Program Overview
The Movement Sciences & Health M.S. program at the University of West Florida prepares students to become leaders in exercise science and sports coaching. The program offers two specializations: Exercise Science and Sports Performance and Coaching. Graduates are equipped with specialized knowledge and practical skills to guide athletes, students, and clients towards achieving their health and performance goals. The program is endorsed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognition Program (ERP).
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Movement Sciences & Health M.S. program at the University of West Florida aims to cultivate future leaders in exercise science and sports coaching. By equipping graduates with specialized knowledge and practical skills, the program empowers them to guide athletes, students, and clients towards achieving their health and performance goals.
Objectives:
- Deepen understanding of the relationship between exercise and enhanced fitness, athletic performance, and overall well-being.
- Provide two specialization tracks: Exercise Science and Sports Performance and Coaching.
- Foster a harmonious balance between theoretical instruction and hands-on experience to prepare graduates for professional success.
- Facilitate the development of a professional network to support career exploration, employment opportunities, and continued academic pursuits.
Outline:
Exercise Science Specialization:
- Focuses on advanced study in human performance, strength and conditioning, and clinical exercise physiology.
- Faculty actively engaged in research in both basic and applied aspects of human performance.
- Option to tailor studies towards applied exercise physiology (requiring a capstone internship experience) or research (culminating in a thesis).
- Endorsed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognition Program (ERP).
Sports Performance and Coaching Specialization:
- Emphasizes the practical application of physical activity promotion and performance in K-12 and community settings.
- Allows students to choose between a thesis or a final project.
Teaching:
- Faculty dedicated to personalized learning, tailoring instruction to individual student goals.
- Extensive use of state-of-the-art laboratories, research tools, and equipment to enhance practical experience.
- Guest lectures and workshops by industry professionals to provide real-world insights.
Careers:
Exercise Science Specialization:
- Strength and conditioning coach
- Clinical exercise physiologist
- PhD program or professional degree
- Medical/clinical setting
Sports Performance and Coaching Specialization:
- Physical education teacher
- Athletic coach
- Fitness trainer
- Wellness director
- Health and wellness product sales representative
Employers:
- EXOS Athletes’ Performance Institute
- NCAA Athletics Programs
- Sacred Heart Cardiac Rehabilitation
- UConn's Korey Stringer Institute
- Sports Medicine Clinics
- Professional Sports Teams
- U.S. Olympic Training Centers and Affiliated Sports Teams
- Industrial/Corporate Fitness
- K-12 School Districts
