Exercise Science

Overview

Whether clinical-based practitioners or fitness/strength and conditioning practitioners, our goal is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of how to design, analyze and apply research in the field of Exercise Science. Additionally, students will gain the knowledge, skills and abilities to secure the highest level of certification in their respective expertise.

The combination of classes and the integration of research throughout the program from Northern Kentucky University will provide students with the following benefits:

• Clinicians will be prepared for the ACSM-Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) exam which requires extensive clinical coursework and experience.

• Strength and conditioning coaches and fitness practitioners will be prepared for the NSCA-Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam.

• A thesis option in which students will work with a faculty mentor to develop a testable hypothesis, conduct research, and disseminate the results locally and nationally. 

• An Internship option for students targeting advanced professional experience in the field of their choice. 

Careers

Exercise Science practitioners are employed in a wide variety of positions ranging from those who are primarily clinical-based and work in hospitals, wellness and therapy-type settings to those who focus on physical fitness and strength and conditioning. A major focus of the MSES is to provide students, regardless of specialty, with a cumulative experience by preparing them for two different certifications (clinicians and strength and conditioning coaches) that are highly desirable in the field.