Master's of Science in Exercise and Health Studies

Exercise Science Program Concentration

     The exercise science program is designed to provide breadth and depth of knowledge in the physiological and psychological functioning of human beings under a variety of environmental, nutritional, and activity conditions. Coursework emphasizes the health benefits and consequences of regular physical activity on physiological, cellular and motor integrity. Students gain hands-on experience working in new laboratories an such assessments and graded exercise stress tests, metabolic, blood lipid, and blood pressure profiles, electro cardiograph, electromyography, video motion measurement, ground reaction force measurement, among others. Cooperative research with faculty and students in other departments or programs (e.g., Zoology, Psychology, Scripps Gerontology Center) is also conducted. Graduated students have been accepted into programs in Physical Therapy, Nursing, Podiatry, and Chiropractic, as well as in medical schools such as the University of Cincinnati, Washington University-St. Louis, Northwestern University, Ohio State University, and the University of Maryland. The Exercise Science degree program area also accommodates students interested in Athletic Training.

The following courses are required for Exercise Science Program majors.

• PHS 615 Knowledge systems in Exercise, Sport and Health Studies (4 cr.)
• PHS 654 Studies in Exercise Behavior (4 cr)
• PHS 681 Human Motor Control and Learning (4 cr)
• PHS 683 Design and Evaluation of Individualized Fitness Programs (4 cr)
• PHS 685 Exercise, Aging, and Health promotion (4 cr)

Health Studies Program Concentration

     The health appraisal and enhancement program is designed to provide breadth and depth of knowledge in the psycho-social and behavioral aspects of wellness. The curriculum emphasizes both cultural and personal determinants of wellness. Furthermore, coursework focuses upon the health benefits and consequences of nutritional, cultural and self-inflicted life-style diseases, and private and public policy concerning health and welfare provision across the lifespan. Students are prepared to work as health educators and dietetic counselors, and planners and coordinators of health care programs in community, worksite, and clinical settings. Students electing to specialize in dietetics are provided opportunities to prepare for the ADA certification examination.

The following courses are required for Health Appraisal and Enhancement Program majors.

• PHS 615 Knowledge systems in Exercise, Sport and Health Studies (4 cr.)
• PHS 654 Studies in Exercise Behavior (4 cr)
• PHS 571 Sport, Leisure, and Aging (4 cr)
• PHS 562 School and Community Health Programs (3 cr)
• PHS 668 Advanced Exercise Physiology (4 cr) OR PHS 685 Exercise, Aging, and Health promotion (4)