Graduate Programs

Master of Science

in Exercise Physiology

Master of Science in Exercise Physiology

The Master of Science in Exercise Physiology (MSEP) is designed for students who are interested in careers in Exercise Physiology or related fields in which this certification and title are applicable. This is a 38-hour program that spans over two years. Upon graduating, students will gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities based on the competencies set forth by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) to serve as an allied healthcare provider to various patient populations and settings. Courses will exercise testing and prescription within various populations ranging from those with clinical conditions to elite athletes. Students will also perform research within the field of exercise physiology, develop leadership and communication skills, and be able to collaborate with other health professions.

Career Outlook

Exercise physiology jobs are available in hospitals to the largest degree and also in physicians’ and other health practitioners’ offices. Outside of the health and medical realm, there are also jobs in the personal care and recreation industries, and these are the highest paying jobs in the exercise physiology category. This program will support individuals seeking employment in both clinical and non-clinical areas, including the following:

Clinical

  • Clinical exercise physiologist
  • Cardiac rehabilitation specialist
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation specialist
  • Cancer exercise specialist

 

Non-Clinical

  • Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Health Coach
  • Entrepreneur in the Fitness Market
  • Personal Trainer
  • Fitness instructor
  • Corporate Fitness Specialist

Admissions Requirements​

  • Official transcripts of any bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, with a 2.75 GPA.
  • Completion of pre-requisite coursework listed below.

Undergraduate Degree and Course Requirements for Admission

West Liberty University Graduates (Internal)

  • B.S. in Exercise Physiology
  • B.S. in similar science or healthcare-related field, including courses in Biology; Chemistry Physics; Psychology; and Anatomy and Physiology

Graduates of Other Institutions (External)

  • B.S. or B.A. in similar science or healthcare-related field, including the following courses:
    • Anatomy and Physiology
    • Exercise Physiology or Exercise Science
    • Kinesiology or Biomechanics
    • Nutrition
    • General Psychology
    • Personal Health/Wellness
    • Statistics

Coursework

Fall  Year 1

EP 510 Advanced Exercise Physiology I
EP 511 Research Methods (Online)
EP 512 Principles of Strength and Conditioning

Spring Year 1

EP 520 Advanced Exercise Physiology II 
EP 521 Scientific Writing (online)
EP 522 Legal & Professional Considerations (online)

Fall  Year 2

EP 550 Advanced Biomechanics 
EP 551 Pathophysiology & Pharmacology (online) 
EP 580 Exercise Physiology Thesis I

Spring Year 2

EP 560 Clinical Testing and Program Design
EP 565 Advanced Injury Prevention
EP 581 Exercise Physiology Thesis II

Cost of Attendance

For more information please visit Business Office Webpage.

Your Future in Exercise Physiology

Percent Change in Employment 2029

Exercise PhysiologistExercise Physiologist11%

Healthcare diagnosingHealthcare diagnosing10%

All OccupationsAll Occupations4%

The employment of exercise physiologists is projected to grow 11% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand may rise as healthcare providers emphasize exercise and preventive care to help patients recover from cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. About 1,400 openings for exercise physiologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/exercise-physiologists.htm

Find out more about the MS in Exercise Physiology

Dr. Jason Metz
MSEP Program Director

Main Hall 118D
304-336-8830

jason.metz@westliberty.edu

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