An Exercise Science grad student supervises a workout.

Master of Science in Applied Exercise Physiology

Exercise physiology is a growing field with a unique study of the human body and how physical activity can improve health and wellness for people of all ages and all stages of fitness.

Degrees & Offerings
  • M.S.
Location
  • Bloomsburg
Department
College
Program Contact
Exercise Science Graduate Program Coordinator, Professor of Exercise Science
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Program Details

MS Applied Exercise Physiology students and faculty standing in a weight room
  • Program Length – Program includes 36 credit hours​. Most students complete in two years.
  • Program Delivery – Taught 100% in-person at the Bloomsburg campus​. 
  • Flexible Start Dates – Applications are accepted for the spring, summer, and fall semesters.
  • Labs and Facilities – Bloomsburg's campus includes an Exercise Physiology Lab​, Resistance Training Lab, and​ Body Composition Lab.
  • Coursework – Students complete graduate-level courses in exercise science with clinical and research internships that encompass the full spectrum of health, including cardiac rehabilitation and physiological assessment training for optimal performance.
  • Graduate Assistantships – Available within the department and across the university.
  • Who Should Apply – Great fit for students majoring in exercise science, biology, or health sciences​ as an undergraduate.
  • Preparation for Doctoral Programs – Can also serve as excellent preparation for advanced study, with recent graduates pursuing doctoral degrees at University of Connecticut, Florida State University, Pennsylvania State University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Pittsburgh, Slippery Rock University, Syracuse University, Virginia Tech University, and Thomas Jefferson Medical School.

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Courses and Curriculum

  • Advanced Knowledge: The program offers in-depth understanding of how the body responds and adapts to exercise. This knowledge is crucial for creating effective training programs and for advancing in fields such as sports science, athletic coaching, or physical therapy. 
  • Research Opportunities: Engaging in research projects allows you to contribute to the field, stay updated with the latest developments, and potentially pave the way for further educational pursuits, such as a Ph.D
  • Career Advancement: Holding a Master's degree can significantly enhance your career prospects. It's often a prerequisite for higher-level positions and can set you apart in a competitive job market. Roles such as exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, and wellness coordinator become more accessible. 
  • Clinical Application: You'll be able to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, working with diverse populations ranging from healthy individuals to those with chronic diseases. This practical experience is invaluable and highly regarded by employers.

Thesis Option Non-Thesis Option

Note: Degree requirements effective for enrolled students beginning Fall 2023. All enrolled students, including matriculating students prior to Fall 2023, can review their degree program requirements and track progress to degree completion with our degree audit and advisement tool, Degree Works.

  • Online application and application fee.
  • Official Transcripts from any colleges attended.
  • A bachelor's degree in the biological or allied health sciences or a related field is recommended.
  • Undergraduate prerequisites include Anatomy and Physiology I & II and Exercise Physiology.
  • Undergraduate deficiencies may be addressed while working toward the master's degree (without credit earned toward the degree).
  • Additionally, applicants must have an undergraduate QPA of at least 3.0 to be fully accepted into the Graduate Program. Students with a QPA of 2.7 – 2.99 will be considered for provisional acceptance. Graduate Record Exam scores may be requested.
In 2023-24, the M.S. program reported the following outcome data:
  • Overall retention rate: 100%
  • National certification exam pass rate: 100%
  • Culminating experience (internship and / or thesis) pass rate: 100%
  • Graduate placement rate: 100%
  • 100% secured full-time employment in a related field
Recent graduates have earned full assistantships for doctoral study at:
  • University of Connecticut
  • Florida State University
  • Pennsylvania State University
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Pittsburgh
  • Slippery Rock University
  • Syracuse University
  • Virginia Tech University
  • Thomas Jefferson Medical School
  • Q: When can I start?
    A: Applications are accepted for the spring, summer, and fall semesters.
  • Q: How is the program delivered?
    A: Taught 100% in-person at the Bloomsburg campus​.
  • Q: How long will it take to complete the degree?
    A: Program includes 36 credit hours​. Most students complete in two years.
  • Q: Do I need a degree in exercise science in order to apply?
    A: No- It's a great fit for students majoring in exercise science, biology, or health sciences​ as an undergraduate.
  • Q: Do I need to take the GRE in order to apply?
    A: No- the GRE is not required for admission.
  • Q: What career options when I graduate? 
    A: Your career options will be varied- but you’ll be in high demand! Recent alumni have gone into Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehabilitation, Clinical Exercise Physiology, Physical Therapy, Strength and Conditioning, Corporate Wellness, Athletic Training, Clinical Research, Teaching, and Health and Fitness Instructing.

ONWARD AND UPWARD

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Accreditation
The Commission on Accreditation of the Allied Health Education Programs is the largest programmatic accreditor of the health sciences professions.
100%
Employment Rate for Graduates
Recent graduates have accepted positions at: Geisinger Medical Center, Johns Hopkins Cardiac Rehabilitation Center, the Cleveland Clinic, Sensor Medics Corporation, Air Products Corporation, U.S. Naval Academy, & Cincinnati Sports Research Center.
NSCA Education Recognition Program Logo
ERP distinguishes schools with standardized, approved strength, and conditioning or personal training curricula in undergraduate and graduate settings designed to prepare students for the NSCA-CPT® and CSCS® certifications.

Careers

This two-year curriculum prepares students for careers in areas such as Cardiac Rehabilitation, Clinical Exercise Physiology, Corporate Fitness and Wellness, Health and Fitness Promotion, and Strength and Conditioning, as well as Teaching and Research in Higher Education. Graduates also pursue advanced degrees in a variety of Allied Health fields including Chiropractic Medicine, Medicine, Nursing, Physical Therapy, Physician’s Assistant, and Occupational Therapy, as well as Doctoral Degrees in all areas of Exercise Science.

Potential Job Opportunities

  • Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehabilitation
  • Personal Trainer
  • Physical Therapist
  • Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Corporate Wellness
  • Athletic Trainer
  • Exercise Specialist
  • Health and Fitness Instructor
  • Clinical Exercise Physiologist
  • Clinical Researcher

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M.S. Applied Exercise Physiology

Program Faculty

Joseph

Joseph Andreacci

  • Exercise Science Graduate Program Coordinator, Professor of Exercise Science
  • Bloomsburg

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