Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science
Our exercise science graduate degree offers elite, hands-on preparation for careers in health promotion, exercise physiology and related fields. The Strength and Conditioning concentration is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Finish in as little as 9 - 12 months.
Graduate Info Session & Tour
Saturday, October 14 , 2023
from 10:30 am
to 12:00 pm
Exercise and Sport Science Master’s Degree: Why Merrimack College?
You’ll cultivate a complete range of professional skills in our Exercise and Sport Science master’s program, while choosing from concentrations in Strength and Conditioning or Exercise Science. The degree has earned wide recognition for its:
Exceptional fellowship opportunities.
Merrimack College’s one-of-a-kind Exercise and Sport Science fellowships offer hands-on experience that you can’t get in a classroom. You’ll work in a professional practice, get immersed in exercise science technologies and methods, and enjoy a 50-100% tuition reduction.
Flexible program options.
You can earn the Exercise and Sport Science master’s degree either full-time or part-time, graduating in as little as 9 months or as long as 2 years.
Personalized faculty support.
Our Exercise and Sport Science master’s degree features small classes and attentive faculty. You’ll learn from seasoned practitioners who hold advanced degrees and have years of professional practice in exercise physiology, athletics and coaching.
Strong community.
Merrimack College’s exercise science graduate program features small courses and a welcoming culture that’s more collaborative than competitive. You’ll develop close-knit relationships with classmates and faculty, developing a supportive network that endures long past graduation.
Grad Chat Podcast
In this episode of Grad Chat, our main discussion revolves around Merrimack’s Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science. Joining us is Madeline Cushing, a program alumna who will share her valuable perspectives and personal journey. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights and learn from her firsthand experiences!
Join us for this exciting episode of Grad Chat! Our special guest is Erica Schafer, a recent graduate of the Master of Science in Exercise Sport Science. Erica shares her remarkable journey during her fellowship with the esteemed U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine. She emphasizes how her master’s degree and fellowship helped raise her game in research, mastery of equipment and technical skills and even writing – enabling her to land a full-time contract with USARIEM and gain admission to a Ph.D. program. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in how a graduate fellowship can prepare you for a health sciences career.
Program Format
- On-Campus
Concentration in Strength and Conditioning
Students choosing the concentration in Strength and Conditioning will prepare to work with a variety of athletes in multiple settings. The coursework focuses on advanced strength and conditioning theory, program design, coaching leadership, and coaching skills. The curriculum is designed to be relevant and practical to prepare students for job placement upon graduation and be adequately prepared to pass national certification exams.
Concentration in Exercise Science
The concentration in Exercise Science has a curriculum that is focused on science and disease prevention with courses like Physical Activity and Technology and Chronic Disease and Health Promotion. In this concentration, students will gain practical skills needed for success in the industry.
Exercise and Sport Science: What You’ll Learn
Merrimack’s exercise and sport science master’s degree enables you learn both in the classroom and in real-world settings. You’ll acquire the expertise to apply state-of-the art technologies and evidence-based practices.
In addition, our Exercise and Sport Science master’s program provides you with full preparation for professional certification. You’ll learn to:
- Collaborate on interdisciplinary teams with fellow medical and exercise professionals.
- Work with diverse clients of all ages, cultural backgrounds, and levels of fitness and athletic ability.
- Apply the most current, cutting-edge technologies, including BodPod, Force Plate, Neurotracker, Zephyr, and 3-D gait tracking.
- Help athletes achieve peak performance.
- Exercise leadership in community health and fitness programs.
Core Classes
- Advanced Exercise Physiology
- Health Sciences Organization and Leadership
- Research Methods
- Sport and Exercise Psychology
- Sports Nutrition
- Capstone Seminar
Concentration: Strength and Conditioning
- Advanced Strength and Conditioning
- Strength and Conditioning Coaching Theory and Practice
Concentration: Exercise Science
- Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
- Physical Activity and Exercise Technologies
Exercise Science and Personal Fitness Career Opportunities
Graduates of Merrimack College’s Exercise and Sport Science master’s program have an outstanding hiring record. Many of our alumni pursue careers as strength and conditioning coaches, one of the fastest-growing health science professions. In addition, our graduates work in positions such as:
- Exercise physiologist
- Health promotion coordinator
- Fitness training consultant
- Wellness coach
- Youth fitness specialist
- Senior adult fitness instructor
- Athletic and fitness equipment developer
Employers actively recruit graduates of Merrimack College’s Exercise and Sport Science program. You’ll enter the job market with an outstanding combination of academic preparation and professional experience, along with the confidence to excel from day one.
“We really focus on hard skills. I don’t even use a textbook in my classes. Our students get hands-on training and experience. They work with up-to-date technology. They learn to write detailed protocols. They get everything they need.”
Want to Learn More about the Exercise and Sport Science Master’s Degree?
Contact the Merrimack College Office of Graduate Admission at graduate@merrimack.edu.
Scholarships and Fellowships
Exercise and Sport Science fellowships can reduce your tuition by 50 percent or more. Scholarships can provide additional support to limit your expenses and debt burden.
How to Apply
Create your account to get started. Start your Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science today.
