Skip to Content

Exercise Science, M.S.

Arnold School of Public Health

Acquire a strong foundation in exercise physiology, statistics and research methods suitable for a variety of careers around health and performance of individuals through exercise and training.

Students gain career options from rehabilitation and conditioning to sport science and research. Specialize in applied physiology, neuro-rehabilitation or sports performance, and participate in ongoing research. Enjoy program flexibility to select coursework in areas of interest and the option to complete a thesis or project.

Program Highlights

  • Cup style trophy icon.

    Expert Faculty

    Join a program with nationally and internationally recognized experts in exercise science and physical activity.

  • Athletic shoe in motion icon.

    Authentic Experiences

    Practice your skills working with athletic teams and in cardiac rehabilitation, clinical exercise physiology and more.

  • Paper with checklist icon.

    Designed by You

    Choose your courses based on interests in areas of sports performance, applied physiology and neuro-rehabilitation.

  • Barbell weights icon.

    Make an Impact

    Study exercise physiology and sport science for the well-being of individuals and communities.

What You’ll Study

Coursework in exercise physiology, biostatistics and research design provide a solid foundation for a variety of career opportunities. The department's research labs further enhance training within the areas of specialization.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Examine Evidence

    Gathering and analyzing information for decision-making or problem-solving purposes

    Research

    Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems

    Teamwork

    Working collaboratively with others to achieve a shared goal or objective

  • Interpersonal Skills

    Communicating and interacting effectively in a variety of social and professional situations

    Listening Skills

    Understanding what others are saying to facilitate effective communication

    Scientific Writing

    Communicating scientific research and findings in a clear, accurate and compelling manner

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Learn how alumni use degrees with outcome data from Gamecock GradStats, a service of the University of South Carolina Career Center.

Potential Careers

  • Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Personal Trainer
  • Exercise Physiologist
  • Health and Wellness Coach
  • Performance Nutrition Coach
  • Rehabilitation Specialist

Job Titles of Alumni

  • Exercise Physiologist
  • Research Assistant
  • Project Coordinator
  • Health Educator
  • Activity and Wellness Director
  • Clinical Fitness Specialist

Average Alumni Salary

Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $65,743

Workplace Settings

  • Athletic Teams
  • Sport Science
  • Cardiac Rehabilitation
  • Corporate Fitness
  • Health and Wellness
  • Research

Employers of Alumni

  • Greenville Health System
  • PRISMA Health
  • Lexington Medical Center
  • MUSC Health
  • University of South Carolina

I totally encourage anybody to apply to any of the programs offered by the Arnold School of Public Health. Take advantage of the many opportunities available to be involved in research and work with well-known faculty members.

Nestor Urrea
Portrait of Nestor Urrea

Is USC Right For You?

There are many reasons we could be your ideal university. There's the award-winning academics, the globally modeled student life, and abundance of study abroad and experiential learning options. Take a closer look at what USC could mean for you.

Degree content is provided for informational purposes only. The Academic Bulletin is the source of record for all degree information.
©