Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology Online

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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.

Exercise Physiology student riding a bike while having their vitals monitored
Why GCU

Benefits to GCU's MS 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.1
Dr. Zachary Zeigler
Exercise science professor in the College of Natural Sciences
Coursework

Exercise Physiology Courses and Topics

This exercise physiology program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers key topics in science and health-related courses, such as anatomy, kinesiology, exercise science, nutrition and wellness. You will be taught how physical activity and nutrition affect health, while also investigating the mental, emotional and physical factors contributing to overall health and recovery.

As an MS in Exercise Physiology online student, you will engage with advanced coursework in kinesiology, human performance and health science, including being taught how to:

  • Develop evidence-based exercise prescriptions to improve health outcomes
  • Understand cardiovascular and pulmonary systems
  • Conduct health risk assessments, focusing on diverse populations and ACSM guidelines
  • Apply theories, strategies and techniques to promote healthy behavioral changes
  • Develop research proposals

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: 2

Hospitals

Rehabilitation centers

Fitness facilities 

Research institutions

10%

Estimated job growth for exercise physiologists from 2023 to 20333

$54,860

Median annual wage for exercise physiologists as of May 20234 

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.

Female physiologist working with older female patient in clinic

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
  1. Sweeten-Shults, L. (2024, July 23). Exercise Science, Biology Professors Flex Roles as Academic Fellows. GCU News. Retrieved March 11, 2025.
  2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). Exercise Physiologists: Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved March 19, 2025.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

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