23
GRADUATE PROGRAMS, DEPARTMENTS AND COURSES Applied Exercise Science Chairperson: Suzanne Kitts, Ph.D.
MISSION STATEMENT Our mission in the Department of Applied Exercise Science is to instill in our students the knowledge, skills and abilities that make them leaders in the promotion of safe, active and healthy lifestyle behaviors. Through professional preparation of both undergraduate and graduate students in exercise, sport and associated fields, our exceptional faculty strive for distinction in our respective fields at the local, regional, and national level. We pursue this goal through active engagement in novel and applied research activities that involve both undergraduate and graduate students, through assisting students in making connections between theoretical concepts and real-life applications, through fostering a positive, engaging, and interactive learning environment, through the active promotion of advanced-level educational opportunities and through active participation in local and regional community health initiatives. It is with these initiatives in mind that we design our curriculum, advise our student body and guide our departmental activities.
Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Science Concentration: Human Performance and Clinical Physiology Program Director: Kory Stauffer, Ph.D.
INTRODUCTION Students in our Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Science program receive advanced training in human performance consisting of knowledge, skills and abilities in biochemistry, nutrition, psychology, physiology, and sport and clinical exercise physiology. Additionally, students have the opportunity to choose either a thesis or a non-thesis option. In the thesis option, students complete 30 credits of coursework as well as 6 credits of research-based scientific study that will prepare them for mid-level employment in the field and/or entrance into doctoral programs should they choose to continue their education beyond the master level. In the non-thesis
option, students complete 30 credits of coursework followed by 6 credits of an academic-year-long internship, many with one of the University’s athletic teams or Semi-Professional sports teams in Erie, as well as local hospitals and rehabilitation facilities to provide students with a variety of clinical experiences with a concentration in Human Performance. This M.S. degree is a 36 credit-hour program that is designed to be completed in one calendar year. Students can expect to receive advanced education in many facets of human performance including the physiological, biomechanical, nutritional and psychological factors that both enhance and limit our movement capabilities. The program offers two degree options: a thesis option, and a non-thesis, year-long internship option. Classes are offered in the morning in the summer, and in the afternoon and evening during the fall and spring semesters to accommodate working students. A part-time option is available for students who are unable to devote the time necessary to attend on a full-time basis. The program is designed to prepare students for gainful employment and/or further graduate training.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES The curriculum for the Master of Science degree is designed around providing the student with an advanced, well-balanced, and applied educational experience. Upon graduating with a Master’s of Science degree in Sport and Exercise Science with a concentration in Human Performance from Gannon University, the student will • Students will demonstrate advanced knowledge of the neurophysiology of human performance and clinical populations. • Students will demonstrate advanced knowledge of the physiology of human function and performance. • Students will demonstrate advanced knowledge of the psychology of human performance. • Students will apply and demonstrate advanced knowledge of the relationship between nutrition and human performance. • Students will utilize and demonstrate advanced knowledge on testing the physical capabilities of the body and prescribing activity to improve those parameters. • Students will demonstrate leadership and expertise in the field of advanced human performance.
ACCREDITATION The Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Science is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) and CAAHEP’s Board of Directors.
