Clinical Exercise Physiology

In clinical exercise physiology (CEP), exercise is used to help patients manage or reduce their risk of chronic disease. Clinicians develop exercise recommendations, administer diagnostics tests and provide guidance that promotes healthy lifestyles. This Master’s degree program provides in-depth knowledge and hands-on experiences in preventive and rehabilitative practices for patients at-risk of or challenged by cardiovascular, pulmonary and metabolic diseases, orthopedic or musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and neoplastic immunological or hematological diseases, as well as healthy and low-risk populations. The curriculum provides the knowledge, clinical experience and skills needed by individuals preparing for successful completion of the exam for the ACSM clinical exercise physiologist certification. 

The program prepares students for clinical and research careers in clinics, research centers, or health and wellness centers, especially careers in cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, diabetes prevention, cancer prevention and rehabilitation, obesity prevention and treatment, and other related careers. CEPs also could pursue positions working with both amateur and professional athletes who aspire to improve their performance. If further advanced education is of interest, this program provides an excellent foundation for doctoral work in physical therapy, occupational therapy and other related disciplines or in preparation for medical school.