For those interested in the intersection of health and fitness, a career in exercise science might be a perfect fit. According to Indeed, exercise science is “the study of how movement impacts the human body, focusing on the positive effects of physical fitness on individuals’ health problems and overall well-being.” It is an important discipline that offers the chance to make a positive impact on people’s lives, while also pursuing a promising career.
One great option for breaking into the field is through Aurora University’s online Master of Science (MS) in Exercise Science program. This unique academic path combines coursework and an internship or capstone experience to prepare students to become certified clinical exercise physiologists. It’s also a degree program that is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), making it an ideal choice for professionals who want to distinguish themselves in the field.
What Is Exercise Science and What Is Its Role in Healthcare?
Exercise science is focused primarily on the impact of fitness on the human body, according to Indeed. More specifically, the National Library of Medicine defines it as the “scientific study of human movement performed to maintain or improve physical fitness,” and it encompasses subjects like “biomechanics, exercise physiology, exercise psychology, cardiac rehabilitation, athletic training, and fitness for special population groups.”
As an article in the journal Frontiers in Sports and Active Living notes, physical inactivity is a leading risk factor for mortality around the world and poses a significant problem for healthcare systems from both a societal and economic perspective. Because of this, “the integration of exercise science graduates into healthcare is of global interest.”
How an Online Exercise Science Program Prepares Students for the Future
The knowledge foundation provided by Aurora University’s online MS in Exercise Science program directly prepares graduates for the prestigious American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) certification — an important stepping stone to a career in the field. A specialist certified through this program is trained to help “increase the likelihood of long-term physical, social and economic independence of patients through individualized patient education, behavior change and primary and secondary prevention strategies.”
Achieving the CEP certification requires a master’s degree in clinical exercise physiology like the one offered by Aurora University, as well as 600 hours of hands-on clinical experience. An alternative route is to attain a bachelor’s degree in either exercise science, exercise physiology, or an equivalent, plus 1,200 hours of clinical experience. Once students have gained the appropriate credentials and hands-on experience, all that’s required is to apply for the ACSM-CEP exam and pass it successfully.
Learn more about Aurora University's online MS in Exercise Science program.
Explore the chance to make a positive impact on people's lives, while also pursuing a promising career with Aurora University's online MS in Exercise Science program.
Learn MoreCareer Paths and Salary Expectations for Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologists
With the combination of an online MS in Exercise Science and ACSM-CEP certification, graduates will be prepared for a variety of interesting and rewarding career paths. The job outlook for exercise physiologists is particularly bright. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that employment in the sector is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, with a median annual wage of $58,160.
Some of the specialized career options for certified exercise physiologists include applied exercise physiologists, who study the physiological effects of exercise, according to the BLS. On the other hand, clinical exercise physiologists are professionals who work with a broad range of clients in many different settings. “For example, they may design exercise programs or promote wellness strategies in schools, taking into account the students’ ages, development, and other factors,” notes the BLS.
No matter what students’ specific interest in the field may be, the flexibility and breadth of Aurora University’s online MS in Exercise Science program will open all the right doors. For people who want to combine their passion for fitness and health with a single calling, it might be just what they are looking for.
Learn more about Aurora University’s online MS in Exercise Science program.
