Health, Nutrition and Exercise Science
For individuals who
Want to pursue a master's degree with an emphasis in the areas of physical activity, exercise science, nutrition, and health promotion.
Looking for
A customizable degree, hands-on research opportunities and the opportunity to work in a wide array of careers.
To become
- Nutritionist
- Athletic Trainer
- Exercise Physiologist
- Wellness Coach
- Wellness Education Director
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Health, Nutrition, and Exercise Sciences (HNES) offers graduate study options in Exercise/Nutrition Science (blended learning: online and in-person courses) and Leadership in Physical Education and Sport (online program at in-state tuition rates for out-of-state and international students). The different "options" represent the emphasis provided in the curriculum and culminating experience leading to the M.S degree. There is also an accelerated B.S./M.S. in Dietetics and Nutrition path within the M.S. option in Exercise/Nutrition Science.
M.S- Health, Nutrition and Exercise Sciences
Option-Exercise/Nutrition Science
The Exercise/Nutrition Science option prepares the graduate for advanced positions with an emphasis in the areas of physical activity, exercise science, nutrition, and health promotion. The department is devoted to researching and understanding the long-term effects of physical activity and nutrition, and translating this research into effective exercise science and wellness programs for children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. This option is appropriate for Nutrition, Dietetics, and Exercise Science graduates. There are three paths to complete the MS degree in this option (Plan A- Thesis, Plan B- Paper, Plan C- Internship/Capstone).
Accelerated BS/MS in Dietetics and Nutrition
This is a combined program for undergraduate dietetics students. Students apply for the dietetics program in the spring of their second (sophomore) year and then apply for the accelerated M.S. program in the fall of their third (junior) year. Students in this option will earn a B.S. in Dietetics, an M.S. in Exercise/Nutrition Science, and complete the required 1200 hours of supervised practice to sit for the national Registration Exam for Dietitians. The program is designed to be completed in 5 years. Students who are interested should contact the College of Human Development and Education Academic Advisor located in EML 270 for more information.
Option- Leadership in Physical Education and Sport
The Leadership in Physical Education and Sport (LPES) option is an online program that prepares teachers, coaches, and sport leaders to become actively engaged in leadership roles within school systems or professional organizations. This degree prepares students to be master teachers, head coaches, department heads, and activities directors at the interscholastic level; assistant coaches, lecturers, and assistant or lead directors at the intercollegiate level; and to become actively engaged in leadership roles within professional organizations. Students in this option pay in-state tuition rates, despite location.
A 3.0 is needed to be considered for full acceptance into the LPES program. Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 will be considered for conditional acceptance and will have to complete 6 graduate credit hours with grades of at least B to be considered for full standing. Meeting these criteria does not guarantee acceptance.