Nutrition and Exercise Sciences (M.S.) - Exercise Science Specialization

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Program Coordinator/Contact

Kendra Kattelmann, Distinguished Professor and Department Head
Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences
Wagner Hall 425, Box 2275A
605-688-5161

Program Information

The M.S. in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences provides an opportunity to specialize in Nutritional Sciences or Exercise Science. Students are prepared for careers in clinical, industry, or research fields. A partial list includes clinical dietitians, public health nutritionists, research dietitians, clinical exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, research assistants or coordinators, instructors, or public health officials.

Student Learning Outcomes

Apply foundational knowledge and skills in the theory and application of nutrition and exercise sciences to professional practice, education, and research.
Develop effective written and oral communication skills.
Critically analyze and synthesize scientific evidence to defend a position.
Demonstrate effective career preparedness. (Transferable Skill: Career Preparedness)

Course Load Information

Students enrolled in six or more state-supported credits within a given semester will be charged the current special discipline fee.

Course Delivery Format

The program consists of lecture, laboratory, and experiential learning opportunities.

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

The Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences aims to provide premier academic programs and high-quality services to students. A limited number of research and teaching assistantships and scholarships may be available to qualified graduate students.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	30 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

Nutrition and Exercise Sciences Core Requirements

HNS 790 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1

Advanced Research Methods

Credits: 3
Graduate students must consult with their advisors prior to registration.

HNS 783 - Research Methods in Health and Nutritional Sciences Credits: 3
NUTR 782 - Epidemiology Credits: 3

Advanced Statistics

Credits: 3
Graduate students must consult with their advisors prior to registration.

HSC 631 - Biostatistics I Credits: 3
HSC 731 - Biostatistics II Credits: 3
STAT 541 - Statistical Methods II Credits: 3

Exercise Science Specialization Requirements

Select 12 credits from the list below.

EXS 550 - Clinical Exercise Physiology Credits: 3
EXS 745 - Applied Biomechanics Credits: 3
EXS 750 - Advanced Exercise Physiology Credits: 3
EXS 751 - Laboratory Techniques in Exercise Physiology Credits: 3
EXS 755 - Applied Exercise Physiology Credits: 3
NUTR 725 - Nutrition and Human Performance Credits: 3
PE 742 - Psychological Aspects of Sport and Exercise Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

HNS 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5 credits required)
Electives Credits: 6

Option B - Research/Design Paper

HNS 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects Credits: 1-7 (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 13

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 35 (Option B)

Additional Admissions Requirements

GRE: Required
TOEFL: required score of 550 paper-based, 79-80 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.0

Letter of application stating the following: primary area of interest (dietetics, exercise science, nutrition, etc.); desired research focus; long-term goals outlining career goals; interest in assistantship (teaching or research); if interested in an assistantship describe experiences to support the assistantship; reason(s) for attending graduate school; current professional certifications and credentials; an interview (in person or via phone) is highly encouraged but not required.
Two recommendations letters from professionals knowledgeable in applicants graduate school potential.

Master’s Nutrition and Exercise Sciences Admission Requirements

Entering students for the Master’s degree will be required to have a Bachelor’s degree in dietetics, exercise science, nutrition, biology, chemistry, epidemiology, or other related field from an accredited institution. Students with other educational backgrounds may be admitted conditionally. They will be required to complete the necessary coursework to eliminate deficiencies in their background during their first semester in the program.

Prerequisites for the Master’s degree include STAT 281 or equivalent, NUTR 315, CHEM 106/108 or CHEM 112/114 or equivalent, BIOL 221, BIOL 325, and for students in the Exercise Science Specialization EXS 350 or equivalent.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .