The Master of Science in Exercise Science (MS)
Program of Study
The program of study leading to the Master of Science on Exercise Science degree consists of four core courses (15 credit hours) and courses in a selected concentration area (21credit hours).
Core Courses
Required
Students must take 6 credit hours of EXSC 701 or 6 hours of EXSC 799.
Concentration Courses (21 hours)
Choose one concentration area from below: (4 courses)
Clinical Exercise Physiology
| EXSC 712 | Cardiovascular Physiology | 3 |
| EXSC 732 | Health PromotionAcross Lifespa | 3 |
| EXSC 753 | Psychology for Clinical Population in Clinical Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| EXSC 761 | Mgmt & Leader in Clinical Exer | 3 |
| EXSC 763 | Chronic Disease Management | 3 |
| EXSC 764 | Perspective Special Population | 3 |
| EXSC 765 | Exercise Testing and Prescription for Clinical Populations | 3 |
Sport Performance and Rehabilitation
Additional Program Requirement
Passing Comprehensive Score Exam (non-thesis students)
Additional Requirements
Non-thesis students must pass a comprehensive exam or sit for an approved certification exam (ACSM-CEP or NCSA-CSCS)
Total Credit Hours: 36
Master of Science (M.S.) in Exercise Science
Lander University offers an online program leading to a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Exercise Science. This degree equips professionals in physical education, sport, fitness, health and wellness, and healthcare to expand their understanding of the field of exercise science in one of two areas of emphasis: Sport Performance and Rehabilitation, or Clinical Exercise Physiology.
The goals of the M.S. in Exercise Science include:
• Prepare students for professional excellence by providing comprehensive knowledge in exercise physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, and nutrition, fostering advanced competencies in exercise assessment, prescription, and intervention tailored to diverse populations.
• Ensure graduates can design, implement, and evaluate safe and effective health promotion, disease prevention, and sport performance & rehabilitation programs based on critical evaluation and application of current research in alignment with accreditation and industry standards.
• Equip students with advanced communication and collaboration skills to effectively engage with clients, interdisciplinary healthcare professionals, and community stakeholders, optimizing health, fitness, and performance outcomes through comprehensive instruction and hands-on internship experiences.
• Foster the ability to critically evaluate scientific literature, apply evidence-based practice, and utilize problem-solving skills in clinical and non-clinical exercise settings.
• Prepare students for doctoral programs (e.g., PhD in Exercise Science or Doctor of Physical Therapy) through rigorous coursework and research training and encourage graduates to pursue specialty certifications, and professional involvement in organizations such as ACSM and NSCA to maintain competency throughout their careers.
• Prepare graduates to advocate for the promotion of physical activity, health equity, and exercise science within academic, clinical, and community settings.
• Instill commitment to ethical decision-making, professional standards, and legal responsibilities as outlined by accreditation and professional crediting bodies.
Admission
All applicants must have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university and submit official transcripts of all institutions attended to the Office of Admissions. Graduate students must complete undergraduate coursework in anatomy and physiology prior to admission, with exercise physiology and exercise testing and prescription coursework preferred.
Degree Requirements
Completion of 36 credit hours of graduate work. Non-thesis students must pass a comprehensive exam or sit for an approved certification exam (ACSM-CEP or NSCA-CSCS) (non-thesis students).