MS in Clinical Exercise Physiology

This nationally accredited graduate program trains students for clinical and research careers related to exercise and physical activity to prevent and treat chronic health-related conditions.

Gain strong foundational knowledge and hands-on experience as you prepare for:

Careers in cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, diabetes prevention, cancer prevention and rehabilitation, obesity prevention and treatment, and other related careers
Additional training programs in areas such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other related disciplines
Competitive high-quality doctoral programs

REQUEST INFO

View Tuition

Apply Now

Program Facts

Degree Type

Master of Science

Program Duration

Full-time (non-thesis): 12 months. Part-time (non-thesis): 18-24 months. Students completing a thesis can complete the degree requirements in 18-24 months.

Time Commitment

Full-time or Part-time

Term of Enrollment

Fall

Course Requirements

30 credits (non-thesis); 36 credits (thesis)

Application Deadline

Rolling admission. Priority for graduate assistantships will be given to those applications received by January 15.

Admissions Requirements

GRE exam not required

Program Overview

The Master of Science (MS) program in Clinical Exercise Physiology prepares students for clinical, applied, or research careers focused on preventing and treating chronic health-related conditions.

National Accreditation

CAAHEP logo Our MS in Clinical Exercise Physiology degree is fully accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This national accreditation — considered the gold standard in the industry — is based on a rigorous review of our curriculum, faculty, facilities, and more.

Learn Why Accreditation Matters

Degree Requirements

Non-Thesis Requirements
- Comprehensive Examination is required based on key courses within the program. A minimum of 80% is required on this comprehensive examination.
- Clinical Health-Fitness Practicum is required.
Thesis Option Requirements
- Comprehensive Examination is required based on key courses within the program. A minimum of 80% is required on this comprehensive examination.
- Thesis is required.

I really enjoyed the hands-on learning component and the ability to apply our knowledge to real-world scenarios. You learn so much by working and collaborating with your peers. 
Hannah Corey - Clinical Exercise Physiology Student

The professors in my department were fantastic instructors, and they have all helped me professionally develop.
Alexis Thrower - Clinical Exercise Physiology Student

Take the Next Step

Apply Now Learn About Tuition Request Info

Prerequisites

Applicants need to demonstrate undergraduate coursework in human anatomy, human physiology, exercise physiology, and exercise testing and prescription. Applicants without this training can be admitted provisionally and will be required to take these undergraduate courses prior to full admission.

Curriculum

A minimum of 30 credits for the non-thesis degree and 36 credits for the thesis degree option are required for the Clinical Exercise Physiology degree.
Students must complete a comprehensive examination based on core competencies prior to graduation. Students will be eligible to sit for the comprehensive examination after completion of a minimum of 24 credits. Students will be provided a study guide/directions to assist in their preparation for the comprehensive examination.
Students must complete courses in the appropriate order as outlined on the Plan of Study to be given permission to register for the appropriate courses in this degree.
All students must complete a minimum of 30 credits in the non-thesis option and a minimum of 36 credits in the thesis option.

Loading…

Career Pathways

Job Functions

Careers in cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, diabetes prevention, cancer prevention and rehabilitation, obesity prevention and treatment, and other related careers.
Preparation for additional training programs in areas such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other related disciplines.
Preparation for admission to high quality doctoral programs.

Graduate Placement Data

83% positive placement rate* – Students who received a job placement or were accepted to a graduate school to further their education
Of those with employment:
- 50% employed as exercise physiologists in clinical settings
- 40% employed in a research role focused on exercise and physical activity in clinical population
- 10% employed as fitness specialist in commercial gym

* Data collected from 2023 graduates, which is the most recent class for which data is available

Program Faculty

Program Coordinator