M.A. Degree in
Health and Exercise Science

Program Objective

The M.A. program is primarily designed to enhance and broaden the knowledge and clinical skills of students in the field of Health and Exercise Science. Potential applications of this knowledge include: 1.) education designed to enhance physical activity and health behavior, with instruction being conducted in hospitals, fitness and wellness centers, clinics, community health agencies, and various work sites; 2.) the appropriate use of physical activity in the prevention and treatment of chronic disease; and 3.) the improvement of sport and exercise performance for recreational and elite athletes.

All admitted M.A. applicants must select one of the three focus areas of course work, practical experiences, and research. Graduates from any of the following three focus areas may choose to continue their education at the Ph.D. level.

Areas of Specialization

Exercise Science: Prepares the student to understand and to critically analyze the current literature, to develop research hypotheses, to design hypothesis-based experimental research, to apply sound measurement techniques, and to utilize appropriate statistical analyses related to the physiology of exercise and performance. Students will have a strong interest in research related to development and delivery of exercise programs, and perhaps advanced research training in a Ph.D. program.

Health and Physical Activity Behavior: Prepares students to apply principles of behavioral science to identify determinants of physical activity adoption and maintenance in a variety of populations and settings. Students will gain the skills necessary to design, implement, and evaluate programs to promote health and physical activity behavior change. Students will develop skill in the application of behavioral science to answer questions related to exercise adoption and maintenance. They would also be prepared to pursue advanced research training in a Ph.D. program.

Career Opportunities

The professional exercise scientist educates clients, patients, athletes and others on how best to employ physical activity and exercise programs to improve health, well being and/or performance in sports and exercise. Exercise science graduates with the M.A. degree have opportunities for employment in cardiac rehabilitation, adult fitness, geriatric settings, corporate fitness, military fitness, research, sales, and management in corporate fields such as sports nutrition, athletic footwear, fitness equipment, sports clothing, and weight control programs. Some Exercise Science M.A. graduates choose to continue their formal education and pursue a Ph.D. degree.

TIME OF STUDY

Typically, a student will complete the M.A. degree in 2 academic years of full-time study. Only students who intend to pursue the M.A. degree as full-time student are admitted.

Admission Criteria

Admission to the M.A. program is competitive and based upon several criteria. When considering admission the faculty in Exercise Science carefully evaluate the prior academic record, graduate record examination (GRE) scores, letters of recommendation, the personal statement of purpose and goals, and the research/career interests of the applicant. Successful applicants interested in the Clinical Exercise Science and Exercise Science focus areas have completed university level courses in physics and chemistry, including organic chemistry. Applicants interested in Health and Physical Activity Behavior typically have completed university level courses in the social, behavioral, and health sciences. The number of students accepted each year varies and is dependent on resources and the number of students each faculty member is able to optimally advise.

The Exercise Science faculty begin reviewing applications on December 1 for admission the following Autumn Quarter. Applicants are encouraged to submit application materials as early as possible to avoid delays. All application materials must be submitted to The Ohio State University Admissions Office and the PAES Office of Student Services and Academic Programs. For applicants who wish to be considered for a University Fellowship, all application materials must be received by December 1.

The Exercise Science faculty begin reviewing applications on December 1 for admission the following Autumn Quarter. Applicants are encouraged to submit application materials as early as possible to avoid delays. All application materials must be submitted to The Ohio State University Admissions Office and the PAES Office of Student Services and Academic Programs. For applicants who wish to be considered for a University Fellowship, all application materials must be received by December 1.

Masters (M.a.) Program of Study Health and Exercise Science

The students' advisory committees determine course requirements for individual students, but the following courses typically appear on the plans of study.
(36-39 hrs.) Courses are typically chosen from among the following:

Focus Areas

Exercise Science (36 hrs.)

Health and Physical Activity Behavior (33 hrs.)

PAES 651	Health Program Planning	3 hrs.
PAES 652	Health Promotion in the Workspace	3 hrs.
PAES 703	Health Behavior Change	3 hrs.
PAES 704	Evaluation in Health Education	3 hrs.
PAES 884.20	Internship in Health and Exercise Science	15 hrs.
Electives		7 hrs.

TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: 69-75
Click here for a printable version of the M.A. Health and Exercise Science Program of Study