The MS in Applied Exercise Science combines advanced core coursework with career-focused concentration study. All students complete a rigorous foundation in applied exercise physiology, kinesiology or biomechanics, research design, and evidence-based practice — then dive deep into their chosen concentration. Core themes include:

• Applied exercise physiology
• Kinesiology and biomechanics (I and II)
• Research design and methods in exercise science
• Exercise testing and prescription
• Health risk appraisal
• Behavioral change strategies
• Advanced strength and conditioning
• Sport and exercise nutrition
• Corrective exercise and movement analysis
• Program design for special populations

By graduation, you'll have the applied expertise to interpret research, design evidence-based programs, and lead in your specialty area.

Graduates emerge with the advanced scientific knowledge, technical competencies, and leadership skills the human performance industry demands. You'll gain expertise in:

• Advanced exercise testing and prescription
• Program design for athletes and special populations
• Biomechanical and movement analysis
• Corrective exercise and injury prevention
• Sport and clinical nutrition planning
• Interpreting and applying research
• Behavioral change and adherence coaching
• Professional communication and mentorship
• Ethical leadership and evidence-based decision-making

These competencies prepare graduates to work with clients and athletes at every level — from community wellness settings to collegiate, professional, and Olympic athletics.

The MS in Applied Exercise Science offers five career-aligned concentrations, plus dual-concentration options for students who want to broaden their expertise:

• Exercise Physiology — For those pursuing peak wellness, injury prevention, and performance optimization. Two tracks available (Track 1 for students without an exercise science bachelor's; Track 2 for those with one). Prepares graduates for the ACSM Exercise Physiologist (EP) certification.
• Human Movement Science — Focused on injury prevention and correcting faulty movement patterns. Prepares graduates for the NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES) credential.
• Sports Performance Training — Designed for coaches, athletic trainers, and sports professionals working with athletes from high school to Olympic levels. Prepares graduates for the NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) exam — a credential now required by top NFL and NBA teams.
• Sports Nutrition — Designed for professionals providing evidence-based nutrition guidance to athletes. Prepares graduates for the ISSN Certified Sports Nutrition (CISSN) exam.
• Strength and Conditioning — NSCA-recognized program that exceeds standard CSCS requirements. Prepares graduates for the NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam and advanced certifications.

One of the defining features of Concordia's MS in Applied Exercise Science is its close alignment with the industry's most respected certifications. Rather than studying theory in isolation, you'll build the scientific foundation that makes certification success — and applied practice — sustainable throughout your career. Concordia's Strength and Conditioning concentration is officially recognized by the NSCA's Education Recognition Program (ERP), distinguishing it as a program with standardized, approved curricula designed to prepare students for the CSCS credential. Certifications prepared for across the concentrations include:

• NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES)
• NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
• ISSN Certified Sports Nutrition (CISSN)
• ACSM Exercise Physiologist (EP)  

The MS in Applied Exercise Science is delivered 100% online with asynchronous, self-paced coursework — designed specifically for working adults balancing careers, families, and continued education. Small class sizes ensure that even in an online environment, you'll build meaningful relationships with faculty and peers. Students describe the program as challenging but doable, with professors experienced in supporting working adults through demanding schedules. As one graduate shared: "The program is entirely doable and designed for working adults — that's why you choose asynchronous online education."  

The MS in Applied Exercise Science prepares graduates for both immediate career advancement and continued academic study. Graduates of CUC's MS program who apply to CUC's PhD in Exercise Science may be eligible to apply up to 12 credits from their master's toward the doctorate, accelerating their path to terminal-degree scholarship. Common graduate and post-graduate pathways include:

• PhD in Exercise Science (CUC and beyond)
• Advanced clinical certifications (ACSM, NSCA)
• Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) pathways
• Corporate wellness and executive leadership
• University coaching and athletic performance roles
• Research and teaching positions

An MS in Applied Exercise Science is an advanced graduate degree focused on the science and application of human movement, performance, and health. You'll study applied exercise physiology, biomechanics, research methods, exercise testing and prescription, and specialized areas like strength and conditioning, sports nutrition, or corrective exercise. At Concordia University Chicago, the online MS is designed to prepare working professionals for advanced certifications, leadership roles, and continued graduate study. 

Graduates advance into roles such as strength and conditioning coach, exercise physiologist, sports nutrition consultant, corrective exercise specialist, performance coach, wellness director, and clinical exercise professional. The program also prepares graduates for leadership positions in collegiate and professional athletics, corporate wellness, rehabilitation settings, and community health organizations.  

Yes. The entire MS in Applied Exercise Science is delivered online with asynchronous coursework — no set class times. The program is intentionally designed for working adults balancing careers, families, and school.  

CUC offers five career-focused concentrations: Exercise Physiology (Tracks 1 and 2), Human Movement Science, Sports Performance Training, Sports Nutrition, and Strength and Conditioning. Dual-concentration options are also available for students who want to broaden their expertise.  

The program requires 30 to 36 credit hours depending on the concentration. Because the program is self-paced and asynchronous, completion time varies based on how many courses you take per term and how you balance coursework with work and life responsibilities.  

Tuition is $575 per credit hour, plus an $18 per credit technology fee. Depending on concentration (30 to 36 credit hours), estimated tuition ranges from approximately $17,250 to $20,700 — making CUC one of the most affordable and accessible online graduate programs in applied exercise science.  

Applicants must meet CUC's general graduate admission requirements. Master's applicants typically submit an online application, official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities, two letters of recommendation, and an objective statement. Students may enter in fall, spring, or summer semesters.  

Yes. Students who complete CUC's MS in Applied Exercise Science may be eligible to apply up to 12 credits toward CUC's PhD in Exercise Science, provided the courses were earned within three calendar years of the PhD start term, have grades of B or higher, and are approved through evaluation.