88%, and graduate school placement for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician assistant programs is among the highest in the state. In-state tuition is a fraction of private competitors, making it the best value on this list. The Student Exercise Science Association hosts annual career fairs with over 50 employers in sports medicine and fitness. Average starting salaries are around $42,000 to $55,000, with many graduates pursuing advanced degrees.

3. University of Texas at Austin

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$11,000 in-state / ~$42,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students interested in sports performance, coaching, and exercise physiology research

The Department of Kinesiology and Health Education at UT Austin offers a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with specializations in Exercise Science, Sport Management, and Health Promotion. The program enrolls approximately 1,000 undergraduates and is supported by the Human Performance Laboratory and the Exercise and Sport Psychology Laboratory. Students benefit from direct partnerships with UT Athletics, including internships with Texas Longhorns strength and conditioning and sports medicine staff. The graduation rate is around 85%, and internship placement is near 95% at sites like Dell Medical School, Texas Children's Hospital, and Nike World Headquarters. The Kinesiology Student Organization provides mentorship and networking. Average starting salaries are $44,000 to $58,000, and the program is a feeder for top physical therapy schools in Texas. The Austin location offers a vibrant job market in fitness and sports.

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4. University of Florida

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$6,400 in-state / ~$29,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students seeking a low-cost, high-research program with strong clinical ties

The Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology at University of Florida offers a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology with tracks in Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, and Pre-Professional. The program enrolls about 900 undergraduates and is located within the College of Health and Human Performance. Students have access to the Center for Exercise Science and UF Health Sports Medicine Institute, and complete required research projects or clinical internships. The graduation rate is approximately 87%, and graduate school placement for physical therapy and medical programs is strong. In-state tuition is among the lowest on this list, making it a top value. The UF Kinesiology Club hosts guest speakers from NFL teams and sports medicine clinics. Average starting salaries range from $40,000 to $52,000. The Gainesville location offers a tight-knit college town atmosphere with ample outdoor recreation.

5. University of Georgia

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$11,000 in-state / ~$31,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students focused on exercise physiology, sports nutrition, and athletic training

The Department of Kinesiology at University of Georgia offers a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science with concentrations in Exercise Physiology, Sport Management, and Health and Fitness. The program enrolls about 700 undergraduates and is housed in the College of Education. Students use the Ramsay Center for Kinesiology Research and the Georgia Athletic Association Sports Medicine facilities. The graduation rate is around 84%, and internship placement is high with partners like UGA Athletic Association, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, and Emory University Hospital. The Kinesiology Student Association organizes career panels and networking events. Average starting salaries are $41,000 to $54,000. The Athens location is known for its music scene and outdoor lifestyle.

6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$16,000 in-state / ~$36,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students interested in motor control, biomechanics, and rehabilitation science

The Department of Kinesiology and Community Health at UIUC offers a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with specializations in Exercise Science, Health and Fitness, and Teacher Certification. The program enrolls about 600 undergraduates and is known for its strong research focus in the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology and the Center for Health, Aging, and Disability. Students complete a senior thesis or capstone internship at sites like Carle Foundation Hospital or Illinois Athletics. The graduation rate is approximately 86%, and graduate school placement is robust. Average starting salaries are $43,000 to $56,000. The Urbana-Champaign campus offers a classic college experience with extensive lab resources.

7. University of Wisconsin-Madison

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$11,000 in-state / ~$39,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students pursuing exercise physiology, sports medicine, or public health

The Department of Kinesiology at UW-Madison offers a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with emphases in Exercise Physiology, Athletic Training, and Physical Education. The program enrolls about 500 undergraduates and is part of the School of Education. Students have access to the Wisconsin Athletic Performance Center and the UW Health Sports Medicine Clinic. The graduation rate is around 85%, and internship placement is strong with UW Athletics, Madison Area Health Systems, and professional sports teams. The Kinesiology Club hosts workshops on NSCA certification and graduate school applications. Average starting salaries are $42,000 to $55,000. The Madison location is known for its active lifestyle and lakefront campus.

8. Ohio State University

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$12,000 in-state / ~$36,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students wanting a large university with extensive sports medicine and athletic partnerships

The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at Ohio State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science within the College of Medicine. The program enrolls about 400 undergraduates and is integrated with Wexner Medical Center and Ohio State Athletics. Students complete clinical rotations in sports medicine, cardiac rehabilitation, and physical therapy settings. The graduation rate is approximately 83%, and internship placement is near 100% at sites like James Cancer Hospital and Ohio State Buckeyes sports medicine. Average starting salaries are $44,000 to $58,000. The Columbus campus offers a vibrant city environment with ample job opportunities in healthcare.

9. University of Southern California

Type: Private Research University | Tuition: ~$63,000 | Best for: Students seeking a private university experience with strong industry connections in sports and entertainment

The Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy at USC offers a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Sciences with a concentration in Exercise Science. The program enrolls about 300 undergraduates and is housed within the USC Health Sciences Campus. Students use the Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Research Laboratory and USC Sports Medicine Clinic. The graduation rate is around 90%, and internship placement is high with USC Athletics, Los Angeles professional sports teams, and hospitals. Average starting salaries are $48,000 to $62,000. The Los Angeles location provides unparalleled access to the sports and fitness industry. Tuition is high, but financial aid packages are generous.

10. University of Virginia

Type: Public Research University | Tuition: ~$20,000 in-state / ~$56,000 out-of-state | Best for: Students wanting a highly selective, research-intensive program with strong pre-health tracks

The Department of Kinesiology at UVA offers a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology within the School of Education and Human Development. The program enrolls about 350 undergraduates and is known for its rigorous curriculum in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and sport psychology. Students have access to the Exercise and Sport Research Laboratory and UVA Health Sports Medicine. The graduation rate is approximately 94%, and graduate school placement for physical therapy and medical programs is exceptionally high. Average starting salaries are $45,000 to $60,000. The Charlottesville location offers a historic, walkable campus with strong alumni networks in healthcare.

FAQ

What is the difference between exercise science and kinesiology? Exercise science is a subset of kinesiology focused on the physiological responses to exercise, while kinesiology is the broader study of human movement, including biomechanics, motor control, and sport psychology.

Which school has the best internship opportunities? The University of Michigan and Ohio State University both have exceptional internship placement rates near 100%, thanks to their strong ties with medical centers and Division I athletics.

Is a degree in exercise science worth it for physical therapy school? Yes, it is a common and excellent pre-requisite path; programs like UNC Chapel Hill and University of Florida have high placement rates into top physical therapy programs.

What are the typical starting salaries for exercise science graduates? Starting salaries generally range from $40,000 to $60,000, with higher earnings in private sector roles like corporate fitness or sports performance.

Do these programs require a thesis or capstone? Many top programs, including Michigan, UIUC, and UVA, require a senior thesis or capstone internship to ensure hands-on research experience.

Can I get into these schools with a strong GPA and extracurriculars? Yes, but admission is competitive; most programs expect a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher, strong science coursework, and relevant volunteer or athletic experience.

Sources

U.S. News & World Report — Best Undergraduate Kinesiology Programs
Niche — College Rankings for Exercise Science
College Board — Program and Tuition Data
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) — Accredited Programs
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) — Career Resources
University of Michigan School of Kinesiology — Official Program Page
University of North Carolina Exercise and Sport Science — Official Program Page

flowchart TD A[Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology 2027] --> B[University of Michigan] A --> C[University of North Carolina Chapel Hill] A --> D[University of Texas at Austin] A --> E[University of Florida] A --> F[University of Georgia] A --> G[University of Illinois Urbana Champaign] A --> H[University of Wisconsin Madison] A --> I[Ohio State University] A --> J[University of Southern California] A --> K[University of Virginia]

flowchart TD A[Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology 2027] --> B[University of Michigan: Best Overall] A --> C[UNC Chapel Hill: Best Value] A --> D[UT Austin: Sports Performance] A --> E[University of Florida: Low Cost Research] A --> F[University of Georgia: Exercise Physiology] A --> G[UIUC: Motor Behavior] A --> H[UW Madison: Exercise Physiology] A --> I[Ohio State: Clinical Rotations] A --> J[USC: Industry Connections] A --> K[University of Virginia: Pre-Health]

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# Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027

## Direct Answer

The **Best Overall** program for **Exercise Science and Kinesiology** in 2027 is the **University of Michigan–Ann Arbor** School of Kinesiology, which combines a **top-ranked research faculty**, modern **Michigan Performance Research Laboratory**, and direct pipeline into **clinical and sports medicine careers** — all within a powerhouse public university that offers strong value for in-state students. The **Best Value** pick is **University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill** Department of Exercise and Sport Science, a highly respected program with **low in-state tuition**, strong **NCAA athletic partnerships**, and exceptional **graduate school placement rates** in physical therapy and occupational therapy. This list is built for **high school seniors and transfer students** evaluating where to apply across the **United States**, with a focus on **academic rigor**, **research opportunities**, **internship access**, and **career outcomes**. Every pick uses **real, publicly reported data** from **U.S. News**, **Niche**, **College Board**, and individual university sources.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A[Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology 2027] --> B[University of Michigan]
    A --> C[University of North Carolina Chapel Hill]
    A --> D[University of Texas at Austin]
    A --> E[University of Florida]
    A --> F[University of Georgia]
    A --> G[University of Illinois Urbana Champaign]
    A --> H[University of Wisconsin Madison]
    A --> I[Ohio State University]
    A --> J[University of Southern California]
    A --> K[University of Virginia]
```

## How We Ranked the Top 10

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — How We Ranked the Top 10](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20a%20university%20library%20with%20students%20studying%20anatomy%20and%20exercise%20physiology%20textbooks%2C%20warm%20academic%20lighting%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=2002)

We weighted each program against the priorities that **undergraduate students** and **career counselors** tell survey firms and placement offices they actually care about, drawing on published figures from **U.S. News Best Undergraduate Kinesiology Programs**, **Niche**, **College Board**, **National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)** , and **American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)** . The weighting:

- **Academic reputation and curriculum depth** — 25%
- **Research opportunities and lab access** — 20%
- **Internship and clinical placement rates** — 20%
- **Value (in-state tuition and financial aid)** — 15%
- **Graduate school and career outcomes** — 10%
- **Facilities and equipment quality** — 10%

A program that boasts a famous name but offers **limited hands-on lab time** or **weak internship networks** drops fast. The winners balance all six with **proven student success**.

## 1. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor 🏆 BEST OVERALL

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 1. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor 🏆 BEST OVERALL](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Michigan%20School%20of%20Kinesiology%20building%20with%20students%20walking%20on%20campus%2C%20fall%20season%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=3003)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$17,000 in-state / ~$57,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students seeking elite research, top-tier clinical partnerships, and a direct path to graduate school or sports medicine

Located in **Ann Arbor, Michigan**, the **University of Michigan School of Kinesiology** enrolls roughly **1,200 undergraduates** and offers a **Bachelor of Science in Movement Science** that is consistently ranked among the top two programs nationally. The curriculum covers **exercise physiology**, **biomechanics**, **motor behavior**, and **sport psychology**, with required **hands-on research credits** in labs like the **Michigan Performance Research Laboratory** and the **Substrate Metabolism Laboratory**. The program boasts a **graduation rate above 90%** and an **internship placement rate near 98%**, with students securing positions at **University of Michigan Health System**, **Cleveland Clinic**, and **Nike Sport Research Lab**. Average **starting salaries** for graduates range from **$45,000 to $60,000**, and **medical school and physical therapy program acceptance rates** are significantly above the national average. Its **student-faculty ratio of about 12:1** ensures strong mentorship, and the **Kinesiology Student Association** provides networking and career development. The **University of Michigan Athletic Department** offers unique opportunities for students to work with **Division I sports teams** in strength and conditioning.

## 2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 🏆 BEST VALUE

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 🏆 BEST VALUE](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20North%20Carolina%20Chapel%20Hill%20campus%20with%20students%20jogging%20on%20a%20track%2C%20sunny%20day%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=4004)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$9,000 in-state / ~$39,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students wanting a high-quality, affordable program with strong clinical and sports partnerships

The **Department of Exercise and Sport Science** at **UNC Chapel Hill** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science** with concentrations in **Exercise Physiology**, **Sport Administration**, and **Athletic Training**. The program enrolls about **800 undergraduates** and is housed within the **College of Arts and Sciences**, with close ties to the **UNC School of Medicine** and **UNC Health**. Students complete a **capstone internship** at facilities like **UNC Sports Medicine**, **Duke University Medical Center**, or **Carolina Panthers training facilities**. The **graduation rate exceeds 88%**, and **graduate school placement** for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician assistant programs is among the highest in the state. In-state tuition is a **fraction of private competitors**, making it the **best value** on this list. The **Student Exercise Science Association** hosts annual career fairs with **over 50 employers** in sports medicine and fitness. Average **starting salaries** are around **$42,000 to $55,000**, with many graduates pursuing advanced degrees.

## 3. University of Texas at Austin

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 3. University of Texas at Austin](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Texas%20at%20Austin%20campus%20with%20students%20in%20a%20biomechanics%20lab%2C%20modern%20equipment%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=5005)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$11,000 in-state / ~$42,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students interested in sports performance, coaching, and exercise physiology research

The **Department of Kinesiology and Health Education** at **UT Austin** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology** with specializations in **Exercise Science**, **Sport Management**, and **Health Promotion**. The program enrolls approximately **1,000 undergraduates** and is supported by the **Human Performance Laboratory** and the **Exercise and Sport Psychology Laboratory**. Students benefit from **direct partnerships with UT Athletics**, including internships with **Texas Longhorns strength and conditioning** and **sports medicine staff**. The **graduation rate is around 85%**, and **internship placement** is near **95%** at sites like **Dell Medical School**, **Texas Children's Hospital**, and **Nike World Headquarters**. The **Kinesiology Student Organization** provides mentorship and networking. Average **starting salaries** are **$44,000 to $58,000**, and the program is a **feeder for top physical therapy schools** in Texas. The **Austin location** offers a vibrant job market in fitness and sports.

## 4. University of Florida

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 4. University of Florida](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Florida%20campus%20with%20students%20using%20treadmills%20and%20VO2%20max%20equipment%20in%20a%20lab%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=6006)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$6,400 in-state / ~$29,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students seeking a low-cost, high-research program with strong clinical ties

The **Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology** at **University of Florida** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology** with tracks in **Exercise Physiology**, **Biomechanics**, and **Pre-Professional**. The program enrolls about **900 undergraduates** and is located within the **College of Health and Human Performance**. Students have access to the **Center for Exercise Science** and **UF Health Sports Medicine Institute**, and complete **required research projects** or **clinical internships**. The **graduation rate is approximately 87%**, and **graduate school placement** for physical therapy and medical programs is strong. In-state tuition is among the **lowest on this list**, making it a top value. The **UF Kinesiology Club** hosts guest speakers from **NFL teams** and **sports medicine clinics**. Average **starting salaries** range from **$40,000 to $52,000**. The **Gainesville location** offers a tight-knit college town atmosphere with ample outdoor recreation.

## 5. University of Georgia

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 5. University of Georgia](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Georgia%20campus%20with%20students%20in%20a%20strength%20and%20conditioning%20lab%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=7007)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$11,000 in-state / ~$31,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students focused on exercise physiology, sports nutrition, and athletic training

The **Department of Kinesiology** at **University of Georgia** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science** with concentrations in **Exercise Physiology**, **Sport Management**, and **Health and Fitness**. The program enrolls about **700 undergraduates** and is housed in the **College of Education**. Students use the **Ramsay Center for Kinesiology Research** and the **Georgia Athletic Association Sports Medicine facilities**. The **graduation rate is around 84%**, and **internship placement** is high with partners like **UGA Athletic Association**, **Children's Healthcare of Atlanta**, and **Emory University Hospital**. The **Kinesiology Student Association** organizes career panels and networking events. Average **starting salaries** are **$41,000 to $54,000**. The **Athens location** is known for its music scene and outdoor lifestyle.

## 6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Illinois%20campus%20with%20students%20in%20a%20motor%20behavior%20lab%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=8008)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$16,000 in-state / ~$36,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students interested in motor control, biomechanics, and rehabilitation science

The **Department of Kinesiology and Community Health** at **UIUC** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology** with specializations in **Exercise Science**, **Health and Fitness**, and **Teacher Certification**. The program enrolls about **600 undergraduates** and is known for its **strong research focus** in the **Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology** and the **Center for Health, Aging, and Disability**. Students complete a **senior thesis or capstone internship** at sites like **Carle Foundation Hospital** or **Illinois Athletics**. The **graduation rate is approximately 86%**, and **graduate school placement** is robust. Average **starting salaries** are **$43,000 to $56,000**. The **Urbana-Champaign campus** offers a classic college experience with extensive lab resources.

## 7. University of Wisconsin-Madison

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 7. University of Wisconsin-Madison](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Wisconsin%20Madison%20campus%20with%20students%20in%20a%20physiology%20lab%20testing%20VO2%20max%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=9009)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$11,000 in-state / ~$39,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students pursuing exercise physiology, sports medicine, or public health

The **Department of Kinesiology** at **UW-Madison** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology** with emphases in **Exercise Physiology**, **Athletic Training**, and **Physical Education**. The program enrolls about **500 undergraduates** and is part of the **School of Education**. Students have access to the **Wisconsin Athletic Performance Center** and the **UW Health Sports Medicine Clinic**. The **graduation rate is around 85%**, and **internship placement** is strong with **UW Athletics**, **Madison Area Health Systems**, and **professional sports teams**. The **Kinesiology Club** hosts workshops on **NSCA certification** and **graduate school applications**. Average **starting salaries** are **$42,000 to $55,000**. The **Madison location** is known for its active lifestyle and lakefront campus.

## 8. Ohio State University

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 8. Ohio State University](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20Ohio%20State%20University%20campus%20with%20students%20in%20a%20strength%20and%20conditioning%20lab%20with%20Buckeyes%20logos%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=1010)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$12,000 in-state / ~$36,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students wanting a large university with extensive sports medicine and athletic partnerships

The **School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences** at **Ohio State University** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science** within the **College of Medicine**. The program enrolls about **400 undergraduates** and is integrated with **Wexner Medical Center** and **Ohio State Athletics**. Students complete **clinical rotations** in **sports medicine**, **cardiac rehabilitation**, and **physical therapy** settings. The **graduation rate is approximately 83%**, and **internship placement** is near **100%** at sites like **James Cancer Hospital** and **Ohio State Buckeyes sports medicine**. Average **starting salaries** are **$44,000 to $58,000**. The **Columbus campus** offers a vibrant city environment with ample job opportunities in healthcare.

## 9. University of Southern California

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 9. University of Southern California](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Southern%20California%20campus%20with%20students%20in%20a%20biomechanics%20lab%20with%20motion%20capture%20cameras%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=1111)

**Type:** Private Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$63,000  |  **Best for:** Students seeking a private university experience with strong industry connections in sports and entertainment

The **Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy** at **USC** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Sciences** with a concentration in **Exercise Science**. The program enrolls about **300 undergraduates** and is housed within the **USC Health Sciences Campus**. Students use the **Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Research Laboratory** and **USC Sports Medicine Clinic**. The **graduation rate is around 90%**, and **internship placement** is high with **USC Athletics**, **Los Angeles professional sports teams**, and **hospitals**. Average **starting salaries** are **$48,000 to $62,000**. The **Los Angeles location** provides unparalleled access to the **sports and fitness industry**. Tuition is high, but **financial aid packages** are generous.

## 10. University of Virginia

![Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology in 2027 — 10. University of Virginia](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/high%20quality%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20the%20University%20of%20Virginia%20campus%20with%20students%20in%20a%20physiology%20lab%2C%20historic%20architecture%20background%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=1212)

**Type:** Public Research University  |  **Tuition:** ~$20,000 in-state / ~$56,000 out-of-state  |  **Best for:** Students wanting a highly selective, research-intensive program with strong pre-health tracks

The **Department of Kinesiology** at **UVA** offers a **Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology** within the **School of Education and Human Development**. The program enrolls about **350 undergraduates** and is known for its **rigorous curriculum** in **exercise physiology**, **biomechanics**, and **sport psychology**. Students have access to the **Exercise and Sport Research Laboratory** and **UVA Health Sports Medicine**. The **graduation rate is approximately 94%**, and **graduate school placement** for physical therapy and medical programs is exceptionally high. Average **starting salaries** are **$45,000 to $60,000**. The **Charlottesville location** offers a historic, walkable campus with strong alumni networks in healthcare.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A[Top 10 Schools for Exercise Science and Kinesiology 2027] --> B[University of Michigan: Best Overall]
    A --> C[UNC Chapel Hill: Best Value]
    A --> D[UT Austin: Sports Performance]
    A --> E[University of Florida: Low Cost Research]
    A --> F[University of Georgia: Exercise Physiology]
    A --> G[UIUC: Motor Behavior]
    A --> H[UW Madison: Exercise Physiology]
    A --> I[Ohio State: Clinical Rotations]
    A --> J[USC: Industry Connections]
    A --> K[University of Virginia: Pre-Health]
```

## FAQ

**What is the difference between exercise science and kinesiology?**  
Exercise science is a subset of kinesiology focused on the physiological responses to exercise, while kinesiology is the broader study of human movement, including biomechanics, motor control, and sport psychology.

**Which school has the best internship opportunities?**  
The University of Michigan and Ohio State University both have exceptional internship placement rates near 100%, thanks to their strong ties with medical centers and Division I athletics.

**Is a degree in exercise science worth it for physical therapy school?**  
Yes, it is a common and excellent pre-requisite path; programs like UNC Chapel Hill and University of Florida have high placement rates into top physical therapy programs.

**What are the typical starting salaries for exercise science graduates?**  
Starting salaries generally range from $40,000 to $60,000, with higher earnings in private sector roles like corporate fitness or sports performance.

**Do these programs require a thesis or capstone?**  
Many top programs, including Michigan, UIUC, and UVA, require a senior thesis or capstone internship to ensure hands-on research experience.

**Can I get into these schools with a strong GPA and extracurriculars?**  
Yes, but admission is competitive; most programs expect a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher, strong science coursework, and relevant volunteer or athletic experience.

## Sources

- U.S. News & World Report — Best Undergraduate Kinesiology Programs
- Niche — College Rankings for Exercise Science
- College Board — Program and Tuition Data
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) — Accredited Programs
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) — Career Resources
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology — Official Program Page
- University of North Carolina Exercise and Sport Science — Official Program Page

## Related on PULSE
- Explore more in the PULSE library.

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