Exercise Science, M.S.

The Department of Kinesiology

The Master of Science in Exercise Science is designed to provide opportunities for advanced study and applied research in exercise science. The program requires 30 units of advanced coursework. Students work with an advisor to design a coherent program of study. This program includes courses in research methods and statistics, along with selected courses from a broad area of topics including but not limited to: metabolic and neuromuscular exercise physiology, cardiovascular and respiratory exercise physiology, design and implementation of resistance training programs, health promotion, and biomechanics. With advisement, students are also able to incorporate an internship, supervised work experience opportunity, or an independent study course into their program. Students conclude their degree requirements by selecting a culminating experience which might take the form of a Master’s Thesis, a Master’s Project, or a Comprehensive Exam.

Program overview:

The Master of Science in Exercise Science is for students interested in advanced studies and applied research, in the fitness, wellness, and sport applications of exercise science. The Department houses a 3,000 sq. ft. Human Performance Lab with state-of-the-art research-grade equipment. The program of study will prepare students for advanced degrees and/or for professional growth and advancement in fitness, wellness, sport, or other related settings. Employment as a Graduate Teaching Associate within the Department may be available for qualified students. A variety of local internships in the health-related, performance-related, and clinical settings may also be available.

Degree Requirements

Core Requirements (6 units)

KINES 230 - Statistical Inference in Kinesiology Units: 3
KINES 231 - Research Methods in Kinesiology Units: 3

Exercise Science Coursework (15-21 units)

Students will take a minimum of 15 units from the following courses:

KINES 222 - Biomechanics Units: 3
KINES 232 - Environmental Exercise Physiology Units: 3
KINES 233 - Metabolic and Neuromuscular Exercise Physiology Units: 3
KINES 234 - Cardiovascular and Respiratory Exercise Physiology Units: 3
KINES 237 - Design and Implementation of Resistance Training Programs Units: 3
KINES 265 - Psychobiology of Sport and Exercise Units: 3
KINES 285 - Internship in Kinesiology Units: 3-6
KINES 290 - Independent Study Units: 3

Electives (3-6 units)

Any KINES 200-level course(s) or approved outside area course(s)

Culminating experience (6 units)

KINES 298 - Project Units: 3-6 (for 6 units)
KINES 299 - Thesis Units: 6
Comprehensive Exam (0 units) plus KINES 285 - Internship in Kinesiology for 3 units and one other KINES 200-level course or approved outside area course Units: 6

Total (30 units)

Admission Requirements

The Master of Science in Exercise Science assumes undergraduate preparation equivalent to a California State University, Fresno major in kinesiology. Students may be required to take 12-15 prerequisite units.
Three reference letters should be submitted directly from the Referees to the Graduate Program Coordinator.
All students must pass a written qualifying exam before advancement to candidacy. The university graduate-level writing skills requirement is met by successful completion of this step. See the Graduate Program Coordinator for more information.