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Saint Xavier University Chicago Campus Residence Halls

Master of Science in Exercise Science


The Master of Science in Exercise Science (MSES) at Saint Xavier University has two concentrations. 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.

  1. 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.
  2. Accelerated - This program will allow you to finish your MSES in a year. You will take 6-9 credits every 8 weeks for one year to complete your degree.
  3. Traditional Track - This is a two-year track where the student will take 3-6 credit hours each semester and complete the degree in 24 months.

Strength and Conditioning

The 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 health care.

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.

Nutritional Sciences

The concentration in Nutritional Sciences is designed for students with a bachelor's degree in art, science, or health and wellness-related fields interested in advancing their knowledge and career options within their discipline. These disciplines include exercise science, strength and conditioning, personal training, athletic training, physical therapy, sports scientists, nutritionists and educators. The program focuses on developing leadership qualities that utilize decision-making grounded in evidence-based practice across healthcare and wellness settings. The curriculum design will increase the knowledge needed for 21st-century health care.

Full-time faculty will teach and divisional director and staff will oversee student advising. Program goals and learning outcomes are assured by implementing a Systematic Evaluation Plan (SEP). In the final semester, students apply best practices and knowledge in their concentration by completing either (a) a research-based scholarly project or (b) a thesis option for students planning future doctoral studies. Upon completing the program, students will be eligible to sit for the International Sports Society of Nutrition certification exam (ISSN). The certification is the gold standard and a prerequisite for higher-sport nutrition-based jobs.

The Systematic Evaluation Plan (SEP) is a formative and summative assessment of the program's mission, goals, and student learning outcomes. The curriculum reflects the discipline of Exercise Science and the concentration within Nutritional Sciences. It is grounded in interdisciplinary health sciences to assure student achievement of learning outcomes, course quality, and faculty performance.

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.