Accelerated Combined Degrees
This accelerated combined degree program allows students to complete two degrees in just five academic years.
- BS in Exercise Science
- MS in Exercise Physiology
Students receive the same benefits of both curriculums and move seamlessly from the undergraduate program to graduate studies. You will save time and money, as well as jump-start your career.
Admission Requirements
SIUE undergraduate students who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:
- Major in exercise science
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA
- Earn an A or B in KIN 350 Exercise Physiology
- Be within 32 hour credit hours of bachelor's degree completion at intended entry term
How to Apply
- Submit a graduate admission application and pay the $40 application fee. Apply for the term in which you plan to begin the combined bachelor's and graduate courses.
- After submitting your application, complete the "plan of study" form with approval from your undergraduate advisor and graduate program director.
Please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at [email protected] if you have questions about the application process.
Sample Curriculum
The accelerated master's in exercise physiology requires that students complete six-nine credit hours of approved graduate courses during the undergraduate senior year. These credit hours are shared and apply to both the BS in exercise science and the MS in exercise physiology.
Senior Year (Fall Semester)
(3) KIN 412 Biology of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease
(3) KIN 416 Exercise Assessment/Programming
(3) KIN 512 Advanced Exercise Physiology - shared credit
(3) KIN 541 Advanced Human Nutrition and Metabolism - shared credit
(3) Life, Physical or Social Science (*)
15 Total Credits
Senior Year (Spring Semester)
(3) KIN 426 Cardiac Pulmonary Rehabilitation
(3) KIN 460 Internship in Exercise Science
(3) KIN 464 Senior Assignment in Exercise Science
(3) KIN 514 Advanced Exercise Assessment and Prescription - shared credit
(3) Breadth Info & Communication in Society (BICS; STAT 107 or ACS 204 recommended)
15 Total Credits
Graduate Year
Choose between thesis (KIN 599) option requiring 30 credit hours or non-thesis option requiring 30 credit hours including internship and national certification exam.
Required Core Courses
18 credit hours, assuming 9 hours listed above (512, 541, 514) completed during senior year
- (3) KIN 501 Exercise Psychology
- (3) KIN 509 Research Methods in Kinesiology
- (3) KIN 516 Advanced Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiology
- (3) KIN 517 Pathophysiology and Treatment of Obesity
- (3) KIN 518 Exercise Endocrinology
- (3) KIN 511 Advanced Concepts in Strength and Conditioning OR KIN 513 Clinical Exercise Physiology (choose one)
Capstone Experience
Students must complete one of two options (3 credit hours).
- Non-Thesis Option: KIN 555 Internship in Exercise Physiology (3) and a national certification exam
OR - Thesis Option: KIN 599 Thesis (3)
Course Sequence
Students in the accelerated non-thesis option are able to begin in the fall, spring or summer and can complete all degree requirements in 12, 18 or 24 months. Students in the thesis option typically require two academic years to complete the thesis project and curriculum.
Non-Thesis Option
The non-thesis option is for students who are not interested in pursuing a doctorate. Through classroom learning, laboratory experience and true hands-on experience, the non-thesis exercise physiology program produces exceptional graduates who are well prepared for the professional work environment. The option provides coursework and laboratory experience that prepares students for careers in adult fitness, hospital or corporate-based wellness programs, cardiac rehabilitation, strength and conditioning specialists, or professional careers (e.g., physical therapy, occupation therapy, dentistry, pharmacy, etc.)
Thesis Option
The thesis option is intended to give exceptional students knowledge in basic medical and scientific areas to prepare them to pursue a doctoral degree in exercise physiology. It should be pursued only by students who have a serious commitment to the science of exercise physiology. Students focus on the study of the human body's responses and adaptations to physical activity. Students in the thesis option will typically take two academic years to complete the coursework and research thesis. The student and faculty advisor will match thesis and coursework with the goals of the students to provide an exceptional learning experience.
Please review the academic policy for program requirements and restrictions.
