Applied Exercise and Health Science, MS

Contact: Dr. Cherilyn Hultquist, AEHS Graduate Program Coordinator
Phone: (770) 794-7600
http://www.kennesaw.edu/chhs/essm/aehs/index.html

Program Description

The Master of Science with a major in Applied Exercise and Health Science (AEHS) is a 36 semester hour graduate study program that offers graduate students the opportunity to blend theory with practical application through community-based experiential opportunities and laboratory-based instruction in exercise and health science. Majors select a concentration area in Exercise Physiology or Worksite and Community Health Promotion. Exercise Physiology students will focus on the physiological responses/adaptations to exercise through laboratory-based activities and exposure to research investigation. Worksite and Community Health Promotion students learn to implement effective health promotion and disease prevention programs based on public health policy, current research, and community needs. Also, the program features a choice among three capstone experiences: 1) Administrative Field Experience, 2) Master’s Project, or 3) Master’s Thesis.

The program is delivered in a new state-of-the-art Health Sciences building that provides study areas, computer labs, a graduate lounge, and private group meeting areas for students. There is a 6,250 square foot Exercise Science laboratory complex which includes a Biomechanics lab, Exercise Physiology lab (instructional area and four independent research spaces), Psychophysiology lab, and research offices. Graduate Assistantship opportunities are available but competitive. Graduate Assistants work with individual faculty members in research labs or assist with course instruction.

General Requirements for Admission

1. Baccalaureate degree in Exercise and Health Science or equivalent from a nationally accredited institution with a major GPA of at least 3.0.
2. Applicants from other disciplines or related fields will be considered for admission with evidence of foundational coursework in statistics/research methods and exercise physiology, or statistics/research methods and health promotion.
3. Course deficiencies can be satisfied by completing one or more undergraduate courses prior to admission to the graduate program.
4. International applicants are subject to the University’s requirements for admission.
5. A minimum combined total score of 300 or higher in the verbal and quantitative categories on the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination is expected. A higher GPA may compensate for lower GRE scores.
6. A formal statement of personal goals for the program.
7. Two references (preferably from academic sources).
8. An interview may be requested prior to admission.

Transfer Credit

A student may transfer up to nine semester hours of graduate credit from other nationally accredited institutions. To be transferred, coursework from other institutions must correspond to Kennesaw State University’s MS AEHS curriculum. The student must provide course description and syllabus for consideration and the amount of credit granted will be at the discretion of the program director. A minimum grade of “B” must have been received in the course and the course work must be no more than five years old. See the graduate program coordinator to begin the transfer process.

Grades

Expectations for satisfactory graduate level student performance are detailed in the Academic Policies section of this catalog.

Petition to Graduate

Candidates of MS AEHS must petition to graduate at least one semester prior to completion of their degree requirements.

Program of Study

The Master of Science in Applied Exercise and Health Science program is offered in a traditional model of curriculum instruction over four consecutive semesters beginning each fall semester. Most program classes will be scheduled in late afternoons and early evenings to allow working professionals to pursue advanced preparation with minimum disruption to ongoing career commitments. The curriculum is comprised of 36 semester hours divided into AEHS Core, Concentration Core, Capstone Experience, and approved electives.

Students admitted to the program will work closely with the Graduate Program Coordinator to develop their program of study. Any changes to the program of study must be approved by the Graduate Program Coordinator.