Lebanon Valley College Adds Three Exercise Science Master’s Degrees that Will Unlock the Science of Human Performance

Three new master’s degrees in exercise science at Lebanon Valley College will prepare graduate students to conduct biomechanical research, prepare for ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP) certification, or pursue advanced training in strength and conditioning for lifelong success in the health professions. The programs build on the strengths of the College’s nationally recognized health profession and science majors.

Students can elect to pursue a master’s degree in one of three areas: human performance, clinical exercise physiology, or sport performance. The first courses launch in fall 2020.

Dr. Claudia Gazsi, chair of exercise science and associate professor of physical therapy, worked with colleagues to develop a curriculum to meet the growing need for healthcare professionals in the exercise science field.

“Our exercise science faculty are excited to launch these programs, which were built on the success and expertise of LVC’s other nationally recognized programs in the health professions,” noted Gazsi. “Exercise science master students also will learn in the College’s state-of-the-art research and teaching facility, the Jeanne and Edward H. Arnold Health Professions Pavilion.”

Here is a closer look at each new program:

Master of Science in Exercise Science—Human Performance

Designed for graduate students who want to pursue careers in industry or research, students will study in our state-of-the-art Lewis Human Performance Lab that rivals those found in larger academic research institutions, research labs in academic medical centers, and industrial manufacturing and research facilities. Students will learn how to run biomechanical equipment to support the needs of medical staff, academic researchers, or research scientists in the sports industry. 

Master of Science in Exercise Science—Clinical Exercise Physiology

This program will teach students how to provide fitness rehabilitation for patients with complex medical conditions and prepare them to work in cardio-pulmonary rehab centers or in a medically-adapted gym to treat a diverse range of patients and clients. Coursework and a 600-hour internship will provide the preparation to sit for the CEP exam and help fill the growing need for certified exercise physiologists.

Master of Science in Exercise Science—Sport Performance

Gain the experience necessary to train semi-pro and professional athletes, first responders, or fitness professionals, or to work with college athletic teams. High school coaches and health teachers can also pursue this program as a professional learning opportunity to grow their instructional and teaching tools.

LVC designed these master’s programs to be fast-paced with coursework completion in just one year for students who wish to pursue their degree full time. There is also an option for students who work full time to take courses at their own pace and use their current work experience to complete the internship requirement. Exciting local placement opportunities include Lancaster and Lebanon YMCAs, Penn State Health: Better Together and Cardiac Rehab programs, WellSpan Health: Cardiac Rehab and Community Wellness programs, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, and Power Train Sports.

A hybrid program, online courses run seven weeks and lab courses are held on weekends in our Lewis Human Performance Lab. With small cohorts, students will receive one-on-one attention and work closely with graduate faculty who have conducted research at Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, WellSpan, and other renowned organizations.