The Master of Science in Exercise Science (MSES) with a concentration in Strength and Conditioning is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in science or a healthcare-related field interested in advancing their knowledge within their discipline. The program is grounded in evidence-based practice, decision-making and leadership across healthcare and wellness settings; the curriculum is designed to increase and expand the knowledge needed for 21st-century healthcare.
The MSES is a degree that was created by practitioners for practitioners looking to enter a career in allied health. Students who enroll in the MSES will have access to our state-of-the-art Human Performance Lab during their tenure in the program. Furthermore, courses are taught by current practitioners and content experts within the field of Exercise Science. The MSES program adheres to the National Strength and Conditioning principles and prepares to take the NSCA-CSCS, NSCA-CPSS and the FMS Level 1 certification post-graduation. The 36-39 credit program is delivered online in a 12 or 24-month option with an 8-week schedule.
There are three program options to obtain your MSES.
- 4+1 - Currently enrolled students in their senior year at SXU can apply and begin their MSES in their final semester. You will finish your MSES in 10.5 months.
- Accelerated - This program will allow you to finish your MSES in a year. You will take 6 credits every 8 weeks for one year to complete your degree.
- Traditional Track - This is a two-year track where the student will take 3 credit hours each semester and complete the degree in 24 months.
Learning Objectives
In the MSES program, students will:
- Effectively design programs for athletes, the general population, the military and post-rehabilitation using current research and evidence-based techniques.
- Demonstrate appropriate evaluation methods for program design of strength and conditioning protocols.
- Use critical thinking skills to identify and prescribe recovery and regeneration techniques for both the athlete and non-athlete.
- Demonstrate an evidence-based approach to practice, using both quantitative and qualitative research.
- Appraise current literature and apply evidence in the health and science fields to selected practice settings.
- Apply ethical principles in decision-making in health science practice.
Degree Requirements
I. Core Courses (18 credit hours)
- EXSCG 400: Leadership and Ethics (3)
- EXSCG 405: Psychology of Health-Related Behavior (3)
- EXSCG 425: Research Methods (3)
- EXSCG 415: Application of Educational Practices (3)
- NURSG 553: Culture, Communication and Conflict Resolution in Interprofessional Practice (3)
- NURSG 557: Information Technology and Health Care Outcomes Evaluation (3)
II. Concentration Courses (15 credit hours)
- EXSCG 515: Advanced Strength and Conditioning (3)
- EXSCG 550: Advanced Recovery and Regeneration (3)
- EXSCG 580: Advanced Motor Control and Assessment (3)
- EXSCG 600: Scholarly Project or Thesis Option (6-9)
III. Elective Courses (3 credit hours)
Choose one of the following elective courses:
- EXSCG 505: Advanced Concepts in Applied Physiology (3)
- EXSCG 540: Advanced Coaching Practices (3)
- EXSCG 590: Application of Strength and Conditioning Principles (3)
The College of Nursing, Health Sciences and Business reserves the right to amend policies, procedures and other program information as necessary. All changes will be communicated promptly.