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Master of Science in Exercise-Sports-Science


Exercise & Sports Science Graduate Programs


The Exercise and Sports Science (ESS) division in the Department of Health and Human Performance offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Exercise Science with three concentrations: Health and Rehabilitation Sciences concentration, Strength & Conditioning and Sport Coaching concentration, and Physical Activity Literacy concentration.  Students can choose from the thesis or non-thesis options in exercise science and its concentrations. Students will gain the critical thinking, research, and technical skills to understand research-based literature and use innovative approaches to problem solving and improve their competencies to successfully work with children, adolescents, adults and seniors. Graduates with an M.S. in exercise science will be in demand and able to work in all sectors of the workforce, including federal, state and local government health agencies, public schools and universities. Positions include rehabilitation specialist, clinical exercise physiologists, strength & conditioning and sport coaches, directors of fitness and wellness programs, and physical education teachers.



The M.S. in Exercise Science will equip students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to address health issues related to physical inactivity and obesity as well as to enhance human performance using evidence-based training and dietary strategies. Graduates will appreciate the value and importance of research-based literature and have the critical thinking, research, and technical skills to: 1) understand research-based literature; 2) use innovative approaches to problem solving; 3) successfully pursue a doctoral degree in Exercise Science or related discipline; 4) work in athletic, clinical (e.g., cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and diagnostic testing), educational, and fitness settings; and 5) sit for advanced professional certifications (e.g., the American College of Sports Medicine Certified Clinical Exercise Specialist, Certified Health Fitness Specialist, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist).

Please contact the ESS graduate coordinator for questions:

Graduate Program Coordinator: Dr. Joni Mettler

The Department of Health and Human Performance is a member of the American Kinesiology Association

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