Exercise Physiology (MS)

Master of Science in Exercise Physiology (EXP MS)
Unit: College of Education and Human Development (GE)
Department: Health and Sport Sciences
Program Webpage 
Academic Plan Code(s): EXP_MS

Program Information

Students who complete the Master of Science degree in Exercise Physiology are prepared to pursue a number of career options. Graduates from our program have continued their education by completing the PhD degree in fields such as exercise physiology, physiology, biochemistry, while others continue to the MD. Many students have pursued careers in allied health fields such as nursing and physical therapy as well as in such fields as aviation physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, corporate wellness, and ergonomics.

The MS in Exercise Physiology program prepares students to sit for examinations to qualify for certifications offered by private organizations including the American College of Sports Medicine, the National Strength & Conditioning Association, and the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association.  These certifications are sometimes preferred or required for employment in specific settings (e.g., hospitals, college campuses) within the exercise physiology field.  However, the program is not designed to prepare students for any professional licensure issued by any US state or other jurisdiction.

Because many of our students seek to work in the fields of cardiac rehabilitation and corporate wellness, the curriculum is structured to satisfy the preliminary requirements for certification as "exercise technologist" or "exercise specialist" as set by the American College of Sports Medicine. The curriculum provides students the necessary knowledge base and coursework to satisfy entrance into the certification process (which is under the control of the American College of Sports Medicine and requires both a written and practical exam).

Admission Requirements

• Complete a graduate application for admission.
• Earning an undergraduate major (exercise science, kinesiology, physical therapy, medicine, physiology, nursing, biology, chemistry, etc.) with a Grade-Point Average ≥2.75 on a 4-point scale.  All applicants must submit official transcripts showing all degrees awarded and all undergraduate and graduate work (all courses) completed from each accredited college/university previously attended.
• Completion of all prerequisite courses from the following list with a grade ≥3.0 on a 4-point scale: Exercise Physiology; Biomechanics/Structural Kinesiology; Anatomy & Physiology (minimum of  six  (6) credit hours).
• A resume where candidates will describe the experience they have accumulated in the fields of exercise science, exercise physiology, sport science, and/or strength and conditioning and a personal statement (500 words or less) where candidates will explain their interest in the program and professional objectives. 
• Three letters of recommendation.
• All applicants for whom English is a second language must also submit official TOEFL scores of 79 or higher on the internet-based test, 213 or higher on the computer-based test. English proficiency can also be met by submitting official IELTS scores of at least 6.5 overall band score from the academic module exam or official Duolingo overall score of 105.
• Following review of materials listed above, eligible candidates will be invited to an interview with the selection committee where they will be provided with information about the program and will further discuss the content of their application.

 Degree Requirements

Note: Students will chose either EXP 620 Exercise Physiology Internship (six (6) credit hours) or EXP 699 Thesis (six (6) credit hours).