33 credit hours
The graduate curriculum for the health sciences program with the sport science and performance specialization provides a strong scientific basis for students seeking advanced degrees in the exercise physiology, corporate wellness, clinical exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, and allied health professions as well as those seeking practical skills for employment in the health and fitness industry in addition to acceptance into doctoral education programs.
The Exercise and Performance Nutrition Laboratory (www.lindenwood.edu/epnl) contains approximately 2,000 square feet and offers a dedicated space for all laboratory instruction and research being conducted within the College of Science, Technology, and Health. This laboratory houses various body composition, cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal fitness, balance, and biochemistry equipment.
Sports science and performance specialization requires completion of an 18-credit hour core curriculum. Students then choose between a thesis or non-thesis options and elective courses to complete the remaining credit hours. Both thesis and non-thesis options within each specialization require the completion of a comprehensive examination. A written comprehensive examination is required for the non-thesis option, while a successful oral defense of the thesis is required for the thesis option.
The Master of Science in health sciences is consistent and aligns with the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) professional standards. Several instructors and faculty members are certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association as Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) and Certified Personal Trainers (NSCA-CPT) who teach in the sport science and performance specialization. Practical experiences offered on campus and throughout the program gives students robust experiences in strength and conditioning, athletic training, fitness assessment, and research as well as preparation for additional graduate coursework beyond the master’s degree. Graduates of this program will be exposed to a variety of content that will offer a broad foundation of knowledge that can be applied towards certification exams in areas related to:
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
- Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
- Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT)
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
- Tactical Strength and Conditioning (TSAC)
- Aerobic Fitness Association of American (AFAA)
- Various Certifications
National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
Additionally, students who express a desire to sit for more advanced certifications offered by the American College of Sports Medicine (e.g., Certified Exercise Physiologist and Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist) can outline a plan of electives to ensure all course content is covered upon completion of the program.
Health Sciences Program Admission
Applications for acceptance into the sports science and performance specialization must include the following documents:
- Online application.
- Official transcripts from all attended institutions verifying completion of bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Letter of intent that includes a personal statement discussing your area of interest in our graduate program along with your career goals.
- Current résumé including all related professional and extracurricular experience, education, and certifications.
- Minimum of three letters of recommendation addressing the applicant’s academic qualifications and abilities to be successful in a graduate program.
- An interview with departmental faculty (via phone or in person).
- Current CPR certification including AED certification.
- The prerequisites for admission into the sport science and performance specialization include Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs, Exercise Physiology with lab, Nutrition, and Statistics. Strongly suggested courses include Exercise Testing, and Exercise Prescription.
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