Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology Online

Overview

Advance Your Understanding of Human Exercise Physiology

Are you passionate about health, fitness and wellness? The Master of Science in Exercise Physiology is designed for students like you — those eager to dive deeper into human physiology and make a real impact in the wellness industry.

In this master’s in exercise physiology online program, you’ll explore specialized topics in exercise science, nutrition and therapeutic intervention, gaining a well-rounded understanding of how the body responds to physical activity and diet. You’ll also work toward developing strong communication skills and examine the psychological, spiritual and physical aspects of health, preparing you for a career in wellness, rehabilitation or advanced certifications.

Master of Science in Exercise Physiology

Offered By

College of Natural Sciences

Class Settings

Online

Tuition Rate

Online: $600 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 34

Online: 8 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Master's)

Undergraduate Degree*
2.8+ GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

GMAT: 500
GRE: 300 combined**

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).

Why GCU

Benefits to GCU's MS in Exercise Physiology Online

Enjoy a Culture That Fosters Academic and Personal Growth

GCU’s master's in exercise physiology online program emphasizes collaboration, support and academic growth. Within this community-driven environment, you can engage with peers and faculty while exploring the role of exercise physiologists in helping individuals recover, manage chronic conditions and maintain fitness. The program encourages meaningful connections and professional development, providing opportunities to exchange ideas, gain insights and grow in a supportive learning community.

Earn Your Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology Online

What Our Professors Are Saying

"As a fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), I am passionate about upholding the global health initiative that enables GCU to prescribe exercise and promote physical activity for better health — resulting in an “exercise is medicine” campus for over five years.^{(See disclaimer 1)}"

Dr. Zachary Zeigler

Exercise science professor in the College of Natural Sciences

What Our Professors Are Saying

"As a fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), I am passionate about upholding the global health initiative that enables GCU to prescribe exercise and promote physical activity for better health — resulting in an “exercise is medicine” campus for over five years.^{(See disclaimer 1)}"

Dr. Zachary Zeigler

Exercise science professor in the College of Natural Sciences

"As a fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), I am passionate about upholding the global health initiative that enables GCU to prescribe exercise and promote physical activity for better health — resulting in an “exercise is medicine” campus for over five years.^{(See disclaimer 1)}"

Dr. Zachary Zeigler

Exercise science professor in the College of Natural Sciences

Practicum

Students are required to complete 600 practicum/field experience hours, offering you the chance to apply what you've learned. Practicums offer a valuable opportunity to showcase your growth and help you prepare for the next steps in your career or academic journey.

Careers

Career Opportunities for Master’s in Exercise Physiology Graduates

Whether you're looking to take your career further or prepare for graduate studies, this program can help prepare you to pursue roles in:^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Hospitals

Rehabilitation centers

Fitness facilities

Research institutions

10%

Estimated job growth for exercise physiologists from 2023 to 2033^{(See disclaimer 3)}

$54,860

Median annual wage for exercise physiologists as of May 2023^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Accreditation

Pursue Your Graduate Education From an Accredited University

GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968 and is proud to prioritize quality education and comprehensive instruction. The College of Natural Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore our FAQ section to learn more about GCU’s master’s degree in exercise physiology online, including career and program details, curriculum and learning opportunities.

What is exercise physiology?

What do exercise physiologists do?

Exercise physiologists design and monitor exercise programs to help enhance health, performance and rehabilitation. Working in hospitals, research labs, fitness centers and sports organizations, they often use tools like VO₂ max testing, ECGs and metabolic analysis to assess fitness and health risks. Their expertise can also help others manage chronic diseases, recover from injuries and optimize training with evidence-based interventions.

Is exercise physiology hard?

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

Major34 credits

Degree Requirements34 credits

Core Courses

UNV-507

2 Total Credits

EXS-520

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides students with the knowledge of research methods needed to read and critique published research. The course provides students with the skills necessary to design studies and develop a research proposal. Statistical terminology and calculations are taught in the context of evaluating research. Students are required to use statistical software throughout the course.

EXS-530

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This comprehensive course equips students with advanced knowledge of the pathophysiological mechanisms of common medical conditions encountered in clinical practice. Students will engage with research-based content that serves as a foundation for clinical decision-making. Students will critically evaluate the latest scientific literature to inform exercise prescriptions and interventions that align with best practices. The course aligns with the program's mission to produce adept professionals capable of applying evidence-based strategies to enhance the health and well-being of diverse populations.

EXS-540

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the intricacies of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, with a focus on physiological principles and their practical implications, including 12-lead ECG interpretation. Rooted in evidence-based practice, the course empowers students to apply their expertise in promoting cardiovascular and pulmonary health through exercise interventions.

EXS-610

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is designed to equip students with an in-depth understanding of advanced techniques for exercise testing and health risk assessment. Building upon foundational knowledge, this course prepares students for the role of clinical exercise physiologist, with the ability to assess a diverse population, including those with medical conditions. Through evidence-based practices and the utilization of ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, students will develop the expertise required to select and conduct exercise tests and promote health and well-being.

EXS-620

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is designed to equip students with an in-depth understanding of advanced techniques for exercise prescription. Building upon foundational knowledge, this course prepares students for the role of clinical exercise physiologist, with the ability to tailor exercise interventions to diverse populations, including those with medical conditions. Through evidence-based practices and the utilization of ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, students will develop the expertise required to promote health and well-being through precise exercise strategies.

EXS-690

4 Total Credits

EXS-660

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a pivotal component of the Master of Science program in Exercise Physiology, designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the theories, strategies, and techniques that underpin health behavior change and promotion. This course empowers future clinical exercise physiologists to effectively address the complex interactions between behavior, health, and wellness, enabling them to foster positive lifestyle modifications in diverse populations.

EXS-695

4 Total Credits

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

More Resources

Learning Goals

Financial

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Tuition & Financing

Scholarships & Grants

Information

Admission

Optimize Human Performance

Expand your knowledge of human movement, performance and recovery. Start your master’s degree in exercise physiology online at GCU today!

Apply Now

Sweeten-Shults, L. (2024, July 23). Exercise Science, Biology Professors Flex Roles as Academic Fellows. GCU News. Retrieved March 11, 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). Exercise Physiologists: Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved March 19, 2025.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Exercise Physiologists, retrieved March 5, 2025.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Exercise Physiologists as of May 2023, retrieved March 5, 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as exercise physiologists, nor does it reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.

Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology Online

Advance Your Understanding of Human Exercise Physiology

Benefits to GCU's MS in Exercise Physiology Online

Exercise Physiology Courses and Topics

Practicum

Career Opportunities for Master’s in Exercise Physiology Graduates

Pursue Your Graduate Education From an Accredited University

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Curriculum

Core Courses