Jul 01, 2024  
2024-2025 Graduate Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Graduate Catalog

Exercise Science, M.S.


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College of Education  
Department: Educational and Psychological Studies 

Concentrations:

  • Strength and Conditioning
  • Health and Wellness

 


The M.S. in Exercise Science provides and in-depth study of applied human physiology and how it relates to athletic performance and health and wellness. The purpose of the program is to prepare fitness professionals that are equipped to meet the needs of adults in their pursuit of improved health and performance. Exercise science professionals work with adults in leadership positions in areas such as strength & conditioning, worksite health promotion, commercial and community fitness/wellness, hospital/clinical rehabilitation, personal fitness training, online weight loss coaching, and sports performance. In addition, graduates of this program will have the educational background to pursue doctoral education and other advanced degree programs. 

Major Research Areas

  • Fat Loss from Diet and Exercise Interventions
  • Heat Stress and Strain
  • Physical Activity Behavior and Adherence
  • Psychobiology of Exercise
  • Sports Nutrition and Exercise Performance 
  • Physique Enhancement
  • Blood Flow Restriction
  • Skeletal Muscle Adaptations to Resistance Training
  • Strength and Conditioning

Admission Information

Must meet University Admission and English Proficiency requirements as well as requirements for admission to the major, listed below.

  • Resume
  • 2 letters of recommendation
  • Letter of intent (please include career goals, any type of experience related to the field and/or research experience).

To be successful in this major, the following pre-requisite courses are recommended: Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Nutrition, and Exercise Physiology.

Admissions decisions are based on the following: GPA, relevant coursework, experience in the field, letter of intent, research experience, and letters of recommendation. Applicants should be aware that admission into any graduate major is granted on a competitive basis.

Curriculum Requirements


Total Minimum Hours - 34 hours minimum

  • Core Requirements – 6 Credit Hours
  • Generalist Specialization or Concentration – 21 Credit Hours
  • Electives - 6 Credit Hours
  • Optional Thesis – 6 Credit Hours in lieu of elective hours

Core Requirements (7 Credit Hours Minimum)


Generalist Specialization or Concentration Requirements (21 Credit Hours Minimum)


Students either select one of the following concentrations, or they complete the general specialization.

Strength and Conditioning Concentration (21 Credit Hours)


Health and Wellness Concentration (21 Credit Hours)


Generalist Specialization (21 Credit Hours)


Electives (6 Credit Hours Minimum)


Electives are selected in consultation with the faculty advisor.

Comprehensive Exam


A comprehensive exam is required. For students in the thesis option, the thesis serves in lieu of the comprehensive exam.

Optional Thesis (3 Credit Hours Minimum)


Thesis is not required but considered as elective hours for those who select to do a thesis. Students interested in registering for thesis credit must have the approval of a faculty member that agrees to serve as the thesis chairperson.

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