Master’s in Exercise Science & Sport Performance Master’s Programs

This Exercise Science Master’s program can be completed in two years with one summer semester. By studying the effects of exercise on the body, students will prepare to work as trainers, researchers, clinical testing, corporate wellness, and more.

Study in the peaceful suburb of Garden City, just a few miles from New York City and all that it has to offer. This degree includes STEM content that will help you stand out as a graduate of a rigorous program. From adolescent nutrition to cardiac rehabilitation to work with elite athletes, this program will prepare you to work in a wide range of rolls in diverse settings.

ASU’s Clinical Exercise Physiology master’s program offers excellent opportunities and instruction for students who wish to work with patients under the care of a physician who have been prescribed an exercise plan as part of their treatment plan.

A top university for sports, Arizona State boasts state of the art equipment and top-rated faculty in their Exercise Science and Wellness Master’s program.

**Note that for Fall 2021 the GRE is not required, but it is typically required under “normal” circumstances**
Study and research physiology, human kinetics, and motor behavior to advance your understanding of the effects of exercise and movement on the body and mind in this Exercise Science graduate program geared toward students planning futures in professional school in medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or doctoral studies in kinesiology. Auburn also offers a Master of Science in Physical Activity and Health.

Ball State University features state-of-the-art Human Performance Laboratory as well as the Integrative Exercise Physiology Laboratory – facilities that are well-known in the area. This program is research-intensive and suitable for students with a serious commitment to their work.

A strong academic foundation in the study of the body’s response and adaptation to various forms of exercise and how those adaptations can be used to treat or prevent injury or chronic health conditions. Barry’s program offers a relatively high degree of flexibility for students to design their own programs of advanced study.

Students have the opportunity to pursue one of three tracks– a Master of Athletic Training, Exercise Physiology, or Sport Pedagogy. It should be noted that each track does give opportunities for internships, independent study and practicum and students can focus their learning to help get them closer to their career goals. Each student will also successfully complete either a thesis, internship, practicum, or research manuscript.

Work toward American College of Sports Medicine Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) certification upon completion of this program. This program can be completed in 15 months for a faster path to professional practice.

BYU works to give students the skills and resources to gain a better understanding of the body and spirit by diving deep into the disciples of human exercise, mechanics, and performance. Students will have the chance to participate in research studies and have the flexibility to choose courses that are most relevant to their career goals.

This MS degree program allows students to study how we move, how we think, and how our bodies respond to exercise and other conditions. It is focused on preparing students who want to work in the field of exercise physiology or continue their education in a doctoral program.

Combining traditional exercise science and clinical exercise physiology coursework with practical experiences, this unique program gives students a diverse skillset—making them highly marketable and competitive throughout their professional career.

This Master of Science in Exercise Physiology program prepares students for several jobs; health and fitness practitioners, strength conditioners, and clinical physiologists, to name a few. Top students are encouraged to undertake an assistantship.

Cleveland State offers an Master of Education in Exercise Science with evening and online courses, so working professionals can fit them into their schedule. This program develops future teachers, fitness program leaders, and researchers.

In Depth Research is an integral part of CSU’s Exercise Science Program and Graduate students are part of exciting studies relating to exercise and cancer recurrence, maximizing healthspan, and neuromuscular disease and disability (among other studies). Its state of the art labs and seasoned faculty allow for really engaging and important research to be done!

Columbia University has a tried and tested program as it is the first U.S. graduate program which combined nutrition and exercise science. As the two are so interrelated for a healthy body, this program allows students to dive deep into the research and gain a full understanding which will help them in their future careers. This basis of knowledge can be applied to program design of individuals or groups to maximize performance or prevent injury and disease.

Combining principles and practices of exercise science with a focus on coaching, CUI has a unique program that should be in the top five of anyone who is considering a career in coaching and wants the applied science background to truly stand out.

Geared toward ACSM and/or NSCA certification, this Exercise Science program gives student the necessary skills and experience to pass certification exams and enter the profession as certified trainers, clinicians, researchers, or doctoral students.

Choose the thesis option for experience designing and implementing research or opt for an internship for hands-on experience in a work environment relevant to the field.ESU’s top notch facilities are a great place to learn and practice exercise science.

Students have the choice to focus on Applied Sport Science or Strength and Conditioning. The Strength and Conditioning portion is 100% online, and is meant to prepare graduates for roles in Coaching or Athletic Performance.

Eastern Illinoi University’s Exercise Physiology program prepares students for certification with the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Students can focus on human and sport performance or rehabilitation- and they are especially known for their cardiac rehabilitation program. Students examine current professional standards, recent research and get hands-on experience. There are also multiple opportunities for Graduate Assistantships.

Gain a solid foundation of knowledge and theory as well as practical experience in the application of exercise science, sports administration, fitness, and strength and conditioning. Fall and Spring semesters are in-person while summer courses are delivered virtually.

The Athletic Training program works to grow students ethically, morally and intellectually and provide the foundation for them to because successful professionals in the world of Athletic Training. The Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and prepares students for success in the field.

FSU works to benefit the community at large by teaching students to research, investigate, and contribute knowledge to the field of Exercise Science. By default, students are placed in to the non-thesis track, but can apply for a thesis track if that is their objective. However, if students are looking for more of a clinical career, then they have the ability to tailor their learning to suit that objective

GMU takes a science-based approach to exercise and gives students practical applications of the role of physical activity in the promotion of health, fitness and quality of life. Its SMART Lab is state of the art and allows for interesting research and clinical practice!

This kinesiology master’s program will give you the hands-on and academic training background to advance your career as an athletic trainer. Coursework covers topics such as concussion and pathophysiology management, spinal assessment and rehabilitation, Graston Technique, clinical education in AT, and gross anatomy.

Combining classroom instruction, laboratory research, and field experience, this versatile master’s program covers biomechanics, psychology, public health, nutrition and more, preparing you for careers in fields such as cardiac rehabilitation, corporate wellness, hospital-based wellness, sports performance, strength and conditioning.

This master’s of Science degree offered by James Madison University has both a thesis and non-thesis track featuring electives in clinical exercise physiology, applied exercise physiology, nutrition, biology, and psychology, which allows students to tailor their learning based on their career aspirations– both in the realm of research and clinical practice.

Choose a concentration in sport management or exercise physiology as you complete this program in 4 or more semesters depending on whether you enroll part or full time. Participate in instruction in the advanced-level human performance laboratory and enjoy field experience opportunities with local, national, or international athletic and fitness organizations.

Students will be expected to sit for (and pass) either the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or NSCA exam. There is either the Certified Exercise Physiologist or Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Students can gain experience both in the classroom and in clinical settings that will prepare them to enter the workforce with confidence.

This programs has five different tracks and a 4 quarter curriculum which prepares students for careers in coaching, exercise and sport science, sport injury management ,chiropractic sport science, and nutrition/sport science with a combination of practicums, internships, and hands-on experience.

Study advanced exercise physiology theory and concepts through lab work and lectures and gain a very marketable skill set that includes sports nutrition, athletic performance and fitness tracks.

LSU’s Exercise Science Master’s allows you to deep dive into topics such as exercise programs for patients with chronic disease and disability and optimization of human performance.

Loyola prepares students to take management and leadership positions in the Healthcare industry, or as a first step to advancing academically while performing interesting research. The campus has two labs which help take theories learned in the classroom and put them to practical use. As part of the curriculum, students will participate in an internship which serves as a great first step for people to get in to the labor market and build connections.

Marquette University’s Sports and Exercise Analytics program focuses on the intersection of physiology and biomechanics and analytics based around human performance. For students seeking an advanced degree that is at the cutting edge of exercise science research and helping athletes achieve their very best, this program is an excellent option.

Whether working with patients in need of cardiac, diabetic, or pulmonary rehabilitation and treatment, strength coaching with elite athletes, or conducting research in laboratories, Marshall’s Exercise Master’s program has the breadth and depth to prepare you for success. Students planning to continue to doctoral study will complete a thesis.

Gain the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in community, corporate, or private fitness practice and lay the foundation for advanced study and research in clinical exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, and doctoral programs.

With one of the most affordable out-of state tuition rates in the country, Midwestern State delivers the theory and practice necessary to train professional exercise physiologists to work in a wide variety of settings.

Serving future clinicians, coaches, researchers, and leaders, Minnesota State Mankato has numerous partnerships with area companies and organizations that can help graduates find work in the field of Exercise Science.

A science-based program, Mississippi College’s Master’s of Science in Applied Exercise Physiology is designed for students entering the field of exercise rehabilitation and sports medicine. Graduates will be well equipped to take the American College of Sports Medicine’s exams in health and fitness.

In MSU’s Exercise Physiology Master’s program, you’ll approach exercise physiology as an integrated discipline in which various systems in the body interact with each to cause various outcomes from healing to enhanced performance to illness or injury. This degree provides a path to enter a career as a physiologist or continue on to study at the doctoral level.

A top tier University with excellent faculty and research facilities, Montana State provides students in their Exercise Physiology and Nutrition Master’s program with ample support as they transition to careers.

Many students report that the incredible natural beauty of Bozeman is ample reason to spend a couple of years at Montana State. Opportunities to be active and inspired abound for future coaches as they work with knowledgeable faculty, learning the theory and the science of coaching and sport management and applying their new skills in practical settings around campus and beyond.

Learn to synthesize the latest research findings with your own data to formulate effective strategies in promoting health and wellness through exercise and nutrition in this Master’s program. Choose from three tracks; thesis, research paper, or capstone internship, and tailor your experience to your education and career goals.

Prepare for a variety of careers in the allied health professions by studying the effects of movement and other factors on health throughout the human lifespan. Access NEIU’s large network of alumni, providing a wealth of exciting internship and networking opportunities.

This Non-Thesis program is really two programs in one– it is a combined Master in Public Health and a Master of Science in Exercise Science. It prepares students for the sports world and is accredited by the Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH). Northeaster prides itself on giving students better context and understanding of the public health sector at large, which allows students to design thoughtful and effective programs for their patients. All enrollment is strictly for the fall semester.

This program has equipped students to lead successful careers in exercise science, sports science, and health and wellness fields. This degree is best suited for students with undergraduate backgrounds in athletic training, biological sciences, dietetics, health, nursing, physical education, physiology, physical therapy and sport/exercise science. There are multiple opportunities for Graduate Assistantships available each year, contact the program director (Dr. Sarah Breen) for more details.

There are two main tracks- Performance and Leadership. In the Performance Track, students study about some of the mechanical principles of sports as well as nutrition and strength training/conditioning. In the Leadership track, students would focus on the business side of sports including marketing and finance.

With over 86,000 square feet of campus devoted to Research, Oakland University boasts state of the art laboratories and research facilities that offers amazing facilities and opportunities to graduate students. The program gives opportunities to either explore their research topics further or enter into the field as a health/fitness professional by giving students a true understanding of the human body and how exercise plays a role in disease prevention, physical performance, and overall wellness.

NOTE: GRE (or GMAT) is required, but a waiver can be requested
Hands-On learning from industry experts allows for graduates to be well-prepared for a variety of positions which help those with chronic illness or recovering from an injury, as well as athletes and fitness enthusiasts to get the most out of their body in a safe and healthy way. In addition to the practical skills, students will have a strong background in the theory, scientific research and critical thinking that will help them succeed throughout the program and throughout their career. Graduation within 12 months is possible.

This program offers three specializations- Exercise Science, Nutrition, and a combination of both.

In addition to traditional Strength and Conditioning fundamentals and expertise, this program will give you a strong skill set in performance-related data analytics so that you can pursue a career as a sports scientist or Strength and Conditioning coach.

Salisbury’s Master’s Degree in Applied Health physiology features a robust 400-hour supervised internship, which is among the most intensive of its kind. Additionally, students may choose from three credentialing paths within the degree depending on career aspirations – strength and conditioning, fitness and wellness, and clinical physiology.

This program is suited for students who are looking to further their research in Exercise Physiology as well as students who are looking for practical applications and would like to jumpstart their career in the field of rehabilitative and/or preventative exercise. You may also combine it with Nutritional Sciences for a dual Master’s.

This dual degree program is ideal for individuals seeking a career in rehabilitative, clinical, preventative, or corporate fields. Studying both exercise physiology and nutrition together allows students the unique opportunities to integrate research across these fields. SDSU’s state-of-the-art research facilities and a faculty with extensive experience researching emerging issues in the field make this the ideal program for students who would like to pursue multiple interests in their graduate studies.

This program allows students to choose either nutrition or exercise sciences as a focus, yet the degree includes a solid foundation in both areas to ensure that graduates have a holistic perspective on the issues. This degree is ideal for students seeking a future in clinical, research, or industry fields.

This is the most affordable program of its kind in New England, yet the features and opportunities help Southern’s program compare favorably to top programs. With opportunities for both graduate teaching and research assistantships for those who qualify, this program prepares graduates to be leaders in the field of sport science and human performance. This program is one of only 12 schools in the country to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

This program is comprised of courses in biomechanics, human performance, and motor behavior, with a wide variety of clinical experiences possible for students depending on particular areas of interest. Research techniques are a significant part of this degree, and the degree culminates in a thesis project in a shared area of interest between the student and faculty.

Exercise Science is all about helping others achieve their very best. In order to succeed, you must be educated in exactly how to get through to a wide variety of people in very different situations. With two separate tracks depending on career goals, SNU’s program is designed to set you up for success in the professional world, whether in research, academia, or as a specialist in your chosen area of expertise.

Springfield College’s Exercise Physiology program prepares graduates to critically analyze everything they learn, preparing them to be the future leaders of the industry. With two separate areas of focus, graduates will be prepared to succeed in the field of exercise science, and they will also have a solid foundation from which to pursue a future in allied healthcare, research and much more.

Tennessee State’s M.A.Ed program is offered through the Human Performance and Sport Sciences department, and the program aims to produce graduates who will have solid a pedagogical foundation for teaching quality living and values. Graduates will be prepared for a wide variety of professional responsibilities at the community, collegiate, or university levels.

Live in the vibrant, musical city of Nashville while you complete your M.A. Ed. and teach your students to assess, prevent, and treat health conditions, promote wellness, and improve athletic performance and quality of life. Upon completion, you will be qualified to work in the field of exercise science or to train others.

Studies focus on health science, exercise science, sport science, physical education, and human performance. Whether you are looking to work in medical facilities, athletic organizations, or laboratories, this program’s curriculum is flexible enough to bend to your career goals.

CSS has two exercise physiology labs and an anatomy lab with state of the art equipment which helps propel their mission of a “hands-on education for a hands-on career.” Graduates are prepared to take roles in a variety of organizations, whether it be in the research, rehabilitic, athletic, or fitness field.

George Washington University offers an excellent program which dives deep into Nutrition Science and the advanced science behind exercise performance which allows students the tools to design programs to promote health and wellness for individuals based on a variety of conditions as well as society as a whole. There are opportunities for practical experience as well as research depending on the interest and career goals of the student.

Students will be required to complete a thesis and conduct research as part of this Exercise Science Program. There are opportunities for students to focus on scientific research, physiological assessment, cardiac rehabilitation and exercise prescription.

The University of Delaware offers this MS of Exercise Physiology for students who want to train on the latest equipment and technology and prepare for the American College of Sports Medicine’s Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist exam, this is an excellent choice. Several certifications and exams are included with the tuition.

Take advantage of Idaho’s natural splendor in this unique degree program perfect for coaches, leisure and adventure tourism managers, and anyone who wants to help community’s become active, healthy, and engaged with the outdoors. This degree is designed to be completed in one or two years.

The Exercise Science Master’s degree program at the University of Kansas is highly competitive, and students are required to take two courses outside of the field to ensure that they have a holistic view of the field. The program features top-notch faculty and facilities. The University of Kansas offers a Thesis Track (30 Hours) and a Non-Thesis Track (36 Hours) which allows the student to choose courses with the advice of an advisor to shape a curriculum that is best suited to your career goals.

Take advantage of a large number of lab-based classes to become a strong critical thinker and consumer of data and information to be applied in the training and rehabilitation of clients and patients in a wide variety of settings.

Endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine, this Kinesiology program includes 600 hours of clinical experience and prepares students to certify as a ACSM Clinical Exercise Specialist or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist.

This exercise physiology program emphasizes diversity and a broad skill set. Choose a thesis or an internship and become qualified for a career in clinical or fitness settings. A good option for those considering the growing field of corporate wellness.

This comprehensive program provides a platform for students to advance their careers either in research or in clinical practice. However, all students will complete at least 12 credit hours in research methods and statistics relevant to Exercise, Sport and Movement Sciences. The six-hour capstone experience includes four options: 1) thesis, 2) applied project, 3) research lab residency, or 4) approved electives.

The University of Minnesota has three main tracks that students can choose from depending on their career goals– Sport Performance, Athletic Training, and Health Promotion. This allows for students to successfully enter roles as a sports coach, athletic trainer, or a health coach.

The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers a Master’s in Kinesiology program that is in many ways perfect for future coaches, physical education teachers, and athletic administrators who want to equip themselves with a comprehensive toolkit from exercise physiology to pedagogy to group dynamics that help a group function well together from individual performance to team effort.

With nationally recognized research and a Master’s of Kinesiology degree program that is built with the needs of the student at the forefront, University of Nebraska at Omaha is an ideal institution for future coaches, physical education teachers, and athletic administrators who want to give their very best to the students and communities they serve.

Elect to do a thesis or a professional research project while earning your MS in Exercise Science at the University of Northern Colorado. Get involved with ongoing research either in the lab, clinical settings or basic scientific research topics around the body’s response to exercise. This attractive program lets you decide what you will research and gives you the tools, instruction and support to succeed.

The University of Oklahoma has a well respected and comprehensive program as part of their Department of Health and Exercise Science. Students can choose to study Exercise Physiology, Health Promotion, Health and Exercise Science, and Sports Data Analytics.

The Master of Science in Exercise Science provides an 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. Graduates of this program will also have the educational background to pursue doctoral education and other advanced degree programs.

This degree is characterized best as a “learn by doing” program. Train on the most cutting edge, state-of-the-art equipment and laboratories and gain solid foundation for further study or certification and employment in a range of careers centering on exercise science.

With a world-renowned faculty and legendary faculty, this program prepares students for life on the forefront of research and future trends of exercise science. Graduates will be prepared for clinical settings, and will have an outstanding foundation for future endeavors in education, health and wellness, or on a PhD track.

Students in this Exercise Science master’s program will develop into scholarly clinicians who provide high quality care while contributing to the advancement of the field of Athletic Training.

A Master of Science degree in Exercise Science specializes in the areas of human performance, strength and conditioning, clinical exercise physiology. The faculty members are engaged in research dealing with both basic and applied aspects of human performance. The Exercise Science Graduate program curriculum is endorsed by NSCA Education Recognition Program (ERP). Graduate students at UWF are expected to sit for nationally recognized certifications from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and/or the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), depending on the student’s professional interest.

What sets this program apart from others is the opportunity students have to gain practical skills and experience in the clinical aspects of exercise testing and rehabilitation, thanks in part to a close partnership with two nearby medical facilities.

Students have the flexibility to craft this degree into something this is interesting for themselves and aligns with their career goals. They have the opportunity to focus in either Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Motor Learning, COmmunity and PUblic Health, or Sport and Exercise Psychology. Also, as part of their capstone, students can choose to write a traditional thesis, a comprehensive paper related to their particular interests, or conduct an Experiential Learning Opportunity (ELO). As part of the ELO, a student applies peer-reviewed literature to an internship or work experience as part of a case study.

VCU’s Master’s program is offered through the department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, and is designed for prospective students who already hold teaching credentials and are seeking to develop their qualifications and knowledge base. This program places emphasis on statistical analysis and research design as well as applied knowledge of all aspects of health and movement science.

As part of the program at Wake Forest, all students will complete a thesis under the direction of a graduate faculty member. One unique aspect of this program is that during the first year, all students will serve an internship in the Wake Forest University Healthy Exercise & Lifestyle ProgramS (HELPS).

WHile 15 of the 30 credits are required courses, the rest of the curriculum is very flexible and will be completed with a combination of elective courses and also students can choose between either doing a Thesis, a Master’s Essay, or an internship as part of the students Culminating Experience.

This Master’s in exercise science program offers several tracks – Applied Sports Performance, Clinical Exercise Physiology, Sport and Exercise Psychology. Prepare yourself for work in clinical settings or for further academic study by focusing on topics such as cardiac rehabilitation, motor learning, adult fitness, group dynamics, and more, statistics and data science, and more.

The Exercise Science Program at West Chester University is heavy on research topics, but also prepares students with coursework related to biomechanics, neurophysiology, and applied exercise and sport physiology to give students a balanced course load of applied studies and research.

This program is unique in that it takes advantage of the campus’ high altitude location and students learn specific about the human body and how it performs at higher altitudes.

Students can choose from three options. As part of their program they can research and write a thesis, culminate the program with an internship, or do standard coursework to receive their Master’s Degree. All options require examination, but the thesis option requires an oral exam. No matter what track a student decides on, they will be well prepared to advance their careers and also have access to opportunities to work with local, state and regional organizations that welcome WSU students with open arms.