In our program, you'll refine your understanding of exercise physiology alongside a group of peers. Through collaborative research and lab work, you'll explore the physiological responses to physical activity and apply evidence-based practices to promote health and enhance performance.
What is an MS in Exercise Physiology degree?
100% of responding MSEP graduates are working or continuing education in the field.
Why earn an MS in Exercise Physiology?
Expand your career prospects by continuing your education with a Master’s degree. At ¼ø»Æʦapp, our program cultivates proficient researchers who can apply results to everyday problems. You’ll conduct studies yourself in our top-notch learning labs and be prepared to communicate your results in a professional and clear manner.
Accelerated pathway
Complete your MSEP degree in as little as 12 months.
State-of-the-art facilities
Classes take place in the Wellness and Recreation Center equipped with labs, research gear, and group exercise room.
Versatile degree
Our degree builds pathways to careers in research, education, nutrition, PT, OT, PA, cardiac rehab, & strength training.
3+1 program for SAU students
Earn your BS in Exercise Science and MS in Exercise Physiology in four years with our 3+1 program.
Continuing education
¼ø»Æʦapp offers doctoral degrees in OT and PT–common paths for MSEP grads.
What you’ll learn in your MS in Exercise Physiology Program
In our Master of Science in Exercise Physiology program, you’ll learn to combat exercise-related disease and illness, be able to understand and participate in research related to exercise science, and recognize the importance of evidence-based practice.
- Comprehend and interpret scholarly literature
- Formulate and test research questions and hypotheses
- Communicate scientific findings to a variety of audiences
- Integrate current research into practical application
Explore MS in Exercise Physiology courses
This degree will require you to complete a total of 35 credits
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| KIN 509 | Exercise Pharmacology | 3 credits |
| KIN 510 | Biomechanics | 3 credits |
| KIN 512 | Sport Nutrition | 3 credits |
| KIN 625 | Advanced Physiology | 5 credits |
| KIN 615 | Advanced Exercise Physiology | 3 credits |
How much does an MS in Exercise Physiology cost?
The cost of your MSEP degree will depend on several factors, including the number of credits you take per semester and course options. New students also pay a $10 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
15-month program
| Expense | Summer Session I | Per Semester (Fall or Spring) | Summer Session II | Total Program Cost** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total tuition ($855/credit hour)* | $7,695 | $9,405 - $10,260 | $3,420 | $29,925 - $30,780 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $140 | $70 | $490 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $7,835 | $9,545 - $10,400 | $3,490 | $30,415 - $31,270 |
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**Estimate based on summer start date. Total includes two summer sessions, and one each in the fall and spring.
¼ø»Æʦapp is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
How does SAU support MSEP students?
¼ø»Æʦapp’s MS in Exercise Physiology faculty offer diverse areas of expertise within the field, including health coaching, health promotion, physiology, biomechanics, fitness programming, animal research, and both clinical and performance aspects of exercise science. Our faculty are dedicated to student success and facilitate health coaching and research opportunities alongside students.
MSEP program faculty
Other support resources
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there cost savings available for MS in Exercise Physiology?
At ¼ø»Æʦapp, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of resources to help make college more affordable for our students.
Graduate assistantships
Graduate assistantships can reduce your total tuition cost or provide income as you pursue your degree. Check our employment page for open positions.
Transfer previous credits to SAU
You may be able to transfer up to 17 previous credits toward your MSEP, saving you time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Military benefits
Veterans, service members, and their children and spouses may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Learn about military benefits.
What’s on campus for MSEP students?
Enjoy the use of our state-of-the-art Wellness and Recreation Center (WRC). Built in 2017, the building’s features include a 200-meter, six-lane track; pole vault; long- and triple-jump pits; four basketball/volleyball courts; and a two-story cardio/weightlifting workout center.
Admission requirements for a MS in Exercise Physiology
Start your exercise physiology career at ¼ø»Æʦapp. Here are the admissions requirements for our MS in Exercise Physiology program.
- Complete an application for graduate admission at ¼ø»Æʦapp
- Submit official grade transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended
- Provide two Letters of Recommendation for the MSEP Program (pdf). One must be from a former or current professor.
- Provide a personal statement. Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you are pursuing this degree along and what has prepared you for the program
- GRE or MCAT scores may be waived for some applicants
Prerequisites for a MS in Exercise Physiology
Here are the prerequisites for students entering ¼ø»Æʦapp’s MSEP program.
- Undergraduate degree in exercise science or science-based major from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Required courses: Undergraduate anatomy and physiology (SAU students must take BIOL 230 Human A&P I & BIOL 232 Human A&P II or BIOL 205 Essentials of Human A&P)
- Recommended courses: 4 credits physics (which should include Newtonian mechanics); 3-4 credits exercise physiology (SAU equivalent prerequisite: KIN 390 Exercise Physiology or KIN 366 Applied Exercise Physiology)
Application deadlines for the MSEP program
Applications for our MSEP program are most commonly submitted for the summer cohort but also accepted for fall and spring start dates. Priority is given to applications received six months prior to the cohort start date.
International student requirements
If you live outside the U.S. or aren’t a U.S. citizen, you may be considered an international student. Here are additional requirements for international students.
- International students must obtain a student visa from the U.S. Department of State before they can enter the United States to study.
- International students must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS
- TOEFL score required for admission is 79
- IELTS score required for admission is 6.5
- International students must submit financial documentation to show that they have the financial resources to support themselves throughout their studies. This documentation may include bank statements, letters of support from sponsors, and scholarship awards.
What can I do with an MS in Exercise Physiology degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. ¼ø»Æʦapp can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our MSEP program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Exercise physiologist
- Exercise specialist
- Fitness director
- Cardiac rehabilitation specialist
- Strength and conditioning coach
- Researcher
Potential employment settings
- Hospitals and clinics
- Fitness facilities
- Collegiate athletics
- Schools
- Government agencies
- Rehabilitation centers
Traits of an exercise physiologists
- Communication
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Professionalism
- Adaptive
- Person-centered
Industry facts
- Employment of exercise physiologists is projected to grow 10 percent by 2032.
- 59% of exercise physiologists are in a self-employed work environment.
For more information on exercise physiology employment and wages, visit the .
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