UMass Boston's Exercise and Health Sciences master's program provides students with the unique opportunity to study issues regarding exercise science and physical activity-related health promotion in a diverse urban and multicultural environment. This course of study enhances the career growth potential of our students, whether they choose to apply their knowledge and skills for pursuit of an advanced degree, a research-related career, or a professional position in the health field (e.g., exercise physiologist, worksite wellness director).
A wide range of courses and faculty research areas complement the core focus on applied exercise physiology, advanced health fitness and nutrition assessment, and advanced physical activity and health. Students are encouraged early in the program to choose a faculty mentor with whom they wish to study.
Our master of science program offers advanced study in Applied Exercise Physiology and Physical Activity and Health Promotion. Depending on the option of study chosen, students will fulfill program requirements by completing a research thesis or completing a supervised practicum project. See our traditional MS program fact sheet for more detailed information.
Current and future EHS Undergraduate students, be sure to check out our Accelerated EHS MS program.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge in Exercise Physiology and/or Physical Activity and Health.
- Apply statistical and research skills to identify, synthesize and critically evaluate scientific literature in the field of Exercise Physiology and/or Physical Activity and Health.
- Design and manage physical fitness assessment or exercise prescription and interventions for promoting exercise, physical activity, and health in different populations.
- Translate knowledge acquired in the classroom to actual practice (e.g., research labs, clinical settings).
- Synthesize and disseminate scientific findings through thesis or capstone projects.
- Demonstrate leadership to promote physical activity and improve health in diverse populations.
Program Options
Thesis Option
This option is intended for students who may wish to pursue further academic or scientific study in the field. Prepares the student to develop their skills in conducting scientific research. This option culminates with a final written thesis at the end of the student's 4th semester.
Click here for more information regarding previous thesis topics completed by our students.
Non-Thesis Option
The non-thesis option is focused on acquiring the experiential skills necessary to prepare students for entry into the health field (e.g., exercise physiologist, worksite wellness director, etc.). The practicum provides students with an opportunity to strengthen their scientific knowledge and practical skills in the workplace, and prepare students for future entry into the health field. This option culminates with a practicum in the student's area of interest at the end of the their 4th semester.

