Nashville State Opens Pathways to Exciting Careers in Exercise Science and Sports & Leisure Management

For anyone passionate about fitness, wellness, and recreation, Nashville State Community College offers two exciting degree options that can turn your interests into a fulfilling career.

The Associate of Science (A.S.) in Exercise Science and the A.S. in Sports and Leisure Management provide affordable, high-quality pathways to four-year universities and a wide range of growing career fields.

Both programs are offered at Nashville State’s Southeast campus, with general education courses available at any of the college’s locations.

Each degree is designed to transfer seamlessly to partner universities, giving students a strong foundation to pursue a bachelor’s degree and beyond.

Health and Wellness

With an Associate of Science in Exercise Science from Nashville State, students build a foundation in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and health — all essential for understanding how the human body moves and performs. Graduates are prepared to transfer to a four-year university and continue their studies in fields such as kinesiology, pre-physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other health-related disciplines.

Nashville State students can pursue a bachelor’s in exercise science studies by transferring credits to:

• Austin Peay State University
• East Tennessee State University
• Middle Tennessee State University
• Tennessee State University
• Tennessee Technological University
• University of Tennessee–Martin

(Note: The University of Tennessee–Knoxville and the University of Memphis do not have an Exercise Science transfer pathway. However, students interested in Kinesiology at UT–Knoxville should review the Kinesiology transfer pathway.)

Career opportunities for Exercise Science graduates are diverse and rewarding, including:
Physical Therapist, Exercise Physiologist, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Physician Assistant, Athletic Trainer, Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist, and Public Health Administrator.

Sports and Recreation

The Associate of Science in Sports and Leisure Management is ideal for students who want to blend their passion for sports, recreation, and leadership. Coursework focuses on management, communication, and the social aspects of sports and recreation, preparing students for leadership roles in public, private, and non-profit sectors.

Nashville State students can pursue a bachelor’s in sports and leisure studies by transferring credits to:

• East Tennessee State University
• Middle Tennessee State University
• Tennessee Technological University
• University of Memphis
• University of Tennessee–Chattanooga
• University of Tennessee–Martin

Graduates who pursue a bachelor’s degree in Sports and Leisure Management can go on to careers such as Athletic Director, Parks and Recreation Superintendent, Camp Director, Sports Manager, Environmental Educator, Youth Sports Director, or Health Club Manager.

Non-Degree Seekers

For those who do not seek a degree but want to learn about and take health and wellness courses, they can still do so. Classes include:

• HHP 1300 First Aid and Safety
• HHP 2300 Intro to Exercise Science
• HHP 2400 Prevention and Care of Athletic Injuries
• PHED 1010 Intro to Health and Wellness
• PHED 1030 Walking
• PHED 1060 Weight Training
• PHED 1340 Beginning Yoga

Your Future Starts at Nashville State

Whether your goal is to help others live healthier lives or to lead in the world of sports and recreation, Nashville State’s Exercise Science and Sports & Leisure Management programs offer affordable, accessible pathways to success. With small class sizes, supportive faculty, and transfer agreements with Tennessee’s top universities, students can confidently take the next step toward their academic and career goals.

Learn more about these degree programs and how to apply at www.nscc.edu.