This degree is approved for distance education by the WSCUC.
Exercise Science is a multidisciplinary degree that consists of courses in Biomechanics, Exercise Physiology, and Motor Control & Learning. Students completing a Master of Science in Exercise Science will experience an in-depth journey into the world of human movement by focusing on quantitative methods of analysis, understanding the physiological and/or biomechanical changes and underlying mechanisms associated with human performance and pathological states, and learning about central nervous system changes that occur in various skill learning environments. Students who study within the Exercise Science option have a multitude of options after completion of their degree that include employment in health-related fields and preparation for graduate and professional school opportunities.
Careers
Biomechanist working in sport and rehabilitation programs; Exercise physiologist working in sports, wellness programs, and clinical settings; a researcher working in sports medicine, fitness, and pathophysiology, exercise specialist working with healthy, clinical, and aging populations; research lab technician or manager; Sport and fitness product development; Strength and conditioning coach working in sport performance centers, fitness centers, colleges and universities, professional sports, rehabilitation centers, military facilities; Personal trainer; Health and Wellness Coach; Preparation for graduate programs in allied health fields (e.g. medical school, physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthotics & prosthetics, Ph.D. programs).
Admission requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a major in Kinesiology/Physical Education or the equivalent;
- If a prospective graduate student has a baccalaureate degree in a field other than Kinesiology or Physical Education, he/she may be required to take prerequisite or foundational upper-division undergraduate coursework in Kinesiology. Students must consult with the Associate Chair for Graduate Studies and/or major advisor before enrolling in foundational courses. The courses, which vary depending on the student’s academic background and Option, may be taken at CSULB or another college/university. All foundational coursework must be completed prior to Advancement to Candidacy.
- An overall undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or better and an upper division Kinesiology/Physical Education major GPA of 2.75 or better;
- A minimum cumulative score of 150 on the verbal, 141 on the quantitative and 3.5 on the analytical writing sections of the Graduate Record Examination.
