Master’s in Exercise Science | Lead in Health and Wellness

Advanced Knowledge Grounded in Real-World Application

Gain a deeper understanding of exercise science through education that connects scientific principles with practical, real-world use. Students learn how to apply advanced concepts in training, health, and performance to help individuals achieve meaningful results.

Deeper Specialization in Performance, Longevity, and Leadership

Develop expertise in the critical areas shaping the future of health and fitness, including human performance, recovery strategies, and longevity-focused wellness. At the same time, strengthen the leadership skills needed to guide teams, mentor clients, and influence the direction of health and performance programs.

Credentials That Elevate Credibility and Open Doors

Earning advanced credentials demonstrates your expertise and commitment to professional growth. These qualifications can help strengthen your reputation in the industry, expand career opportunities, and position you as a trusted professional in the field of exercise science.

CAREER-READY SKILLS

Why Earn Your Master’s in Exercise Science?

Earning a Master of Science in Exercise Science allows professionals to deepen their expertise, expand career opportunities, and position themselves as leaders in the evolving health, fitness, and performance industries. Through advanced study in human performance, physiology, and evidence-based training strategies, graduates gain the knowledge and credentials needed to impact athletes, clients, and communities while advancing their own professional growth.

Opportunity to Expand Your Earning Potential

A Master’s in Exercise Science can open doors to higher-level roles across the fitness, sports performance, and wellness industries. As demand continues to grow for professionals with advanced knowledge in human performance, recovery, and longevity-focused health, graduate education can help position you for greater responsibility and increased earning potential.

Opens the Door to Leadership Roles

Graduate-level education prepares you with the advanced scientific knowledge and leadership skills needed to guide teams, manage wellness programs, and lead performance initiatives. With deeper expertise in exercise physiology, data analysis, and program design, graduates are equipped to take on leadership positions within fitness organizations, performance facilities, and wellness programs.

Build Specialized Expertise That Sets You Apart

Completing a master’s degree demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence and advanced competency in exercise science. Through specialized concentrations such as strength and conditioning, fitness leadership, and corporate or clinical wellness, students develop the focused expertise needed to stand out in a competitive and rapidly evolving industry.

Contribute to the Future of Health, Performance, and Longevity

Exercise science plays a vital role in shaping the future of preventative health, human performance, and long-term wellness. Lionel University’s Master of Science in Exercise Science prepares graduates to lead in this evolving field by applying evidence-based strategies that enhance athletic performance, promote healthier lifestyles, and support improved quality of life across diverse populations.

Top Skills Learned in This Program

Students in the Master of Science in Exercise Science program develop advanced skills that support leadership and success across the fitness, sports performance, and wellness industries.

Exercise Physiology & Human Performance
Strength and Conditioning Program Design
Performance Data Analysis
Leadership in Fitness & Wellness Organizations
Client Assessment & Behavior Change
Strategic Program Development for Health & Wellness

Top Career Opportunities

Graduates of Lionel University’s Master of Science in Exercise Science program are prepared for advanced leadership roles across sports performance, fitness, health, and wellness industries.

Strength and Conditioning Coach
Sports Performance Specialist
Human Performance Consultant
Fitness Executive Leader
Corporate Wellness Director
Clinical Exercise Specialist
Tactical Strength Coach
Sports Rehabilitation Specialist

Top Work Environments

Exercise science professionals work in a wide range of high-performance and health-focused settings where expertise in human movement, training, and recovery is essential.

Professional and Collegiate Sports Organizations
Olympic and Elite Performance Training Centers
Military and Tactical Performance Programs
Hospitals and Rehabilitation Clinics
Corporate Wellness and Employee Health Programs
Private Performance and Fitness Training Facilities

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Top Paying Careers with a Master’s in Exercise Science

A Master of Science in Exercise Science prepares graduates for leadership roles across sports performance, fitness, wellness, and human performance industries. As demand for preventative health, athletic performance, and longevity training grows, professionals with advanced exercise science education are increasingly sought after.

Below are several high-demand careers where a master’s degree can help open doors to advanced leadership and performance roles.

Strength and Conditioning Coach

Strength and Conditioning Coaches design evidence-based training programs that improve strength, speed, power, and injury prevention for athletes and performance clients. These professionals work with collegiate athletics, professional sports teams, private performance facilities, and military training programs.

Typical Work Environments

• Professional sports teams
• NCAA athletic programs
• Olympic training centers
• Private performance facilities

Sports Performance Specialist

Sports Performance Specialists focus on optimizing athletic performance through advanced strength training, movement analysis, and sport-specific conditioning. These professionals use exercise science, biomechanics, and recovery strategies to help athletes reach peak performance levels.

Typical Work Environments

• Professional sports organizations
• Elite training centers
• Sports academies
• Performance training facilities

Corporate Wellness Director

Corporate Wellness Directors design and lead wellness programs that improve employee health, productivity, and engagement. These leaders create fitness initiatives, preventative health programs, and workplace wellness strategies that support healthier work environments.

Typical Work Environments

• Corporate wellness programs
• Health and wellness companies
• Large employers and organizations
• Insurance and health management firms

Clinical Exercise Specialist

Clinical Exercise Specialists apply exercise science within healthcare environments to help patients improve health outcomes and recovery. They design safe, structured exercise programs for individuals managing chronic disease, injury rehabilitation, or cardiovascular conditions.

Typical Work Environments

• Hospitals
• Cardiac rehabilitation programs
• Medical fitness facilities
• Rehabilitation clinics

Fitness Executive Leader

Fitness Executive Leaders oversee operations, strategy, and program development for fitness and wellness organizations. They manage teams of trainers, lead program innovation, and scale performance programs that drive measurable health and fitness outcomes.

Typical Work Environments

• National fitness brands
• High-end fitness facilities
• Performance training organizations
• Wellness companies

Human Performance Consultant

Human Performance Consultants work with athletes, executives, and tactical professionals to improve physical performance, resilience, and recovery. These professionals use exercise physiology, performance testing, and recovery science to optimize physical readiness and long-term health.

Typical Work Environments

• Professional sports organizations
• Military performance programs
• Corporate wellness initiatives
• High-performance training centers

Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach

Tactical Strength Coaches train military personnel, law enforcement officers, and first responders to improve operational readiness. These programs focus on strength, endurance, resilience, and injury prevention in physically demanding professions.

Typical Work Environments

• Military installations
• Special operations units
• Law enforcement agencies
• Tactical training centers

Sports Rehabilitation Specialist

Sports Rehabilitation Specialists work with athletes and active populations recovering from injury to restore strength, mobility, and performance. Using exercise science principles, movement analysis, and corrective training strategies, these professionals design rehabilitation and return-to-play programs that help clients safely regain function and reduce the risk of future injury.

Typical Work Environments

• Sports medicine clinics
• Athletic training and rehabilitation centers
• Professional and collegiate sports programs
• Private performance and recovery facilities

Growing Demand for Preventive Health

Healthcare is shifting from treatment to prevention, recovery, and longevity. Increasing demand for exercise science professionals who improve performance and reduce chronic disease risk.

Expansion of Performance & Sports Careers

Professional sports teams, Olympic programs, tactical units, and elite performance centers are investing heavily in strength and conditioning specialists and sports scientists.

Corporate & Community Wellness Growth

Companies, schools, and municipalities are prioritizing employee wellness, injury prevention, and performance optimization. Creating new leadership roles in fitness and wellness management.

Growing older adult population needing individualized help

An aging population and rising lifestyle-related conditions are driving demand for qualified professionals trained in exercise physiology, behavior change, and long-term health programming.

Recognition

A University Education You Can Trust

Lionel University is recognized by respected accrediting and industry organizations.

Accreditation Disclosure

Lionel University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), a recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education. See accreditation & disclosures

Note: Industry partners and recognitions shown do not imply endorsement of outcomes, employment, or licensure.

Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission

Lionel University has been fully accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission since 2009, ensuring high quality, flexible education for online learners nationwide.

Proud to Serve Those Who Serve

Lionel University is honored to support military-connected students with flexible, career-focused education designed for those who serve and their families.

Recognized by the Health and Fitness Association

Our Certified Personal Trainer credential is recognized by the Health and Fitness Association, affirming alignment with national standards for fitness education.

Recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association

Lionel University is designated as an Educational Recognition Program institution by the NSCA, a global leader in strength and conditioning standards.

COSTS AND FEES

Graduate Program Costs

Review the current graduate tuition rate and required fees for Lionel University students.

Graduate Credits

Students residing in the U.S., regardless of citizenship, and U.S. citizens residing abroad.

$440 / credit

International Students

Undergraduate tuition for international students.

$440 / credit

Additional Costs & Fees

Textbook Costs

Digital textbooks are embedded into each course at no additional cost. Unrestricted access is available seven days prior to the start of class and throughout the quarter.

Admissions & Registration Fees

Apply at any time at no cost.

Transfer Credit Evaluation

Our staff will review your transfer documentation at no cost.

Technology Fee

Paid once per quarter.

$45

Wellness Fee

Paid once per quarter.

$25

Core Courses - 20 Credits

Master of Science in Exercise Science Coursework

The core curriculum of Lionel University’s Master of Science in Exercise Science program provides the advanced scientific foundation needed to succeed in strength and conditioning, sports performance, wellness leadership, clinical exercise science, and human performance coaching. These courses focus on the latest research, analytical tools, and applied science used by today’s leaders in the health, fitness, and performance industries.

Through the core curriculum, students build a deep understanding of exercise physiology, data analysis, motor learning, and emerging issues in exercise science, preparing them to apply evidence-based practices in real-world environments such as athletic performance centers, wellness programs, rehabilitation settings, and fitness organizations.

XSCI501 Contemporary Issues in Exercise Science 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: None

Explore today’s most pressing issues in exercise science. Gain insight into leadership, research opportunities, and the evolving roles within fitness, sport, and human performance sectors.

XSCI502 Data Analysis in Exercise Science 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: None

Learn to collect, analyze, and apply exercise science data. Study research design, test administration, and statistical interpretation. Build skills for evidence-based coaching, performance evaluation, and program improvement.

XSCI503 Advanced Exercise Physiology 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisite: PTR482

Explore advanced systems in exercise physiology. Learn how the body’s major systems respond to training, with emphasis on performance optimization, assessment, weight loss strategies, and disease prevention.

XSCI504 Motor Learning 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: None

Explore how people learn to move. Study motor control, skill acquisition, and how coaching enhances motor learning. Apply real-world strategies to help individuals perform, adapt, and improve.

XSCI505 Exercise Assessment and Prescription 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: PTR251, EXSC503

Assess and design programs that deliver results. Learn to evaluate fitness variables, screen for health risks, and prescribe individualized exercise strategies for strength, cardio, flexibility, and spinal health.

Strength and Conditioning - 20 Credits

Strength and Conditioning Concentration

The Strength and Conditioning concentration within Lionel University’s Master of Science in Exercise Science program prepares students for advanced careers in sports performance, strength coaching, personal training, and athletic development. This concentration blends exercise science research, applied coaching methods, and performance analytics to help graduates lead in the evolving fields of human performance, athlete development, and fitness leadership.

Students develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to design, implement, and evaluate evidence-based strength and conditioning programs for athletes and active populations.

SC501 Exercise Assessment and Prescription 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: EXSC503

Assess, prescribe, and design effective exercise programs.

Learn the foundational principles of exercise assessment, health screening, and program design for diverse populations. Students explore how to evaluate physical activity levels, health risk factors, and fitness readiness while developing safe and effective training strategies.

This course focuses on building practical skills for designing evidence-based exercise prescriptions that improve cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, flexibility, and overall functional health. Special emphasis is placed on flexibility development and low back care for targeted populations.

SC502 Advanced Strength and Conditioning 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: PTR251, EXSC503

Master the science of strength.

Learn how to design advanced strength training programs for diverse athletic populations — including youth, women, and older adults — using evidence-based principles.

SC503 Advanced Topics in Fitness Nutrition 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: PTR259, EXSC503

Fuel performance through evidence-based nutrition.

Learn how to build sport-specific nutrition strategies that optimize training, recovery, and outcomes for athletes of all levels and disciplines.

SC504 Contemporary Coaching Methods 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: EXSC503

Learn how to lead modern athletes with purpose.

Study ethical standards, holistic development, and coaching frameworks that support psychological, social, and physical growth across diverse performance levels.

Fitness Leadership Concentration
- 20 Credits

Fitness Leadership Concentration

The Fitness Leadership concentration within Lionel University’s Master of Science in Exercise Science program prepares students to lead successful careers in the expanding fields of fitness management, wellness leadership, and health and performance entrepreneurship. This concentration combines exercise science expertise with business strategy, leadership development, and operational management to prepare graduates to lead teams, build programs, and grow high-performing fitness organizations.

Students develop the strategic and leadership skills needed to manage fitness facilities, performance centers, wellness programs, and coaching organizations while delivering results-driven services in the modern health and wellness industry.

FL501 Leadership and Professional Development 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: EXSC501

Explore leadership styles, philosophies, and responsibilities.

Conduct personal assessments, develop a leadership vision, and grow the skills to lead ethically, courageously, and confidently in today’s fitness and wellness landscape.

FL502 Advanced Business Aspects of Fitness 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: PTR375, EXSC501

Master the business of fitness.

Learn how to lead and manage successful health and fitness centers. Topics include HR, membership management, facility operations, finance, and business leadership.

FL503 Professional Communication 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: EXSC501

Strengthen your professional voice.

Learn how to communicate confidently, clearly, and persuasively in fitness, wellness, and leadership settings. Build written, verbal, and critical thinking skills that inspire action.

FL504 ECommerce and Internet Presence 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: PTR375, EXSC501

Learn how to run a fitness business online.

Explore how to build e-commerce websites, integrate payment platforms, and use technology to connect with clients and sell services in the digital marketplace.

Corporate, Clinical, and Community Wellness - 20 Credits

Corporate, Clinical, and Community Wellness Concentration

The Corporate, Clinical, and Community Wellness concentration within Lionel University’s Master of Science in Exercise Science program prepares students for impactful careers at the intersection of healthcare, preventive wellness, and exercise science. This concentration focuses on applying exercise physiology, health behavior change, and wellness programming to improve population health in corporate wellness programs, clinical environments, and community health organizations.

Students develop the knowledge and applied skills needed to support individuals in hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, corporate wellness departments, and community health initiatives, helping people improve their health, prevent disease, and live more active lives.

CCCW501 Industrial, Clinical, and Corporate Wellness 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: EXSC501

Design wellness programs that work — and last.

Learn how to assess employee needs, lead sustainable workplace wellness initiatives, and implement programs that boost health, morale, and organizational performance.

CCCW502 Physical Fitness and Epidemiology 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: EXSC501

Explore how physical activity impacts disease risk.

Study the connection between exercise, chronic disease, and population health. Learn how to apply research and epidemiological methods to improve fitness-based prevention strategies.

CCCW503 Organization and Development of School and Community Physical Activity Programs 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: EXSC501

Learn how to design sustainable school and community activity programs.

Explore how to assess needs, build partnerships, and lead initiatives that promote lifelong movement and health across diverse educational and neighborhood settings.

CCCW504 Obesity Prevention and Management 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Requisites: EXSC501, EXSC503

Explore how physical activity combats obesity.

Study how exercise, media, public policy, and community programming can prevent and manage obesity across all populations — with a focus on sustainable, systemic solutions.

Capstone: Research Project - 5 Credits

Capstone: Research Project

The Capstone Research Project is the culminating experience in Lionel University’s Master of Science in Exercise Science program. This capstone allows students to apply the advanced knowledge, analytical skills, and leadership principles developed throughout the program to a real-world challenge in exercise science, human performance, wellness, or athletic development.

Through this course, students design and complete an independent research or applied performance project that integrates scientific research, data analysis, and practical application. The capstone emphasizes evidence-based decision making, program evaluation, and problem-solving within professional exercise science environments.

Students work to identify a meaningful topic aligned with their career interests and concentration area, applying the scientific principles learned in the program to develop solutions that improve performance outcomes, health promotion strategies, or wellness program effectiveness.

EXSC599 Research Project (Capstone) 5 Credits

10 Weeks | Online

Apply research and exercise science expertise to a real-world problem.

The Research Project serves as the capstone course for Lionel University’s Master of Science in Exercise Science, allowing students to integrate and apply the advanced knowledge gained throughout the program. In this course, students design and complete an independent research project focused on a topic related to human performance, exercise science, strength and conditioning, wellness leadership, or health promotion.

Students will conduct literature reviews, analyze data, and apply evidence-based methodologies to investigate a meaningful issue within the field of exercise science. The project culminates in a professional research report or applied performance project that demonstrates the student’s ability to translate research into practical solutions for athletes, clients, and wellness populations.

This capstone experience prepares graduates to lead evidence-based practice, evaluate performance outcomes, and contribute to innovation in exercise science and human performance fields.

How long does the Master of Science in Exercise Science take?

The program requires 45 quarter credits and typically takes 9-12 months to complete. Transfer credits may reduce your time to graduation.

Is the program fully online?

Yes. Courses are 100 percent online with 24/7 access and 10 week course formats designed for working adults.

Can I transfer credits into the program?

Yes. You may transfer up to 70% of eligible college coursework, certifications, or military training. Approved credits can significantly shorten your path to completion.

Is the program FAFSA eligible?

Yes. Eligible students may apply for federal financial aid by completing the FAFSA and exploring available loan programs.

Are military benefits accepted?

Yes. Lionel University supports military affiliated students and accepts eligible military education benefits, including evaluation of Joint Service Transcripts.

Does Lionel offer career services?

Yes. Through Career Connect, students receive lifetime access to career coaching, professional development tools, and job search resources at no additional cost.

Is Lionel University Accredited?

Yes. Lionel University is proud to be accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. DEAC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

How Do I Apply?

Applying to Lionel University is simple. There is no application fee and no test scores are required for admission.

Start your application today

Master of Science in Exercise Science

Master's Degree Career-Relevant Education with Real-World Value

Advanced Knowledge Grounded in Real-World Application

Deeper Specialization in Performance, Longevity, and Leadership

Credentials That Elevate Credibility and Open Doors

Why Earn Your Master’s in Exercise Science?

Opportunity to Expand Your Earning Potential

Opens the Door to Leadership Roles

Build Specialized Expertise That Sets You Apart

Contribute to the Future of Health, Performance, and Longevity

Career Opportunities with an Online Exercise Science Degree

Top Skills Learned in This Program

Top Career Opportunities

Top Work Environments

Top Paying Careers with a Master’s in Exercise Science

Strength and Conditioning Coach

Sports Performance Specialist

Corporate Wellness Director

Clinical Exercise Specialist

Fitness Executive Leader

Human Performance Consultant

Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach

Sports Rehabilitation Specialist

Is a Master's Degree in Exercise Science Right for You?

Learn From Leaders in Exercise Science

Martin Rooney

Bob Rollins

Dr. Erin Nitschke

“OUR FACULTY DON’T JUST TEACH. STUDENTS CONSISTENTLY REPORT THAT THEY DELIVER.”

Career Outlook with a Master of Science in Exercise Science

Why This Career Is Growing

Growing Demand for Preventive Health

Expansion of Performance & Sports Careers

Corporate & Community Wellness Growth

Growing older adult population needing individualized help

Is a Master's Degree in Exercise Science Right for You?

A University Education You Can Trust

Accreditation Disclosure

Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission

Proud to Serve Those Who Serve

Recognized by the Health and Fitness Association

Recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association

Graduate Program Costs

Graduate Credits

International Students

Additional Costs & Fees

Textbook Costs

Admissions & Registration Fees

Transfer Credit Evaluation

Technology Fee

Wellness Fee

Industry Partners That Support Student Success

Transfer Credits. Finish Faster.

Is a Master's Degree in Exercise Science Right for You?

Review Course Curriculum & Credits

Master of Science in Exercise Science Coursework

Strength and Conditioning Concentration

Fitness Leadership Concentration

Corporate, Clinical, and Community Wellness Concentration

Capstone: Research Project

Career Support From Day One and for Life

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