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Exercise Science, M.S.

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Master of Science in Exercise Science student monitors another students progress on a treadmill.

About the Master of Science in Exercise Science

The M.S. in Exercise Science explores current issues in applying exercise for weight management, cardiopulmonary health, maintaining functional movement across the lifespan, and enhancing athletic performance.

Graduates with a master's degree in exercise science enjoy long-term career flexibility, and can pursue multiple career paths including:

  • Health and wellness coaches in the community or corporate settings
  • Research scientists studying body and mind optimization
  • Strength and conditioning coaches for major sports teams
  • Clinical exercise scientists in state-of-the-art hospitals and clinics
  • Physical (PT) and Occupational (OT) therapists gaining knowledge about human movement before PT and OT school
  • Physicians obtaining research experience and knowledge of human physiology before medical school
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    Program Information

    Degree

    M.S. in Exercise Science

    Emphases

    N/A

    Required Credit Hours

    30

    Program Type

    Master's Program

    Program Location

    Oxford

    School

    School of Applied Sciences

    Duration

    2 years

    M.S. in Exercise Science Requirements and Application Process

    Choosing the right graduate program can be difficult enough, so getting the application right shouldn't add to your stress. We've gathered all the info you need to apply to the masters program in Exercise Science program to make things as easy as possible.

    The Master's in Exercise Science requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate study.

    Students must take minimum of 12 hours of the core curriculum, 6 hours of supporting curriculum, 6 hours of research design and statistics, and either 6 hours of thesis or 6 hours of internship or 6 additional hours of adviser-approved elective course work as the capstone learning experience.

    Applications for admissions to graduate programs must be submitted to the University of Mississippi Graduate School through the online application process. 

    Students must submit an online application through the Graduate School website. Complete online applications will include:

      • Evidence (official transcripts) of an awarded baccalaureate degree in a related field from an accredited college or university.
      • Evidence of academic excellence and readiness (GPA or GPA equivalent ≥ 3.0). *If GPA or GPA equivalent < 3.0, official GRE scores (taken within 5 years of application to the program) can be submitted as evidence of academic readiness but are not required otherwise.
      • A 1- to 2-page statement of purpose detailing objectives, motivation, and qualifications to pursue a master’s degree.
      • An up-to-date resume or curriculum vitae.
      • A letter of recommendation preferably from an academic professor familiar with academic/professional qualifications that demonstrate readiness for a master’s degree.
      • *Official English proficiency test scores (within 2 years of applying to the program) for non-native English speakers.

    Instructions for submitting application materials such as test scores and transcripts can be found on the Graduate School website.

    For questions about the submission process, contact the Graduate School.

    What courses will you take to earn a Master of Science in Exercise Science?

    Check out some of the key classes you’ll encounter as a MSES graduate student. Curious about what else is offered? Browse the full catalog of courses.

    See the Course Catalog

    GR

    EXSC 6090: Motor Behavior

    3 credits

    This course is designed to teach the student the neurobiological bases of motor control, a central component of research and teaching in Exercise Science. Motor behavior involves perception and action. The classes will focus on human information processing, the functional organization of the motor system (voluntary and involuntary movements), and the basic principles of motor learning. Students will learn experimental approaches to investigate motor behavior and improve motor learning.

    GR

    EXSC 6140: Cardiovascular Physiology

    3 credits

    This course is designed to provide the student with an in-depth understanding of the cardiovascular system with an emphasis placed on understanding the acute and chronic cardiovascular responses to physical stressors such as exercise. The major content areas will include an overview of cardiac physiology, hemodynamics, blood pressure regulation, control of blood flow, and cardiovascular adaptations to exercise training in health and disease.

    GR

    EXSC 6160: Exercise Physiology II

    3 credits

    In this course we will conduct an advanced study of the physical, biochemical, and environmental factors influencing physical performance.

    What does MS in Exercise Science look like on the job market?

    89K

    Median salary for Occupational Therapists in 2022.

    97K

    Median salary for Physical Therapists in 2022.

    14%

    Projected percent change in employment opportunities for Athletic Trainers 2022 to 2032.

    M.S. in Exercise Science Jobs

    • Personal Trainer
    • Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach
    • Kinesiologist
    • Massage Therapist
    • Exercise Physiologist
    • Fitness Center Manager
    • Athletic Director
    • Physical Therapy Assistant

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    Thomas Andre

    Meet the Graduate Program Coordinator

    The Master of Science in Athletic Science prepares students to lead in performance training, clinical exercise, and wellness fields. With a focus on human movement and applied research, the program supports diverse career goals. 


    We're here to answer any questions you have about a master's degree in Exercise Science!

    Thomas Andre

    Associate Professor of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management

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