Human Performance and Health Education

Exercise Science, Accelerated Master of Science

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Courses

Overview

Starting in Fall 2026, all graduate courses in this program will be 100% online.

Exercise science undergraduates can accumulate up to 12 credits toward the completion of a master’s degree in exercise science while still enrolled as an undergraduate student!

The Master of Arts in Exercise science is designed to provide the student with an advanced understanding of the physiological and functional adaptations to movement. The program integrates traditional lecture-based courses with hands-on laboratory experiences. One of the major strengths of the program is the combining of the practical application of exercise physiology with current research findings. Students may also individualize their program of study by choosing from a variety of elective courses offered within many departments across the University.

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The Accelerated Master's in Counseling Psychology (AGDP) is for current undergraduate students at Western Michigan University with majors from the department of Psychology. Once accepted, students may take up to 12 credit hours of graduate course work and apply it towards both degrees.

About AGDP

AGDP Checklist

Why apply?

Dual enrollment – Save time and funds by completing up to 12 credit hours that count towards both your undergraduate and graduate degrees (must be an undergraduate in exercise science at WMU).

Hands-On Learning – Students learn through hands-on experience while utilizing top of the line equipment in state of the art lab spaces.

Customization – Students may individualize their program of study by choosing from a variety of elective courses offered within many departments across the University.

High Success – 100% of WMU exercise science students were employed or continuing education within three months of graduation.

Admissions requirements

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Program of Study

Students in the Exercise Science master’s program complete advanced coursework focused on the physiological, biomechanical, and neuromuscular foundations of human movement. The curriculum emphasizes how the body adapts to exercise across metabolic, cardiovascular, environmental, and functional contexts, while integrating hands-on laboratory experiences that develop technical and analytical skills. Students receive training in research design, data analysis, and scientific inquiry, allowing them to critically evaluate and contribute to current research in exercise science. The program culminates in a capstone experience, which may include a thesis, independent research, or a professional field experience, enabling students to align their studies with career or academic goals. This comprehensive preparation supports career pathways in fitness, athletic, and clinical settings, as well as advanced study in exercise physiology, biomechanics, physical therapy, and related health professions.

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Cost & funding

About AGDP

The Master of Science in Exercise Science requires a total of 36 credit hours. An undergraduate degree in the Exercise Science major requires a total of 122 credit hours. Students enrolling in the AGDP for the maximum 12 graduate credits would earn 122 total undergraduate and graduate credits in contrast to the typical combined 134 undergraduate and graduate credit hours under the usual progression to degree(s).

Students will pay undergraduate tuition for the designated AGDP 6000-level courses as undergraduates, and the courses will be included in the flat tuition rate. On completion of the undergraduate degree, the student will be re-classified as a graduate student and then will pay graduate tuition rates.

Students who have received their baccalaureate degrees will be ineligible to apply for this program and retroactively claim credits toward the M.S. degree.