Exercise Physiology at SIUE
A Master of Science in kinesiology with a specialization in exercise physiology from the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior is offered as an adult evening program designed in accordance with the American College of Sports Medicine [ACSM] for certification as a certified clinical exercise physiologist. The curriculum in the Department of Applied Health is designed to prepare individuals for careers as exercise specialists directing cardiac preventive and rehabilitative programs, personal training, hospitals, and corporate wellness programs, positions in health and exercise science programs, or further study in graduate programs or allied health programs in medicine or physical/occupational therapy. Students are able to begin in the fall, spring or summer, and can complete all degree requirements in 12-22 months.
The exercise physiology program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences. The exercise physiology program was subsequently accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) in the summer of 2014 and is one of only five percent of programs nationally and the only program in Illinois to have earned this accreditation and acclaim. The program reports annual outcome data and is held to the high standards of the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES). For example, over the last three academic years, the exercise physiology program reported a 95% retention rate and a graduate placement rate of 94%. The ACSM endorses the exercise physiology program as matching the goals of the Clinical Exercise Physiologists level of certification. This program is not designed for professional licensure. For more information, please contact Dr. Erik Kirk, program director, at ekirk@siue.edu.
Degrees Available at SIUE
- Master of Science in Kinesiology with a specialization in Exercise Physiology
Combined Degree
Why Exercise Physiology?
A rapidly growing field, exercise physiology uses exercise, nutrition and behavior retention in the treatment of healthy or unhealthy individuals . Exercise physiologists are responsible for the assessment, improvement, and maintenance of health and fitness; rehabilitation of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases/disabilities; and the professional guidance of athletes and others interested in sports training.
Program Format
The program can be completed through a mix of traditional daytime courses and online courses.
What can I do with a degree in exercise physiology?
Career opportunities for individuals graduating with a degree in exercise physiology are numerous. The demand for exercise physiologists is outstanding and is expected to remain very strong due to the increasing emphasis on prevention of illness and the use of exercise as a means of promoting good health.
