Exercise Physiology (MS)
Strength and Conditioning Leadership
The MS in Exercise Physiology program offers a specialized Strength and Conditioning concentration, developed in collaboration with the Athletic Department, that meets NSCA standards and includes hands-on internships with experienced professionals. By combining rigorous coursework with practical application, the program ensures that students are ready to take on leadership roles, paving the way for their future success.
Course Catalog
Master of Science in Exercise Physiology (EXP MS)
Unit: College of Education and Human Development (GE)
Department: Health and Sport Sciences
Program Webpage
Academic Plan Code(s): EXP_MS
Program Information
Students who complete the Master of Science degree in Exercise Physiology are prepared to pursue a number of career options. Graduates from our program have continued their education by completing the PhD degree in fields such as exercise physiology, physiology, biochemistry, while others continue to the MD. Many students have pursued careers in allied health fields such as nursing and physical therapy as well as in such fields as aviation physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, corporate wellness, and ergonomics.
The MS in Exercise Physiology program prepares students to sit for examinations to qualify for certifications offered by private organizations including the American College of Sports Medicine, the National Strength & Conditioning Association, and the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association. These certifications are sometimes preferred or required for employment in specific settings (e.g., hospitals, college campuses) within the exercise physiology field. However, the program is not designed to prepare students for any professional licensure issued by any US state or other jurisdiction.
Because many of our students seek to work in the fields of cardiac rehabilitation and corporate wellness, the curriculum is structured to satisfy the preliminary requirements for certification as "exercise technologist" or "exercise specialist" as set by the American College of Sports Medicine. The curriculum provides students the necessary knowledge base and coursework to satisfy entrance into the certification process (which is under the control of the American College of Sports Medicine and requires both a written and practical exam).
Admission Requirements
- Complete a graduate application for admission.
- Earning an undergraduate major (exercise science, kinesiology, physical therapy, medicine, physiology, nursing, biology, chemistry, etc.) with a Grade-Point Average ≥2.75 on a 4-point scale. All applicants must submit official transcripts showing all degrees awarded and all undergraduate and graduate work (all courses) completed from each accredited college/university previously attended.
- Completion of all prerequisite courses from the following list with a grade ≥3.0 on a 4-point scale: Exercise Physiology; Biomechanics/Structural Kinesiology; Anatomy & Physiology (minimum of six (6) credit hours).
- A resume where candidates will describe the experience they have accumulated in the fields of exercise science, exercise physiology, sport science, and/or strength and conditioning and a personal statement (500 words or less) where candidates will explain their interest in the program and professional objectives.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- All applicants for whom English is a second language must also submit official TOEFL scores of 80 or higher on the internet-based test, 213 or higher on the computer-based test. English proficiency can also be met by submitting official IELTS scores of at least 6.5 overall band score from the academic module exam or official Duolingo overall score of 105.
- Following review of materials listed above, eligible candidates will be invited to an interview with the selection committee where they will be provided with information about the program and will further discuss the content of their application.
Degree Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| EXP 501 | Applied Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| EXP 503 | Clinical Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| EXP 600 | Exercise Biochemistry | 3 |
| EXP 601 | Laboratory Methods in Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| EXP 603 | Seminar in Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| EXP 605 | Human Physiology | 3 |
| EXP 606 | Practicum in Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| EXP 607 | Neuromuscular Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| EXP 611 | Advanced Cardiorespiratory Physiology with ECG | 3 |
| HSS 604 | Research Methods in HSS | 3 |
| Capstone Courses (select one) | 6 | |
EXP 620 | Exercise Physiology Internship | |
EXP 699 | Thesis | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 36 | |
Note: Students will chose either EXP 620 Exercise Physiology Internship (six (6) credit hours) or EXP 699 Thesis (six (6) credit hours).
Exercise Physiology (MS) In Depth
Exercise physiologists work in health promotion, fitness development, colleges and universities, clinical rehabilitation, and sport and athletic programs. Hence, they are hired as:
- sports and wellness program instructors and directors
- strength coaches for college, university and professional sports programs
- teachers at institutions of higher learning (i.e., if they have a PhD)
- researchers in companies that make physiological equipment for testing and evaluation
- managers and exercise leaders in corporate wellness programs
- instructors in health and fitness clubs
- supervisors of specialized health, fitness, wellness, or lifestyle programs in correctional services, police, fire, and emergency response organizations
- fitness instructors in YMCAs, spa and resort centers
- exercise specialists in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs
- fitness directors and managers in the military (such as the air force and army)
- exercise technologists in cardiology suites
- fitness instructors and supervisors at the state, regional, and national levels in sports and athletic programs
- sports consultants in areas of psychology and training, biomechanics, efficiency and metabolism, and nutrition
- electrophysiology technologists in hospital settings
Research Job Opportunities
Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for all fitness workers were expected to increase 29 percent from 2008-2018, www.bls.gov. While opportunities may vary for exercise physiologists, jobs will be created by the increasing population and the need for research in exercise science. In November 2011, PayScale.com reported that most exercise physiologists earned $26,703-$53,951 annually, including bonuses. Among the factors that PayScale.com cited as influencing pay were experience and the certification an individual holds.
Department of Health & Sport Sciences
College of Education & Human Development
Room 105F - SAC E
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY 40292
502-852-6645
FAQ: Exercise Physiology (MS)
Once you are admitted to the program, you may request to transfer up to 6 credit hours if your UofL advisor approves the request. Transfer requests are then submitted to the School of Interdisciplinary and Graduate Studies.
Once you are enrolled in the program, faculty advisors are assigned to each student. You will be notified in your admission letter, upon acceptance, of the identity of your faculty advisor.
Students must meet with their advisor at the end of each semester to plan the next semester and discuss any questions or concerns. However, students may meet with their advisor more often if necessary.
Students in the program are expected to maintain a 3.0 GPA. If the GPA falls below a 3.0, then the student may be placed on academic probation.
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