Prepare for American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) certification.

As the insurance and health care industries drive the need for master’s-trained, certified exercise physiologists, our degree program will prepare you for the ACSM-CEP certification—whether you are starting your career or making a career change.

Complete the didactic coursework in as few as 12 months or three semesters and conclude with a 600-hour internship in a cardiac or rehabilitation exercise program for special populations. Courses are delivered via seven-week online classes and three residency weekends.

With coursework and an internship under your belt, you’ll have the experience you need for employment in the fields of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation or exercise for individuals with complex medical conditions. 

The focus of this track reflects the growing trend of requiring advanced study (master of science degree or above) in exercise science to work with patient populations in fitness, wellness, and rehabilitation programs.

Learn in labs and facilities that rival those at research institutions and medical centers.

The master of science in clinical exercise physiology program is housed in the College’s acclaimed Jeanne and Edward H. Arnold Health Professions Pavilion. These state-of-the-art facilities include the Lewis Human Performance and Exercise Physiology laboratories. During the three residency weekends that are required as part of the program, you will spend time in the Exercise Physiology lab integrating your learning in a hands-on environment. In the lab, you will run stress tests, view ECGs, and learn to identify normal versus abnormal heart rhythms. This intense weekend practice will provide you with the experience you need to succeed in your internship.

Career Opportunities

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for exercise physiologists are expected to grow at an above-average rate through at least 2028. Your faculty, along with career coaches in LVC’s Edward and Lynn Breen Center for Graduate Success, will guide you throughout your internship and career journey.

Graduate Assistantship

The Clinical Exercise Physiology Master’s program offers a unique in-person Graduate Assistant (GA) position. The GA supports LVC's undergraduate Exercise Science program. Applicants must hold an undergraduate/graduate degree with a minimum 3.0 CGPA in exercise science or related field and be fully accepted in the M.S. in Clinical Exercise Physiology program. Selection preference will be given to individuals holding ACSM EP or equivalent certifications. 

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Graduate Assistant Lab Instructor

LVC offers an in-person Graduate Assistant Lab Instructor (GA Lab Instructor) position for newly accepted post-baccalaureate students. The GA Lab Instructor provides instruction and lab room responsibilities for an undergraduate exercise science course on LVC’s campus.

Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in exercise science or related field and be fully accepted in the eligible graduate program. 

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