Human Performance (Exercise Science), M.S.

Master of Science: Human Performance

Course requirements for the Master of Science degree in Human Performance include a minimum of thirty-six (36) semester hours of graduate work plus any undergraduate courses deemed necessary of thirty-six (36) semester hours of graduate work plus any undergraduate courses deemed necessary to correct deficiencies in the student’s background. This degree program is designed to prepare professionals for leadership roles as physical educators or exercise specialists. This degree program prepares students for advanced graduate work or careers in the following emphasis areas: exercise science or physical education. A 3.0 GPA is required for graduation.

These degree program emphases provide concentrations of graduate level courses which are designed to facilitate preparation for attainment of professional certifications in human performance fields. These include: American College of Sports Medicine certifications (exercise specialist and health fitness instructor); National Strength and Conditioning Association certifications (strength and conditioning specialists), and state of Mississippi AA teacher licensure for physical education.

Requirements for Human Performance: Exercise Science Emphasis

Career Opportunities

This emphasis is specifically designed to prepare students as exercise physiologists or clinical exercise specialists. Career opportunities for the student choosing the exercise science emphasis exist in hospital, corporate, university, and wellness facilities.

Laboratories, Field Experiences, Internships, Practica

The exercise science emphasis offers several laboratory experiences designed to enhance the student’s knowledge of metabolic testing, electrocardiography, graded exercise testing, exercise prescription, and blood collection/analysis. Courses with laboratory content include HPR 601 , HPR 602 , HPR 701 /HPR 701L , and HPR 735 . Each student may also enroll in six (6) hours of HPR 696 - Practicum . HPR 696  provides the master’s level student with opportunities for practical application of relevant theories in professional field setting.

Special Program Requirements

Students wishing to select the exercise science emphasis must have completed a baccalaureate degree in exercise science (or a related field), one course from either chemistry or biology, and additional undergraduate work in physiology and nutrition.

Comprehenisve Exam

A comprehensive exam is required for all master’s students and must be passed before proceeding to graduation. A 3.0 GPA is required for graduation.

Course Requirements (38-44 hours minimum)

• BSC 551 - Human Physiology 3 hrs.
• HPR 601 - Exercise Physiology 3 hrs.
• HPR 602 - Graded Exercise Testing 3 hrs.
• HPR 680 - Research Techniques I 3 hrs.
• HPR 701 - Advanced Exercise Physiology I 3 hrs.
• HPR 701L - Advanced Exercise Physiology I Laboratory 2 hrs.
• HPR 706 - Cardiovascular Physiology 3 hrs.
• HPR 733 - Nutrition and Human Performance 3 hrs.
• HPR 735 - Electrocardiography 3 hrs.
• HPR 792 - Special Problems 3 hrs.