Master of Science (M.S.) Major in Exercise Science (Thesis Option)

ESS 5101. Graduate Assistant Development.

This course is required of all graduate teaching and instructional assistants in the department. This course provides regular in-service and planned periodic evaluations of instructional and professional responsibilities. This course does not earn graduate degree credit.

ESS 5110. Research Seminar.

This course introduces students to research engagement and professional development within the exercise science master’s program. Students examine a range of scholarly activities, including literature evaluation, research communication practices, and interdisciplinary approaches to inquiry. The course emphasizes evidence based reasoning, critical appraisal of research designs, and the development of skills necessary for participating in research oriented environments. Through guided discussion and structured scholarly tasks, students deepen their understanding of how research questions are formed and how results are disseminated in academic and professional settings.

ESS 5199B. Thesis.

This course provides structured enrollment for students completing the master’s thesis in Exercise Science. It guides students through the development of an independent research project, including the formulation of a research question, review of scholarly literature, and design of an academically rigorous methodology. Students work under the supervision of a faculty advisor or thesis committee to investigate a topic relevant to the field and to produce a written thesis that meets graduate level academic standards. The course emphasizes research planning, systematic inquiry, and scholarly communication. No thesis credit is awarded until students complete the required number of thesis hours and satisfy all program requirements. Prerequisite: ESS 5399A with a grade of "C" or better.

ESS 5201. Graduate Assistant Development.

This course is required of all graduate teaching and instructional assistants in the department. This course provides regular in-service and planned periodic evaluations of instructional and professional responsibilities. This course does not earn graduate degree credit.

ESS 5299B. Thesis.

This course provides structured enrollment for students completing the master’s thesis in Exercise Science. It guides students through the development of an independent research project, including the formulation of a research question, review of scholarly literature, and design of an academically rigorous methodology. Students work under the supervision of a faculty advisor or thesis committee to investigate a topic relevant to the field and to produce a written thesis that meets graduate level academic standards. The course emphasizes research planning, systematic inquiry, and scholarly communication. No thesis credit is awarded until students complete the required number of thesis hours and satisfy all program requirements. Prerequisite: ESS 5399A.

ESS 5304. Motor Behavior.

This course provides an advanced examination of motor learning, motor control, and motor development across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on major theoretical perspectives, information processing, motor program theory, perception–action coupling, attention, feedback, practice conditions, and social cognitive influences on motor behavior. Students explore the physiological, neurological, psychological, and environmental factors that shape skilled performance in research and applied settings.

ESS 5305. Advanced Fitness Assessment and Exercise Prescription.

This course offers an advanced, laboratory-based exploration of scientifically supported methods for fitness assessment and exercise prescription. Students develop practical skills in health screening, physiological exercise testing, data interpretation, and individualized program design through hands-on laboratory work and research projects. The course emphasizes methodological rigor, high-quality measurement techniques, and effective translation of assessment results into evidence based fitness assessment and exercise programming. By integrating applied practice with scientific principles, students gain the competence needed to design and evaluate comprehensive fitness programs for a variety of populations.

ESS 5306. Advanced Exercise Physiology.

This course examines acute physiological responses to exercise and the long-term adaptations that occur with training. Students study the muscular, endocrine, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems with emphasis on how these systems adapt to exercise and training. The course also explores physiological responses to environmental conditions, aging, disease, and high-performance training. Through analysis of current scientific research, the course emphasizes interpretation of physiological data and evaluation of mechanisms of acute response and adaptation to exercise.

ESS 5307. Advanced Resistance Training and Conditioning.

This course examines the development, instruction, and evaluation of resistance training exercises and programs for a variety of populations and performance settings. Students will apply physiological and mechanical principles that inform program design, including adaptations related to muscular endurance, hypertrophy, strength, and power. The course emphasizes evidence based approaches to technique assessment, training progression, and safe application of resistance modalities. Through analysis of human performance and injury prevention strategies, students will learn to evaluate training methods and interpret research to inform practice. The course prepares students to apply scientific concepts to advanced resistance training and athletic performance settings.

ESS 5308. Physical Activity, Disease Prevention and Treatment.

This course investigates the scientific foundations of physical activity in the prevention and treatment of chronic disease. Students examine epidemiological evidence, explore disease pathophysiology, and analyze physiological mechanisms that connect exercise behaviors to health outcomes. Learning activities emphasize evaluation of research methods, approaches to physical activity measurement, and interpretation of clinical and population based findings. By integrating evidence across disciplines, students develop an understanding of how physical activity relates to health related outcomes, chronic disease processes, and factors that inform professional decision making in applied settings.

ESS 5309. Biomechanics for Exercise & Sports Science.

This course examines the mechanical principles underlying human motion, with an emphasis on quantitative analysis of movement in sport and exercise. Students learn to interpret human movement and force data through guided readings, applied problem sets, and hands-on activities. The course emphasizes application of biomechanical concepts to performance and injury contexts, along with foundational kinematic and kinetic analysis and evaluation of biomechanics research in clinical and sport settings.

ESS 5310. Cardiopulmonary Exercise Physiology.

This course examines the structure, function, and integrated physiological responses of the human cardiopulmonary system during rest, acute exercise, and long term training. Students study cardiovascular and pulmonary regulation, neural control mechanisms, and hemodynamics, with attention to how these systems adapt to different exercise modalities. The course introduces foundational concepts in cardiopulmonary pathology, pharmacology, and electrocardiography to support scientific interpretation of clinical and performance related data. Through engagement with current research and physiological data, students develop skills in analyzing cardiopulmonary function and evaluating factors influencing exercise capacity.

ESS 5311. Applied Neuromuscular and Skeletal Muscle Physiology.

This course will provide students with an in depth understanding of the structure and function of neuromuscular and skeletal muscle physiology. This course will examine mechanisms that regulate skeletal muscle force production and human performance in response to acute and chronic exercise. Students engage with advanced laboratory methods such as electromyography and electrical stimulation techniques to examine physiological responses to exercise. Emphasis is placed on research interpretation and the application of physiological principles in performance and clinical settings.

ESS 5312. Applied Exercise Metabolism.

This course examines the biochemical and physiological foundations of exercise metabolism, emphasizing the regulation and integration of energy systems. Students analyze how environmental conditions, training status, and individual physiological variables influence metabolic pathways during exercise, recovery, and long term adaptation. The course also explores connections between metabolic processes and chronic disease risk, drawing on current scientific literature. Through evidence based study of mechanisms, responses, and applications, students develop an advanced understanding of how metabolic factors influence physical performance and health related outcomes.

ESS 5313. Proprioception and Neuromuscular Control in Rehabilitation.

This course examines the scientific foundations of proprioception, sensorimotor function, and neuromuscular control as they relate to human movement and rehabilitation. Students evaluate research addressing somatosensory integration, neuromuscular adaptation, and mechanisms of dysfunction following injury or disease. Through structured analysis of peer reviewed literature, students develop advanced competencies in interpreting neuromuscular outcomes and applying scientific findings in rehabilitation settings. Prerequisite: Department approval.

ESS 5314. Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal Injury.

This course examines the application of biomechanical principles to the pathoetiology, diagnosis, and healing processes of musculoskeletal injuries. Students explore the mechanical properties of bone, ligament, tendon, cartilage, and other tissues, as well as the forces and movement patterns that contribute to injury development and recovery. Instruction combines lecture, case analysis, and review of current research to connect theory with clinical practice. Emphasis is placed on interpreting biomechanical data and understanding injury mechanisms within applied and clinical contexts. Prerequisite: Department approval.

ESS 5317. Exercise Physiology.

This course provides an introduction to the acute and chronic physiological responses to exercise. Students examine energy metabolism, bioenergetics, skeletal muscle structure and function, endocrine regulation, respiratory function, and cardiovascular adaptations across various exercise conditions. The course emphasizes scientific mechanisms that underlie human performance and physiological adaptation to exercise. Students engage with foundational research and apply physiological concepts to exercise-related scenarios to prepare for advanced coursework. Prerequisite: BIO 2430 or equivalent. Corequisite: ESS 5117.

ESS 5320. Biomechanics.

This course introduces the mechanical principles that underlie human movement and anatomical function. Students study key concepts in kinematics, kinetics, and movement analysis to understand how mechanical variables influence technique, performance, and injury risk. The course emphasizes both qualitative and quantitative approaches to analyzing human motion and explores how biomechanical evidence informs decisions related to technique, equipment, and training. Prerequisite: BIO 2430 or equivalent with a grade of "D" or better.

ESS 5327. Application of Strength and Conditioning Principles.

This course examines strength and conditioning programming methods with an emphasis on assessment, exercise prescription, and performance monitoring across athletic populations. Students learn to apply evidence-based techniques using advanced technologies and both traditional and non-traditional equipment to support sport performance and reduce injury risk. The course integrates classroom learning with hands-on application to evaluate athletic abilities, interpret training data, and translate findings into practical program design. Prerequisite: ESS 5307 with a grade of "C" or better.

ESS 5328. Principles of Endurance Training.

This course examines the advanced physiological mechanisms, testing strategies, and training methods used to optimize endurance performance. Students critically evaluate established and emerging endurance training practices and apply scientific evidence to the design of sport-specific testing protocols and training programs. Emphasis is placed on fatigue models, training intensity distribution, performance monitoring, and integration of physiological principles into endurance program development. Through critical evaluation of research and application of scientific principles, students design sport specific testing protocols and construct training programs that reflect physiological objectives and contextual demands.

ESS 5344. Science of Sport Coaching and Teaching.

This course examines evidence based instructional and coaching practices used in sport, physical fitness, and community settings. Students study research on the teaching–learning–coaching process and learn methods for observing, analyzing, and refining instructional practices. The course emphasizes application of pedagogical principles, data informed reflection, and development of professional decision making skills. Through structured analysis and guided practice, students learn to design and implement effective coaching pedagogy in sport and fitness settings.

ESS 5346. Research Methods in Health and Human Performance.

This course introduces research methods used in health and human performance. Students examine approaches to locating, evaluating, and synthesizing scholarly literature, as well as strategies for selecting appropriate research study designs. Emphasis is placed on constructing research questions, interpreting empirical findings, and preparing research proposals aligned with accepted professional standards. By engaging with methodological concepts and practical applications, students develop foundational skills for research proposal development, conducting research, and applying evidence-based practice in clinical and sport settings.

ESS 5347. Independent Study in Exercise Science.

This course provides supervised independent study in exercise science, allowing students to collaborate with a faculty member on a project aligned with academic or professional goals. Students implement structured inquiry processes, use appropriate research or applied methods, and create discipline-relevant written or oral products. The course emphasizes advanced inquiry, methodological decision-making, and professional communication. Faculty mentorship supports project planning, execution, and evaluation throughout the term.

ESS 5354. Positive Youth Development Through Sport & Physical Activity.

This course examines theory, research, and applied approaches related to youth sport and physical activity settings. Students study social, psychological, pedagogical, philosophical, and physical factors that influence young people’s experiences in organized and informal sport contexts. Topics include developmental changes from childhood through adolescence, features of sport environments that shape participant experiences, and approaches used by practitioners to structure programs. Through analysis of peer-reviewed research and discussion-based exploration of practical applications relevant to varied professional contexts, students connect research evidence to practice within an analytical framework.

ESS 5355. Psychosocial Aspects of Coaching High-Level Sport.

This course examines psychological and social factors that influence coaching practices and athlete development in high level sport contexts such as collegiate, professional, and elite settings. Students engage with practical theory and peer-reviewed research on coaching effectiveness, athlete well being, mental skills, and team dynamics. The course emphasizes analysis of peer-reviewed research to inform evidence based practice relevant to the coaching profession in various settings, providing additional opportunities to interpret findings and apply them within various performance environments.

ESS 5356. Applied Statistics in Health and Human Performance.

This course examines quantitative statistical methods used in the planning and conduct of experimental and correlational research related to health and human performance. Emphasis is placed on core statistical concepts, data analysis, and interpretation of research findings. Instruction uses applied methodology, including analysis of real-world datasets, interpretation of statistical output, and selection of appropriate statistical techniques for different research designs. The course also addresses assumptions underlying statistical tests and the communication of quantitative results in professional and research contexts.

ESS 5398. Internship in Exercise and Sports Science.

This course provides students with a minimum of 240 hours of supervised, work related experience in exercise and health related settings serving various populations. Students apply foundational principles of exercise testing, program design, and client monitoring within professional environments. The course emphasizes the development of practical skills in implementing appropriate exercise programs, documenting observations, and communicating with supervisors. Through structured mentorship and reflection, students gain exposure to professional expectations, workplace standards, and evidence informed practices that support competent performance in applied exercise science professions. Prerequisite: ESS 5306 with a grade of "C" or better.

ESS 5399A. Thesis.

This course provides structured enrollment for students completing the master’s thesis in Exercise Science. It guides students through the development of an independent research project, including the formulation of a research question, review of scholarly literature, and design of an academically rigorous methodology. Students work under the supervision of a faculty advisor or thesis committee to investigate a topic relevant to the field and to produce a written thesis that meets graduate level academic standards. The course emphasizes research planning, systematic inquiry, and scholarly communication. No thesis credit is awarded until students complete the required number of thesis hours and satisfy all program requirements. Prerequisite: ESS 5346 and ESS 5356 all with a grade of "C" or better.

ESS 5399B. Thesis.

This course provides structured enrollment for students completing the master’s thesis in Exercise Science. It guides students through the development of an independent research project, including the formulation of a research question, review of scholarly literature, and design of an academically rigorous methodology. Students work under the supervision of a faculty advisor or thesis committee to investigate a topic relevant to the field and to produce a written thesis that meets graduate level academic standards. The course emphasizes research planning, systematic inquiry, and scholarly communication. No thesis credit is awarded until students complete the required number of thesis hours and satisfy all program requirements. Prerequisite: ESS 5399A with a grade of "C" or better.

ESS 5599B. Thesis.

This course provides structured enrollment for students completing the master’s thesis in Exercise Science. It guides students through the development of an independent research project, including the formulation of a research question, review of scholarly literature, and design of an academically rigorous methodology. Students work under the supervision of a faculty advisor or thesis committee to investigate a topic relevant to the field and to produce a written thesis that meets graduate level academic standards. The course emphasizes research planning, systematic inquiry, and scholarly communication. No thesis credit is awarded until students complete the required number of thesis hours and satisfy all program requirements. Prerequisite: ESS 5399A with a grade of "C" or better.

ESS 5698. Internship in Exercise and Sports Science.

This course provides students with a minimum of 480 hours of supervised, work related experience in exercise and health related settings serving various populations. Students apply foundational principles of exercise testing, program design, and client monitoring within professional environments. The course emphasizes the development of practical skills in implementing appropriate exercise programs, documenting observations, and communicating with supervisors. Through structured mentorship and reflection, students gain exposure to professional expectations, workplace standards, and evidence informed practices that support competent performance in applied exercise science professions.

ESS 5999B. Thesis.

This course provides structured enrollment for students completing the master’s thesis in Exercise Science. It guides students through the development of an independent research project, including the formulation of a research question, review of scholarly literature, and design of an academically rigorous methodology. Students work under the supervision of a faculty advisor or thesis committee to investigate a topic relevant to the field and to produce a written thesis that meets graduate level academic standards. The course emphasizes research planning, systematic inquiry, and scholarly communication. No thesis credit is awarded until students complete the required number of thesis hours and satisfy all program requirements. Prerequisite: ESS 5399A with a grade of "C" or better.