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Exercise Physiology

Program Description

 

 

The Specialization in Exercise Physiology

The graduate specialization in Exercise Physiology is designed to prepare individuals to pursue research careers in exercise physiology related fields, or to prepare students for immediate careers in the wellness industry, including hospital and corporate fitness centers, as well as clinical settings.

The students in the fitness/wellness are provided the background, knowledge, testing skills and practical experience so they can prescribe safe fitness/wellness programs in a variety of settings.  The student also learns the knowledge to act as a liaison between the medical community and the layperson regarding the health implications of exercise.  

Students preparing for the Ph.D. are provided an advanced understanding of how the physiological constructs are applied to exercise and the environment, as well as an understanding of the research process.  At the same time, the student develops an understanding of laboratory techniques and acquires laboratory skills.  Many graduate students have presented their thesis at the American College of Sports Medicine National and Regional Meetings, as well as other professional meetings.

The degree requirements include a minimum of 25 hours of coursework, not including any prerequisites deemed necessary by the admissions committee, a written comprehensive examination upon completion of the course work, and a thesis.

Typical Program:

First Year -

            Fall           EXSS 780 *      Graduate Exercise Physiology
EXSS 700 * Data Analysis
EXSS 782 Nutritional Aspects of Exercise
Spring EXSS 705 * Research Techniques
EXSS 783 Assessment of Physiological Function or
EXSS 410 Exercise Testing and Prescription or
Selective

Second Year -

           Fall            EXSS 785 *      Seminar in Exercise Physiology
EXSS 789 Practicum in Exercise Physiology or
EXSS 990 Research in Exercise and Sport Science or
EXSS 781 Clinical Exercise Physiology or
Other selective
Spring EXSS 993 * Master's Thesis (3-5 hours)

*Required of all exercise physiology majors

 

The UNIVERSITY of  NORTH CAROLINA  at CHAPEL HILL