Clinical Exercise Physiology
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Admissions Contact
Rachel Ahlmeyer Are you an International Student? |
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Program Contact
Samuel A. E. Headley, PhD |
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Curriculum and Delivery
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Start Dates and Duration
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Interested in the PhD Program?
Learn more about our PhD in Exercise Physiology |
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Upcoming Events
Tips and Pointers for Applying to Graduate School |
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Optimize Human Performance.
In the MS in Clinical Exercise Physiology at Springfield College, students complete a variety of physiology courses aimed at preparing them to be entry-level clinical exercise physiologists. They also take courses in the research sequence, which prepare them to critically analyze the current literature and get the experience of designing research studies in their area of interest. Upon successful completion of the major, they can seek employment as practitioners in the field of clinical exercise physiology, pursue careers in clinically focused research, or continue their education in a related allied health field or relevant doctorate.
Students who complete the Clinical Exercise Physiology program will have the option of completing either a thesis or independent study, and will be encouraged to take the American College of Sports Medicine Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP®) certification. This is the most widely recognized clinical certification of exercise physiologists within the United States.
What job can I get with a degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology?
At Springfield College, our Clinical Exercise Physiology program isn't just about exercise—it's about precision human performance engineering.
Data is from the 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Exercise physiologists work to improve people’s overall health. Many of their clients have chronic medical conditions, such as pulmonary (lung) disease. Exercise physiologists provide health education and exercise plans to help clients improve their respiratory, circulatory, and other systems.
Some physiologists work closely with primary care physicians, who may prescribe exercise regimens for their patients and refer them to exercise physiologists. The physiologists then work with these patients to develop individualized treatment plans that will help the patients meet their health and fitness goals.
Clinical exercise physiologists work with a range of client populations in a variety of settings. For example, they may design exercise programs or promote wellness strategies in schools, taking into account the students’ ages, development, and other factors.
Accreditation
The Clinical Exercise Physiology track of the Exercise Physiology program is the only program in Massachusetts accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), as well as being one of only fourteen CAAHEP-accredited programs in the United States.
Beginning in August 2027, all ACSM-EP and ACSM-CEP candidates must have a bachelor's degree (or higher) in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology from a regionally accredited college or university that is also programmatically accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
How to Apply
Admissions Requirements
- Complete the online application: Once your application form is processed you will receive an email with your application portal login credentials and instructions for submitting supplemental materials as listed below.
- Essay: In two to three double-spaced pages, please describe significant life experiences that have contributed to your interest in your field, your understanding of this field, your occupational objectives, and why you have chosen Springfield College.
- Resume: Please include any college activities, out-of-school leadership experiences, work history, and community involvement to support your interest in or qualifications for graduate study.
- Two letters of recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from a faculty member or direct supervisor: Recommenders will receive an email when you submit your application and will be able to upload your letter to your application.
- Transcripts: An official transcript from each college/university you have attended is required. In order to be considered official, transcripts must be received directly from the original source, by email to graduate@springfield.edu or mailed to the college address:
Springfield College
Office of Graduate Admissions
263 Alden Street
Springfield, MA 01109
International Applicants
- $100 non-refundable International Application fee
In addition to the above admissions requirements, all international applicants from non-English-speaking countries are required to submit:
- Proof of English language proficiency by way of the TOEFL or IELTS: Other tests may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Please refer to our language requirements for more information on acceptable tests, minimum scores, exemptions, and conditional acceptance. If your undergraduate degree was earned in the United States and you successfully completed college-level English, we will consider English language proficiency met.
- Please note: Transcripts must be in English. If the transcript is not in English you will be required to submit a professional credential evaluation completed by any member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). For this we recommend SpanTran, with its customized portal for Springfield College applicants. World Education Services or Josef Silny & Associates, Inc. are also recommended for your credential evaluations.
The Office of International Admissions can assist you with questions you may have about enrolling at Springfield College as an international student by emailing intladmissions@springfieldcollege.edu.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students:
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis as space is available.
International Students:
- Application and Supporting Materials Deadline: May 1
