Master of Science in Exercise Science
Throughout every stage of life, there is a significant opportunity to optimize our health through intentional physical activity and nutrition. Despite extensive research confirming the benefits of exercise and proper nutrition, the prevalence of chronic diseases continues to rise across diverse populations, regardless of age, ethnicity, or gender identity. Exercise not only enhances overall health but also improves physical performance in various professions, from athletes to tactical roles. This growing need highlights the importance of qualified professionals who can work independently and collaborate with healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive, long-term health solutions.
Our 33-credit MS in Exercise Science is designed to equip you with the expertise and practical experience necessary to make a meaningful impact in the field. Whether you aim to advance your career or specialize in a particular area, our programs offer both a strong theoretical foundation and hands-on learning opportunities to ensure your success.
As part of the new program rollout, students who apply to the MS in Exercise Science program by March 15, 2025, will be eligible for a $10,000 financial award toward their degree. Through the admissions process, applicants will also be considered for scholarships, tuition discounts, and financial aid opportunities, demonstrating the College’s dedication to supporting students as they advance their education and prepare for impactful careers in a growing STEM field.
At a glance
- 33 Credit Graduate Program
- Hybrid, Evening Program
CONTACT
- Dana Caponong | Assistant Director, Graduate Admissions | dcaponon@stac.edu | 845-398-4220
Career OUTLOOK
The demand for exercise science professionals is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth in this field from 2022 to 2032 is expected to outpace the average across industries:
- Exercise Physiologists: 10% growth
- Fitness Trainers and Instructors: 14% growth
- Health Education Specialists and Dietitians/Nutritionists: 7% growth
Why Choose St. Thomas Aquinas?
Comprehensive Curriculum
Explore the depth of exercise science, from exercise physiology to cardiovascular and muscular function, while gaining practical skills through hands-on lab experiences.
Hybrid Program
Created with working professionals in mind, our program seamlessly combines twice-weekly in-person evening classes with the convenience of online learning, delivering the best of both worlds.
Personalized Guidance
Benefit from small classes and dedicated faculty that ensure you receive the attention and support needed to excel in your studies and future career.
Featured Courses
Gain the advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary for conducting comprehensive exercise testing protocols and designing individualized exercise programs. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, case studies, and practical experiences, you will gain expertise in assessing body composition, cardiovascular and muscular fitness, identifying cardiovascular risk factors, and developing safe and effective exercise programs for diverse populations. Protocols and procedures utilized in this course will reflect recommendations of the American College of Sports Medicine.
Explore the intersection of data analytics, sports science, and performance optimization in athletic contexts. Designed for students with a foundational understanding of statistics, data analysis, and sports science, this course provides a comprehensive overview of the methodologies, tools, and applications used to analyze and enhance athletic performance. You’ll learn how to integrate the concepts of training-stress balance, allostatic load, and periodization when working with athletic populations.
Gain the expertise to conduct high-quality research in exercise science by mastering the principles of research design, methodology, and data analysis. Explore the ethical considerations unique to the field and develop critical skills to evaluate and apply research literature. Through a blend of theoretical instruction, hands-on projects, and real-world applications, you’ll be equipped to design and execute evidence-based studies that advance knowledge and practice in exercise science.
Core Classes: 12 Credits
- Advanced Exercise Physiology
- Clinical Exercise Physiology
- Exercise Stress Testing
- Assessment and Evaluation for Fitness and Sport
Research Readiness: 9 Credits
- Research Methods in Exercise Science
- Statistics in Kinesiology
- Research Seminar/Comprehensive Exam
Electives: 12 Credits, Select 4 Courses
- Sport Nutrition
- Sport Psychology
- Strength & Conditioning for Tactical Populations
- Performance Analytics
- Sport Medicine
- Health Promotion
Community of Scholars
Dr. Gabriel Martinez
Dr. Gabriel Martinez earned his B.S. and M.S. degrees in Physical Education, Exercise Science, and Cardiac Rehabilitation from Brooklyn College and completed his Ph.D. in Exercise Science at the University of Kentucky. His research focuses on applying high-performance methodologies and performance analytics to tactical populations, particularly in law enforcement training. Dr. Martinez has published extensively, including studies on high-intensity interval training and fitness outcomes for law enforcement cadets. He teaches a range of courses, such as Nutritional Biology, Kinesiology, Exercise Testing and Prescription, and Theories of Strength and Conditioning.