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International Accelerator Program

Exercise Science, MS

Exercise scientists study the relationship between exercise participation and human health, and research focuses on understanding why regular physical activity prevents disease and promotes health. Want to pursue a Ph.D. after Graduate School? USC's EXSC Ph.D. program ranks #1 in the nation. 

The Master of Science (MS) degree in Exercise Science prepares students for careers in academia and multiple health-related specialties and professions within the broad scope of Exercise Physiology, such as exercise physiologist, fitness coordinator, rehabilitation coordinator, and many more. Elective coursework can tailor your studies to your unique interests; for example, skeletal muscle physiology, endocrinology in exercise and health, neural repair and rehabilitation, and community-based interventions for physical activity. 

  • Thesis and non-thesis options are available for this program. 

  • STEM designated degree

Acceptance Criteria

Requirements  Direct Master's Accelerator  Advanced Master's Accelerator 
 GPA  3.0 3.0
 IELTS 6.5 (no sub-score lower than 6.0)   6.0 (no sub-score lower than 5.5)
TOEFL 80 (no part below 18) 74 (no part below 16)
GRE Required   Yes No*
Qualifying Undergraduate Degrees  Four-year undergraduate degree, or equivalent in exercise science, kinesiology, biology, chemistry, pre-med, nutrition, health sciences, physiology, biochemistry, neuroscience, physical therapy, medical doctor, from an accredited university.
Additional Requirements    Introduction courses in Human Anatomy and Physiology.
Resume/CV; Statement of Purpose and Objectives describing academic and research interests, relevant work experiences, and academic/professional goals; Three letters of recommendation from academic/or professional sources. Complete Transcript.  		Introduction courses in Human Anatomy and Physiology.
Available Entry    Fall and Spring    

*Completion of the GRE is not required for the Advanced Master's Accelerator, however it must be completed prior to progression. If a student has not taken the GRE as an Advanced Master's Accelerator student, GRE preparation will be built into the student's cirriculum.  

Sample coursework:

  • Introduction to Biostatistics
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Introduction to Epidemiology
  • Physical Activity and Health: Epidemiology, Research, and Practice

Tuition Costs 

For information regarding our tuition and fees, please see our Costs Overview.  

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