Master of Science in Exercise Science and Integrated Wellness
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Exercise Science program is designed to prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills to implement exercise and wellness programs for a diverse population. This 45-credit curriculum was developed to provide an integrated and holistic wellness approach to working with a physically active population. Students will have the opportunity to prepare for nationally recognized professional certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association, and the American Council on Exercise.
Program Highlights
- 100% Online, Asynchronous
- 18 months completion
- 45 credits; 10 courses each 4.5 credit hours
- 3 starts per academic year – Fall, Winter, Spring
- Part-time options available
- Integrative educational curriculum
Career Opportunities
- Fitness training consultants
- Personal trainers
- Fitness specialists
- Wellness coaches
Students will be prepared to sit for Certified Personal Training certifications through a variety of national organizations. According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 39 percent over the next eight years, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Expected Program Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Identify and adhere to professional standards, codes of conduct, and scopes of practice
- Identify concepts & structures of anatomy, physiology, human movement science, exercise metabolism, nutrition, and supplementation
- Select, perform, and interpret results from fitness assessments and client intake interview
- Discuss and demonstrate proper exercise and communication techniques and core competencies in wellness coaching
- Design client-specific exercise/wellness programs based on assessment results, client abilities, and evidence; and determine individualized wellness coaching strategies which guide the client from intake to self-sufficiency
- Recognize and apply exercise psychology and behavioral coaching techniques for a wide variety of clients
- Explain the intersection of the components of wellness in facilitation to overall wellbeing and optimizing one's capabilities and/or capacity
- Determine evidence-based sources of information to inform effective coaching/training practices
Admission Minimum Requirements
- Completion of bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 (a lower GPA will require the completion of a personal statement and program chair approval)
Graduation Requirements
MsExSci students must complete a minimum of 45 credits and have a minimum 3.0 GPA with a minimum of 31.5 credits in residence. MSExSci students must complete their degree within five years following matriculation into the program. Students must successfully complete Practicum in Exercise Science in order to graduate from the program.
Degree Requirements
To be considered for transferring in courses (Foundations of Exercise Science, Human Form and Function for the Upper Extremity, and Human Form and Function for the Lower Extremity), a transfer form with official transcripts must be included with application. Subject to approval.
Year 1
Term 1
| ON-EX5100 | Foundations of Exercise Science | 4.5 |
| ON-EX5101 | Human Form and Function for the Upper Extremity | 4.5 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 9.0 |
Term 2
| ON-EX5102 | Human Form and Function for the Lower Extremity | 4.5 |
| ON-EX5103 | Evidence Based Practice in Exercise Science | 4.5 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 9.0 |
Term 3
| ON-EX6102 | Practical Integrated Approach for General Population | 4.5 |
| ON-EX6103 | Practical Integrated Approach for Special Populations | 4.5 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 9.0 |
Year II
Term 1
| ON-EX6104 | Nutrition for Physical Activity | 4.5 |
| ON-EX6105 | Wellness: The Mind Body Connection | 4.5 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 9.0 |
Term 2
| ON-EX6106 | Behavior Change in Health & Physical Activity | 4.5 |
| ON-EX6107 | Practicum in Exercise Science | 4.5 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 9.0 |
Total Requirements
| Total Core Course Credit |
45 |
| Total Requirements |
45 |
Curriculum and course changes in the 2024-2025 Bastyr University Catalog are applicable to students entering during the 2024-2025 academic year. Please refer to the appropriate catalog if interested in curriculum and courses required for any other entering year.