Exercise Science

Master of Science Degree Program

Learn to use the science behind exercise and sport

If you have a passion for exercise and fitness or sport and athletic performance, the master of science (M.S.) in exercise science degree program may be for you. This degree program can prepare you for a wide diversity of careers depending on your interests and background.

The following are some examples of positions held by graduates of the program:

  • Strength and conditioning coach
  • Fitness director
  • Personal trainer
  • Exercise scientist
  • Wellness specialist
  • Yoga studio owner and instructor
  • Physical education teacher
  • Athletic trainer
  • College instructor
  • Collegiate track and field/cross country coach

Graduates of this program have worked at a variety of organizations and institutions including the U.S. Olympic Committee, USA Triathlon, the Gatorade Institute, the New York Knicks, the University of Pennsylvania, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, George Mason University, SUNY Geneseo and SUNY Plattsburgh, among others. Graduates of the program have also gone on to medical school, doctoral study in exercise science, a certificate program in orthotics/prosthetics or study in other health-related fields.

Program Highlights

The graduate program in exercise science provides core coursework in the physiology and biomechanics of human movement, motor behavior, and psychology of sport or exercise. You will develop an understanding of the body’s ability to build strength and endurance, maintain fitness and acquire skill. You’ll also learn how the mind influences these processes. You’ll graduate with the ability to understand and conduct exercise science research.

  1. This degree program requires a combined 30 credit hours of coursework and a thesis or comprehensive exam. Students generally complete the degree in three to four semesters.

    Coursework. Most of the courses in this program are offered in the evening, allowing students to continue to work full-time while completing this degree. Your coursework will include the following required courses:

    • Advanced Biomechanics
    • Advanced Motor Behavior
    • Advanced Exercise Physiology
    • Behavior in Sport or Advanced Exercise Psychology
    • Research in Methods in Exercise Science
    • Advanced Statistical Applications in Exercise Science
    • Seminar in Exercise Science
  2. Thesis or comprehensive exam. You have the option of completing a thesis for 6 credit hours, or taking a comprehensive examination for 1 credit hour. If you choose the exam, you will need to complete 9 credit hours of elective coursework to meet the 30 credit hour requirement; if you choose to write a thesis, you will need 4 credit hours of elective coursework to complete the degree.

Are you ready?

Contact Us

Chair: Kate Polasek
Main Office: Professional Studies Building, Room 1164
Phone: 607-753-4300
Fax: 607-753-5596
Email: kinesiology@cortland.edu

Required Application Materials

  • Completed online Graduate School Application
  • A bachelor’s degree in any subject. Forward official transcripts from all institutions of higher learning attended directly to the SUNY Cortland Graduate Admissions Office
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • A statement describing your professional and educational goals in 250 words or less

Admissions Criteria

Preference will be given to candidates with the following an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and above on a 4.0 scale.

Exceptional applicants who do not meet all of the above requirements will be considered on an individual basis. Qualified applicants without strong preparation in the basic sciences and human movement science may be required to complete specific undergraduate coursework within one year of their matriculation. The undergraduate courses that may be required include: anatomy and physiology I &II, motor behavior, biomechanics, exercise physiology, and statistics.