BS in Exercise, Nutrition, & Health

Sample Courses

1. Scientific Knowledge Application: Students analyze and apply the fundamental principles of human nutrition anatomy, physiology, , chemistry, and biomechanics to understand human movement and the acute and chronic responses to exercise.
2. Assessment and Evaluation: Students accurately administer, interpret, and evaluate nutritional, as well as health-related physical fitness assessments (e.g., body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength/endurance) and performance tests, utilizing appropriate instrumentation and ethical procedures.
3. Program Design: Students design, implement, and modify safe and effective exercise programs for individuals and groups with diverse needs, goals, and health statuses, including apparently healthy populations and those with controlled chronic diseases.
4. Professional and Ethical Practice: Students demonstrate professionalism, ethical behavior, and effective communication skills in all interactions, adhering to the standards and guidelines established by professional organizations.
5. Evidence-Based Practice: Students critically evaluate and synthesize scientific literature in exercise and nutritional science and related fields to make informed, evidence-based decisions regarding exercise and nutrition prescription and health promotion strategies.

Bachelor of Science in Exercise, Nutrition, and Health

Experiential Learning

Bridge the gap between theory and practice through immersive service-learning. Students engage in required internships across clinical, corporate, and community settings, applying evidence-based strategies to improve holistic wellness. Rooted in SEU’s mission, you will partner with local organizations to design health interventions for underserved populations, ensuring you graduate with the real-world skills to address health disparities and lead with compassion.

Career Paths

A B.S. in Exercise, Nutrition, and Health opens doors to the rapidly growing health, wellness, and performance industries. Our graduates are prepared for immediate careers or to pursue advanced professional and graduate degrees.

Direct Entry Careers (with B.S. Degree):

• Clinical Exercise Physiologist 
  Hospitals, Cardiac/Pulmonary Rehab Centers Designs and manages exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, diabetes) to improve health outcomes.
• Strength & Conditioning Coach 
  College Athletics, Professional Sports, Private Academies Develops and implements specialized training programs to enhance athletic performance, power, and speed while preventing injury.
• Certified Personal Trainer / Group Fitness Instructor
  Health Clubs, Corporate Wellness, Private Practice Assesses client fitness levels and designs tailored exercise and lifestyle programs to meet individual goals.
• Wellness Coordinator / Health Coach
  Corporate Offices, Community Centers, Insurance Companies Develops and manages comprehensive health and wellness programs to promote healthier lifestyles among employees or community members.
• Kinesiologist / Human Performance Specialist
  Rehabilitation Clinics, Specialized Training Facilities Analyzes movement patterns and leverages biomechanics to optimize physical function and prevent injury.

Salary and Job Outlook

The health care sector is currently undergoing a paradigm shift from "sick care" (treating illness) to "preventative wellness" (optimizing health). This transition has created an urgent demand for professionals who understand the science of the human body and the nutrition that fuels it.

National Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in preventative health fields is growing faster than the average for all occupations.

• Exercise Physiologists: Projected to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, driven by a growing emphasis on exercise as medicine for chronic disease management.
• Dietitians and Nutritionists: Projected to grow 7%, as the link between diet and health becomes central to medical care.
• Athletic Trainers: Projected to grow 11%, reflecting increased awareness of sports-related injuries and concussion management.
• Regional Demand (NJ/NY): The New Jersey/New York metropolitan area is a global hub for the health and life sciences industries.

New Jersey is home to 13 of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies and a dense network of major hospital systems, creating a robust market for corporate wellness directors and clinical health educators.

The demand for Health Education Specialists in the region is particularly strong, as community health organizations seek to address disparities in underserved urban populations—a mission directly aligned with SEU's values.

The "Wellness Gap"

While many graduates specialize in either fitness or nutrition, employers are increasingly seeking "Integrated Health Specialists"—professionals who can design holistic wellness plans that combine physical activity, nutritional counseling, and behavioral change. This program’s interdisciplinary approach uniquely prepares you to fill this void.

Salary Potential:

• Exercise Physiologists: Median annual wages in the NJ/NY area typically exceed the national average, often ranging between $60,000 and $75,000.
• Registered Dietitians (RDs): Median pay in the region is approximately $73,000 – $80,000, with specialized roles in sports nutrition or clinical settings commanding significantly higher salaries.
• Corporate Wellness Directors: Senior roles in this sector can offer salaries upwards of $100,000.

Dr. Trish Heindel

Interim Associate Vice President & Dean of Academic Affairs

(973) 290-4102
pheindel@steu.edu
Santa Rita Hall 4th Floor 408

Dr. Anthony Santamaria

Provost/Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs

(973) 290-4338
asantamaria@steu.edu
Santa Rita Hall 4th Floor 402