Exercise Science (M.S.E.) Curriculum & Admission Requirements
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
Coursework
Project/Thesis
Comprehensive examination
Program Curriculum
The master’s degree requires a minimum of 31 credit hours for a thesis option or 37 credit hours for a non-thesis option. Regardless of which program track, students are able to select coursework in consultation with a faculty advisor to enhance the learning and fit the professional interests and educational needs.
- EPSY 710/711: Basic Stats
- EPSY 715: Understanding Research in Education
- HSES 805: Lab Experiments & Analysis
- HSES 810: Advanced Exercise Physiology
- HSES 825: Skeletal Muscle Physiology
- HSES 872: Exercise & the Cardiovascular System
Additional Requirements for Thesis Track
- HSES 910: Biochemistry of Exercise
- HSES 995: Field Experience in Exercise Science
- HSES 899: Master's Thesis
Additional Requirements for Non-Thesis Track (Plus Electives)
- HSES 730: Advanced Concepts in Nutrition
- HSES 771: Internship in Exercise Science
Nonthesis students can choose from a variety of electives that match their interests and career goals. These may include Sport Psychology, Biomechanics in Sports, Biochemistry of Exercise, Ethics in the Sport Industry, Legal Aspects of Sport, Advanced Biomechanics and Data Programming, and Organizational Behavior in Sport.
Application Deadlines
Application Checklist
M.S.E. in Exercise Science
Applicants are required to submit the following materials and meet the following requirements before the application deadline
List
Online application
Complete through the KU Office of Graduate Admissions
Transcripts
One official copy of academic transcripts from each college or university attended
English translation of transcripts
Official transcripts from an international university must include an English translation
Resume or CV
Statement of purpose
1-2 page statement outlining how the program relates to one’s career goals
Online letters of recommendation
Names and email addresses of persons to be asked to complete letters of recommendation who can provide a thorough evaluation of one’s abilities at the graduate level
Proof of English proficiency
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency
Financial document (international students only)
Required by U.S. government in order to issue the I-20 or DS-2019
Application fee
$65 for U.S. residents; $85 for international applicants
Prerequisites
Applicants are required to have completed credits from the following KU courses, or transfer credit from equivalent non-KU courses: BIOL 240 (Human Anatomy); BIOL 246 (Principles of Human Physiology); HSES 369 (Kinesiology) OR HSES 470 (Biomechanics); HSES 372 (Exercise Physiology).
Admission & Curriculum Resources
The online application is designed to give applicants the ability to submit all supporting documents in one form. We invite you to explore our graduate degree information, review our student resources, and learn more on our knowledgeable faculty and the vibrant community of Lawrence, Kansas.
Program Faculty

Andrew C Fry

Philip Michael Gallagher

Ashley Ann Herda

Trent J Herda

Quincy Johnson
Yu Song

Jordan M. Taylor

Joseph Weir