Degree
MS
Program Type
Graduate
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Program Overview

This program is focused on strength and conditioning to provide the knowledge to guide you and others toward peak physical performance.

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exercise science

National Recognition

Ashland University’s M.S. in Applied Exercise Science is the only graduate program of its kind in Ohio and one of seven in the nation that have attained the Education Recognition Program status by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. In the fall of 2019, the program was ranked by Intelligent.com as first overall in the Private Institution category and second in all categories. More recently, Applied Exercise Science was ranked 21st in the United States by TheBestSchools.org and seventh by Online Masters in the category of online sports medicine programs.

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Exercise Science students testing reflexes

We’ll Work Around Your Schedule

We understand the needs of working adults, which is why our master’s degree in Exercise Science can be completed online, with only one day of in-person meetings. You can also complete your degree in as few as three semesters (12 months).

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exercise science

Curriculum

Courses Credit Hrs.
NUHS 509:Quantitative Data Analysis 3
NUHS 510: Ethics & Professional Responsibility 3
NUHS 558: Research Foundations & Methods in Health Sciences 3
AEXS 671: Scientific Basis of Sport 3
AEXS 675: Scientific Foundation of Nutrition in Sport 3
AEXS 677: Physiological Basis for Exercise & Sport 3
AEXS 678: Fitness Assessment & Exercise Prescription 3
AEXS 679: Principles of Strength & Conditioning 3
Elective (if non thesis capstone is used) 3
Potential Electives (3-6 credits depending on capstone option)  
AEXS 598: Independent Study (3)
AEXS 670: Sport Medicine Principles for Sport Professionals (3)
AEXS 673 Analysis of Sport Instruction (3)
SMG 572: Sport Management (3)
ED Master’s-level courses (3)
Discipline-specific elective (3)
Capstone Experience Options
NUHS 747: Internship 3
NUHS 778: Practicum 3
NUHS 781: Thesis 6

Internships and Career Opportunities

Internships can become full-time employment, leading to positions such as:

  • Fitness directors
  • Corporate health and wellness directors
  • Strength and conditioning coaches
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Athletic Training student practices working with a patient

Contact Information

Randy Gearhart, Ph.D.
245 Rybolt Sport Sciences Center
rgearhar@ashland.edu
419-207-6198