Exercise Science, M.S.

The M.S. program in Exercise Science prepares graduates for roles that research, analyze, and promote fitness and wellness with an emphasis on the role of exercise in human health.

This program in the Department of Exercise Science provides students with an understanding of how physical activity affects physiological systems. Students choose a program focus on either a research project or internship experience to prepare you for future career goals. This program provides the theoretical background and practical experience needed for students pursuing national certifications offered by the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association. This program fulfills the academic requirements for professional certification, for applicants who already have New York State initial teacher certification in Physical Education (all grades).

Why Exercise Science at Syracuse University?

• Our graduate faculty are composed of leading scholars in a variety of specialties, and we have earned a reputation for excellence in every facet of academic enterprise: teaching, grant-funded research, publication, and active involvement in professional and community service projects.
• Students and faculty are involved in nationally-recognized, cutting-edge research with projects and facilities such as the Muscle Biology Laboratory, Human Performance Laboratory, and Altitude Simulator.
• The campus is your classroom, including the extensive facilities of the Syracuse Recreation Services: four gymnasiums, two pools, dance studios, tennis courts, weight rooms, and various indoor and outdoor athletic fields.
• Small, selective cohorts means small class sizes and close relationships and personal attention from our faculty.
• Take part in School of Education short-term study abroad programs around the world. Through the Himan Brown Fellowship, School of Education students are also eligible for exclusive funding to support study abroad experiences.

Our graduates are in demand wherever exercise physiology is practiced, including:

• Government, hospital-based, and non-profit health programs (including cardiac rehabilitation units)
• Corporate fitness and personal training
• Physician’s assistant, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or nursing
• Research and instructor roles in higher education or healthcare.
• Further studies in Science Education (concentration in Exercise Physiology), a national fitness certification, medical school, or another area of interest.

Program Contacts

Keith DeRuisseau, Associate Professor and Chair

kcderuis@syr.edu|315.443.9698

Donna Fecteau, Administrative Assistant

defectea@syr.edu|315.443.9696

For more information and admissions for Exercise Science graduate programs, please contact the Falk College Office of Admissions.