BA vs. BS in Exercise Science: Which Path Is Right for You?
If you’re passionate about health, movement, and helping others live stronger, more balanced lives, an Exercise Science degree could be the perfect fit. But as you explore your options at Northwest University, you’ll notice two pathways: the Bachelor of Science (BS) and the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Exercise Science.
So, what’s the difference — and which one is right for you?
Both degrees share the same foundation: a deep appreciation for the human body as God’s incredible creation and a commitment to studying how movement, performance, and wellness work together for human flourishing. But each path has a unique emphasis that fits different callings, interests, and career goals.
The BS in Exercise Science: For the Future Clinician or Scientist
If you’re fascinated by the science behind movement, the BS in Exercise Science is built for you.
This degree focuses on the technical and scientific aspects of exercise science, giving you a stronger foundation in advanced sciences like chemistry, physics, and physiology. You’ll spend more time in the lab — measuring performance, analyzing movement, and understanding how the body responds to training, stress, and recovery.
Students who choose the BS often plan to pursue clinical or graduate-level programs such as:
- Physical Therapy (PT)
- Occupational Therapy (OT)
- Exercise Physiology or Sports Science
- Medical or Allied Health Professions
The BS program emphasizes data, research, and precision — preparing you for the kind of analytical, lab-based work common in healthcare and high-performance settings.
If you love asking “why” and “how” — why muscles adapt to training, how the heart strengthens under stress — this is your path.
The BA in Exercise Science: For the Coach, Educator, or Wellness Leader
The BA in Exercise Science covers the same core science courses as the BS, but it’s intentionally designed with flexibility and a broader liberal arts focus. It’s perfect for students who want to combine their understanding of movement with leadership, coaching, education, or ministry. In addition to anatomy and physiology, you’ll study communication, psychology, and wellness promotion — learning how to inspire others toward healthy living.
Many BA students are drawn to careers such as:
- Wellness Coaching and Corporate Health
- Community Health and Education
- Sports or Recreation Leadership
- Church or Nonprofit Wellness Ministry
- Fitness and Lifestyle Management
If you love connecting with people, leading teams, or helping communities flourish, the BA gives you the space to integrate science with service. This degree recognizes that caring for the body isn’t just a science — it’s a ministry of restoration. You’ll graduate ready to serve in ways that strengthen both the body and the spirit.
Faith at the Core of Both Degrees
No matter which path you choose, both programs are grounded in a Christian worldview.
At Northwest University, we believe studying the body is one way of worshiping the Creator — uncovering the beauty of His design. Whether you’re researching in the lab or leading a fitness program in your community, you’ll be doing more than practicing a profession — you’ll be living out your faith through movement and health.
The Bottom Line
If you love analyzing, testing, and understanding the details of how the body works, the BS will prepare you for scientific and clinical roles.
If you love coaching, teaching, or serving others through wellness, the BA will give you the flexibility and relational skills to lead in a variety of settings.
Both paths are united by a shared foundation: the belief that the human body is fearfully and wonderfully made — and that helping others care for it is one of the most meaningful ways to serve God and community.
Ready to Explore Your Path?
Visit our program pages to learn more about each degree.
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science