The Master of Science (MS) program in exercise physiology prepares students for rewarding careers or for continued postgraduate education. Many of our graduates pursue additional certification (e.g., ACSM Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) and often move into diverse roles as certified exercise physiologists, wellness coordinators, cardiac rehabilitation specialists, and faculty, among others.
Students pursuing a Master of Science (MS) in exercise physiology complete common core courses and choose from one of three areas of emphasis, clinical, research, or tactical.
Clinical exercise physiology focuses on the use of exercise testing and training in persons with or at high risk of acquiring chronic disease. Students obtain experience in various medical settings and work with populations with varied health problems (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arthritis). The three- to four-semester program begins in the summer semester.
The research exercise physiology area of emphasis is designed for students who wish to engage in an intensive research training experience, in preparation for further training in a PhD, MD, or similar postgraduate program. The two-year program begins in the fall semester.
The tactical performance physiology area of emphasis prepares exercise physiologists equipped to address the overall health, fitness, and readiness of tactical personnel (e.g., military service members, firefighters, law enforcement officers). The program is low-residency and begins in the summer term.
MD/PhD Program
“You only have one body, so being able to help someone through an illness is truly poignant and carries big impact.”
Exercise Physiology
“Our curriculum incorporates how to design studies, analyze and interpret medical papers and so much more. I knew I would learn a lot in my program, but I didn’t know exactly how applicable everything I learned would be to my medical school experience.”
Exercise Physiology
“It’s wonderful how much you can educate patients, but even more importantly, how much you can learn from the patient. This is an overlooked and crucial aspect of healthcare. It makes you a better physician and better person.”