Program Overview

The interdisciplinary M.Ed. in Exercise Science program is designed to prepare professionals who have the knowledge, skills, and leadership to address chronic health problems (e.g., obesity, diabetes, heart disease) through education, exercise, and lifestyle change. Students in the program examine the scientific (anatomical, biomechanical, and physiological) and theoretical basis that underlie effective programs for improved fitness, performance, disease prevention, and improved quality of life outcomes.

In addition to preparing highly qualified professionals, the program also serves as a resource to the state and region by creating and expanding opportunities in the following ways:

• Meeting the increased demand for exercise scientists/wellness specialists;
• Providing an option for graduate study for undergraduate majors in Exercise Science as well as those seeking a practitioner-based graduate option from other area institutions in area; and,
• Expanding options and opportunities in clinical preparation in region for people already working in the Exercise Science, Fitness and Wellness fields.

Program Outcomes

Program graduates are well-prepared to

• Administer appropriate exercise tests and interpret results for both healthy and unhealthy populations;
• Design safe and effective exercise programs for healthy and unhealthy populations;
• Create exercise prescriptions and educational programming focused on health, disease prevention, and chronic disease management across ages and populations;
• Explain the physiological response and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise across the lifespan;
• Read, interpret and apply scientific research information within the field of fitness, wellness, and exercise science;
• Engage in research that advances the field of and improves practice in Exercise Science, Fitness and Wellness applications, and;
• Gain the knowledge and leadership skills necessary for further education in Health and Human Performance or senior level positions within the exercise science industry.

Admission Requirements

• Submit admissions application to the Office of Admissions. Apply online at https://www.fairmontstate.edu/apply
• Pay $50 application fee
• Submit official college transcripts to the Office of Admissions
• Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
• Complete undergraduate coursework in the following areas with a grade C or higher: Anatomy & Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics; Applicants can take graduate classes but must take these undergraduate courses prior to taking the graduate equivalents.

Provisional acceptance may be granted if the student meets some but not all the above admission requirements. Provisionally admitted students must obtain a 3.0 GPA at the completion of their first year to attain unconditional status.

Graduation Requirements

Students can select an option to do an internship in a professional setting or a thesis must be completed to meet the graduation requirements of the M.Ed. in Exercise Science. These options are typically completed during the last semester of enrollment.