Applied Exercise Physiology & Human Performance (MS)

The MS in Applied Exercise Physiology and Human Performance is offered to current students in the form of a 3+2 program. For non-PSU students and PSU alumni, a 2-year program is available. In each program, students can elect the thesis or non-thesis option.

The thesis option will give students the opportunity to develop a research project driven by their own interests in exercise and sport physiology. Thesis students will work closely with a faculty supervisor and will be guided through the thesis process through work in the Graduate Seminar and Graduate Thesis classes.

Students who elect the non-thesis option will complete practicum and internship experiences, which will give them the hands on skills they will need to be successful across a variety of fields in exercise science. Experiences may include work in strength and conditioning, clinical exercise physiology, or general health and wellness. Non-thesis students will work closely with a faculty supervisor and will be guided through the practicum and internship process through work in the Graduate Seminar, Advanced Practicum, and Graduate Internship classes.

Requirements

The Applied Exercise Physiology and Human Performance degree requires the following materials to be submitted through our online application

• Recommended 3.0 or better GPA in undergraduate coursework
• Official transcripts from any/all college level work
• Three professional recommendations
• Current Resume
• Statement of Interest
• NH Residency Verification form (NH residents only)

Deadlines

Admission to the Applied Exercise Physiology and Human Performance degree is only available for the fall semester each year.

Fall 2024 and Fall 2025
Early Decision: June 1
Final Deadline: August 1

*We suggest submitting your documentation at least two weeks prior to the posted date to ensure your application is complete and can be reviewed by the deadline. 

MS Applied Exercise Physiology & Human Performance

• Critically interpret current literature in exercise physiology.
• Explain the acute and chronic effects of resistance and aerobic exercise on metabolism and the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neuromuscular systems.
• Demonstrate competency of the pathophysiology of various chronic diseases and explain the preventative and therapeutic effects of exercise.
• Design, manage, implement assessment and exercise prescriptions for athletic, healthy, and special populations through evidence-based practice.
• Create interventions to modify health behaviors utilizing theoretical frameworks.
• Explain biochemical components of exercise to help better assist exercise prescription and nutritional strategies for both athletes and recreationally active adults.
• Synthesize and disseminate scientific findings from thesis and practicum experiences.
• Apply theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom to practical experiences in clinical and/or applied settings.

• Strength & Conditioning Coach
• Clinical Exercise Physiologist
• Exercise Specialist
• Fitness Director
• Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist
• Researcher

• ACSM’s Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSP-EP)
• ACSM’s Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP)
• NSCA’s Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• NSCA’s Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS)