Master of Science in Applied Exercise Science

Sports Performance Training

Improve athletic performance and prepare for NASM’s Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) exam with an MS in Applied Exercise Science, Sports Performance Training concentration, at Concordia-Chicago.

Become an Expert in Health & Fitness

Learn how our 100% online programs can help you get ahead in the exercise science field.

Application Deadline: Jan. 3, 2024
Classes Start: Jan. 8, 2024

Sports Performance Training Program Details

Our 100% online MS in Applied Exercise Science, Sports Performance Training concentration, is designed for working adults, with asynchronous classes so you can learn anytime, anywhere. We keep class sizes small, so you can connect with your classmates and professors. Dual concentrations are also available.

Why Pursue a Sports Performance Training Degree?

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.

Institutional Accreditation

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees.

Industry Certification

This program prepares individuals for the National Academy of Sports Medicine’s Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) exam.

Sports Performance Career Outlook

Graduates of our master’s degree in exercise science go on to serve in a variety of capacities in fitness, wellness, sports management and leadership careers. Many of our students pursue careers such as:

  • Performance Coach
  • Athletic Director
  • Sports Performance Specialist

#1 Master’s in Exercise Science in the US

#2 for Affordability in the US

No Pre-reqs

Admission Requirements

Free online application

Bachelor’s degree

2.85 minimum GPA

Objective statement

Letters of recommendation

Curriculum

Required Core Courses

Students will explore upper extremity musculoskeletal anatomy with emphasis on systems that enable the human body to maintain proper stabilization and produce efficient movements. Students will develop human movement analysis techniques through assessment and evaluation of biomechanical movement patterns.

Application of mechanical principles to human movement with focus on the principles of kinematics and kinetics to the human body during movement. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6020 or AES-6030.

Students will explore trunk and lower extremity musculoskeletal anatomy with emphasis on systems that enable the human body to maintain proper stabilization and produce efficient movements. Students will develop human movement analysis techniques through assessment and evaluation of biomechanical movement patterns.

Apply principles of kinematics and kinetics of the human body in movement and sport activities. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6040.

Selected research techniques and designs utilized in exercise science research with emphasis on general statistics, interpretation of data, research ethics, scientific writing and library use.

Effects of exercise on the major systems of the human body, including cardiorespiratory, neuromuscular, glandular and digestive; with emphasis on optimizing human performance. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6050 or division chair consent.

Advanced study of energy metabolism and the primary physiological systems (cardiovascular, respiratory, neuromuscular) in the context of exercise and performance. Advanced topics related to mechanisms and adaptations relating to physiology during exercise. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6050.

Explores the relationships between nutrition, energy metabolism, and exercise and sport performance, with an in-depth analysis of dietary and nutritional supplementation. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6050, and AES-6200 or AES-6250.

Culminating experience in the Master of Science in Applied Exercise Science degree. Experiences may include, but are not limited to, independent research that leads to an actual product such as a publishable journal article, professional field experience, conference presentation, advanced certifications, program or facility development, website, online course materials, curriculum development. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6380, AES-6460, AES-6560, AES-6660, AES-6780 or AES-6860.

Required Program Courses

Examines a systematic approach to integrated performance training using the National Academy of Sports Medicine’s Optimum Performance Training model. Designed to prepare students interested in becoming a Performance Enhancement Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6020 or AES-6040, AES-6030 or AES-6045, and AES-6050, or division chair consent.

Explores program design principles for integrated sports performance training, with an emphasis on the National Academy of Sports Medicine’s Optimum Performance Training model. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6600 or division chair consent.

Planning and implementation of an integrated sports performance training program through a case study with a member of their community. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6620 or division chair consent.

In-depth study of selected advanced topics in sports performance training. Prerequisite: B or higher in AES-6620 or division chair consent.

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Start Date

January 8, 2024

Deadline to Apply

January 3, 2024

Cost Per Credit

$575

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