Concordia University of Chicago (CUC)
Online Master’s in Exercise Science
Explore our 100% online exercise science master’s degree program to start helping others achieve their health and fitness goals through flexible study options, specialized concentrations and evidence-based practices.
Use Your Talents to Improve the Lives of Others
Application Deadline: April 30, 2025
Classes Start: May 5, 2025
#3 Online Master’s in Sports Science
#11 Best Online
College 2024
$575 Per
Credit
Master of Applied Exercise Science Concentrations
The CUC Advantage
As a Christian-based institution, we are dedicated to preparing the next generation of leaders to live a life fulfilled by purpose and meaning. Because we aim to model Christlike behavior, our doors are open to all. So, bring your curiosity, your personality and your values. Be a living example of what it means to serve a cause greater than yourself by pursuing an education where ideas inspire you, the Gospel lives and forms you and God’s calling takes root. Show the world what it means to stand tall.
About Our Master’s in Applied Exercise Science
Concordia University Chicago’s 100% online Master’s in Exercise Science offers flexible learning and small class sizes, allowing students to engage meaningfully with peers and professors. The program features five concentrations tailored to fit your interests and career goals.
Exercise Physiology
The Exercise Physiology concentration is designed for individuals who aspire to assist clients in reaching their peak physical wellness. Exercise physiologists focus on promoting wellness, helping athletes reach their top performance and preventing illness and injury. Exercise physiology is the study of the body’s response and ability to adapt to physical activity. The exercise physiology concentration features two different tracks, depending on whether or not you hold a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or equivalent.
Human Movement Science
The Human Movement Science concentration will give students the knowledge to develop injury prevention programs and teach students how to help athletes improve functional capacity and correct faulty movement patterns.
Students pursuing this concentration will be prepared to pursue the National Academy of Sports Medicine’s Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES) credential.
Sports Performance Training
The Sports Performance and Training concentration was designed for coaches, athletic trainers and other sports professionals who work with all levels of athletes from high school players up through Olympic competitors. This concentration prepares individuals for the Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) exam.
According to the NASM website, “top teams in the NFL and NBA have now begun requiring the NASM–PES credential.” Accelerate your career with a Sports Performance Training Degree Concentration.
Sports Nutrition
The Sports Nutrition concentration is designed for individuals who aspire to provide sound sports nutrition information to athletes and physically active individuals. The program focuses on using evidence-based principles in designing and implementing exercise and nutrition programs and interpreting research in the field of exercise and sport nutrition. This strand prepares individuals for the Certified Sports Nutrition (CISSN) exam from the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
Strength and Conditioning
Curriculum and Coursework
The Master of Science in Exercise Science curriculum is meticulously crafted to provide students with a thorough understanding of exercise science principles and practices. The program includes a variety of courses, such as:
- Exercise Physiology: Explore the physiological responses to exercise and physical activity, including cardiovascular, respiratory and muscular adaptations.
- Biomechanics: Examine the mechanical aspects of human movement, including kinematics, kinetics and movement analysis.
- Sports Nutrition: Learn the principles of nutrition and their application to athletic performance and exercise.
- Motor Control: Investigate the neural and muscular mechanisms that control human movement.
- Research Methods: Gain skills in designing, conducting and analyzing research studies in exercise science.
- Advanced Exercise Physiology: Delve deeper into the physiological responses to exercise, including exercise testing and prescription.
- Health Promotion: Study the principles and practices of promoting physical activity and health in various populations.
This diverse curriculum ensures that students are well-prepared to excel in various aspects of exercise science, from research and education to practical application in health and fitness settings.
Concentration Overviews
Exercise Physiology
Focus on promoting wellness, enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries. This concentration includes two tracks to accommodate varying academic backgrounds.
Human Movement Science
Learn to design injury prevention programs, improve functional capacity, and correct movement patterns. Prepares students for NASM’s Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES) certification. Additionally, our partnership with the National Academy of Sports Medicine provides access to specialized course content and prepares students for prestigious certifications in fields like sports nutrition and corrective exercise.
Sports Performance Training
Designed for coaches and trainers working with athletes at all levels. This concentration prepares you for the NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) exam, a credential sought by top NFL and NBA teams.
Sports Nutrition
Combine exercise and nutrition expertise to help athletes achieve peak performance. Prepares students for the Certified Sports Nutrition (CISSN) exam from the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
Strength & Conditioning
Develop advanced training techniques and philosophies while preparing for the NSCA-CSCS certification. This program is recognized by the NSCA’s Education Recognition Program for its excellence.
Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Exercise Science
An online Master’s degree in Exercise Science offers numerous advantages for advancing your career in health, fitness and sports performance:
- Advanced Knowledge: Gain expertise in areas like exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition and sports psychology, preparing you for specialized roles and research opportunities.
- Career Advancement: Enhance your qualifications for positions such as exercise physiologist, clinical specialist or sports performance coach, making you more competitive in the job market.
- Specialization Options: Focus on areas like sports performance, clinical exercise physiology or strength and conditioning to align with your career goals and increase job opportunities.
- Research Opportunities: Conduct original studies to contribute to advancements in the field, an asset for academia or doctoral studies.
- Professional Networking: Build connections with faculty, peers and industry professionals for mentorship, collaboration and career growth.
- Practical Skills: Engage in internships and clinical placements to gain real-world experience, improving your employability and industry readiness.
- Certifications: Meet requirements for credentials like Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), enhancing your professional credibility.
This degree equips you with the knowledge, skills and credentials to excel in exercise science. Evaluate how it aligns with your career aspirations to determine if it’s the right path for you.
Program Objectives and Outcomes
The Master of Science in Exercise Science curriculum at Concordia University Chicago is carefully designed to provide students with a comprehensive education. The program’s objectives and outcomes include:
- Scientific Principles: Equip students with a profound understanding of the scientific principles underlying exercise and physical activity.
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Foster the ability to apply exercise science principles to solve real-world problems effectively.
- Career Preparation: Prepare students for successful careers in research, education and industry, focusing on athletic performance enhancement, health promotion and disease prevention.
- Evidence-Based Program Design: Teach students to design and implement evidence-based exercise programs for various populations.
- Effective Communication: Develop the skills necessary to communicate effectively with athletes, coaches and healthcare professionals.
- Advanced Education Preparation: Prepare students for further education in PhD programs, medical school or other healthcare training.
By achieving these objectives, the program ensures that graduates are ready to excel in their chosen careers and contribute meaningfully to the field of exercise science.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for an online Master’s in Exercise Science program generally include:
- A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0.
- GRE or other standardized test scores (some programs may waive this requirement).
- Letters of recommendation.
- A personal statement or essay.
- Prerequisite courses in exercise science or related fields (if required).
It’s crucial to check with the specific institution for detailed admission requirements, as they can vary.
Accreditation and Certification
Accreditation and certification are vital for ensuring the quality and credibility of an online Master’s in Exercise Science program. Look for programs accredited by recognized agencies such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Additionally, consider programs that offer certification opportunities, such as the Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP) or the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certifications. These credentials can significantly enhance your expertise and career prospects.
Career Opportunities with a Master’s in Exercise Science
An online exercise science degree opens doors to diverse career paths across various sectors. Here are some potential opportunities:
- Exercise Physiologist: Develop exercise programs to improve fitness, manage chronic conditions and enhance overall health in settings like hospitals, rehab centers, research labs or private clinics.
- Strength and Conditioning Coach: Design and implement training programs to boost athletic performance. Work with athletes at all levels in sports teams, fitness centers and athletic facilities.
- Clinical Exercise Specialist: Create exercise plans for individuals with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes, often in hospitals or specialized rehab centers.
- Personal Trainer: Provide tailored fitness programs and motivation to clients in gyms, sports clubs or private training businesses.
- Sports Performance Coach: Help athletes optimize performance and prevent injuries in professional sports organizations, university athletics or private facilities.
- Corporate Wellness Coordinator: Implement workplace wellness programs to promote employee health through assessments, fitness challenges and health education.
- Researcher or Academic: Pursue research or teaching roles at universities and institutions, contributing to advancements in exercise science through studies and publications.
- Health and Fitness Consultant: Advise clients on exercise, nutrition and lifestyle changes, working independently or with wellness organizations.
- Rehabilitation Specialist: Develop exercise programs for individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries in hospitals, clinics or therapy centers.
- Wellness Program Director: Lead wellness initiatives in corporations, community centers or healthcare facilities, managing programs and teams of health professionals.
These examples highlight the breadth of opportunities in exercise science, a field that continues to grow and evolve. Specializations in areas like sports nutrition, biomechanics or public health offer even more potential for career advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Student Testimonials
“The professors are super helpful. Two of my professors who were very meaningful to me were also athletic trainers. They would meet every few weeks and talk about the coursework and my job.Get to know your professors. They can help you with day to day or even land a job. Send an introductory email so stand out as a student. You can get to learn about how they are experts in their field.”
“Make that commitment that once you’re going to start the program that you are going to be dedicated to completing it and finishing it.”
“Be committed to see it through and give 100% because that’s really how you’re going to be able to take what you learn and apply it into a career setting.”
“It’s hard to get your masters and be a mom, to be working full time. But it’s a great sense of ‘yeah I did that, while working a full time job, it’s rewarding”.I would say Concordia and getting my masters was the jumpstart of what made me great today.”
“CISSN I passed with flying colors and I got over a 90%.” Getting your Masters degree prepares you to be an auto mechanic. When you get your Masters you learn how to build the car so it teaches you how to understand the scientific principles very deeply that surround these certifications.
I will tell you that it improved my practice a hundred times over just having a really strong grip on the scientific foundations that builds the certification. I was balancing 5 kids and owning a gym. The professors are good at working with adults who are working. The program is entirely doable and designed for working adults and that’s why you choose asynchronous online education.
A big thank you to all the amazing professors I had in my time at Concordia, I will tell you I really got my money’s worth out of that program. You are going to get out what you put in. If you put in the work you will reap the reward. You will make the connections you need to make. You will learn what you need to learn to be a better practitioner”