Wednesday 30 May 2012

Online Exercise Physiology Degrees by Program Level

Students interested in studying exercise physiology can find related programs on the undergraduate and graduate levels. Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Applied Physiology programs often offer concentrations in exercise physiology, as do Master of Science programs in Kinesiology.

Online Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Applied Physiology Degree Program Overview

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) programs in Kinesiology and Applied Physiology often offer concentrations in exercise physiology. These programs promote concepts in exercise science and physiology to help patients rehabilitate from disease, promote health, and to research how they respond to exercise. In addition to concepts in exercise physiology, these programs also provide a solid foundation in basic sciences with an emphasis on biology. Prospective students can find related programs in kinesiology; however, these programs rarely offer courses online. Applicants must have a high school diploma or have achieved a GED equivalency.

Program Information and Requirements

Bachelor's degree programs in Kinesiology and Applied Physiology are generally 120 semester hours and can be completed in four years. These programs are extremely rare in a completely online format. Those that do offer classes in a distance-learning format still require students to complete an internship. Students often need to take exams at an approved facility under the guidance of a proctor. Online courses often run concurrently with on-campus sections, and students must stay on schedule accordingly.
Students need to have access to a computer with an updated browser, operating system and a high speed Internet connection. Due to the nature of streaming video lectures, the computer must have a media player with functioning speaker system.

List of Common Online Kinesiology and Applied Physiology Bachelor's Degree Courses

Curricula have general education requirements in mathematics, English, natural sciences and the humanities that students complete as part of the degree program.

Applied Human Physiology Course

Students explore mechanical bodily functions on the cellular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, skeletal and nervous system level. Emphasis is placed on the synergistic workings of these separate systems and on a holistic view on human anatomy.

Exercise Physiology Course

This course focuses on the responses of patients to short and long-term exercise. Emphasis is placed on muscle bioenergetics, cardiopulmonary response and metabolism.

Clinical Exercise Physiology Course

Course participants focus on the use of exercise as a prescription for patients within a clinical setting. Current case studies in exercise physiology are analyzed to monitor the benefits of exercise on musculoskeletal, cardiac, pulmonary and metabolic ailments.

Career Information for Graduates

While some graduates of a B.S. in Kinesiology and Applied Physiology degree program pursue careers in health promotion fields, many degree holders pursue a teaching career on the high school level. Teaching certification requirements vary by state. In May of 2009 the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the annual mean wage for this occupation was $55,210 (www.bls.gov). This source also reported in 2008 that the employment growth for this occupation was expected to rise by 13% between 2008 and 2018.

Online Master of Science in Kinesiology Degree Program Overview

Master of Science (M.S.) degree programs in kinesiology are available for students who want to advance their careers in exercise science and physiology. These programs usually offer concentrations in areas that are specific to a student's career goals, which include exercise physiology, physical education teaching, health promotion, kinesiology and health, exercise pedagogy and athletic training. Students must have a bachelor's degree in a related field of study to be eligible for admission.

Program Information and Requirements

The average length of a M.S. in Kinesiology degree program is 36 semester hours, and can be completed in 2 years. Programs can be completed entirely online, and are relatively common. Curricula are commonly structured for working professionals, so students can access class materials and plan their course of study at their discretion. Course material is administered through streaming video, downloadable multimedia, websites and DVD's.

List of Common Master of Science in Kinesiology Online Courses

Prospective students with undergraduate degrees in fields outside kinesiology often need to complete prerequisite courses in biomechanics, anatomy and bodily movement.

Exercise Physiology Course

Students study the short and long-term effects of physical exercise, and the influences on muscles, metabolism and the cardiovascular system from such exercise. Students integrate information from case studies, technology and current practices into their own practice methodology.

Current Issues in Kinesiology Course

Students survey contemporary trends and issues in kinesiology and related fields. Emphasis is placed on research and students then take sides on issues, and defend their decision via papers and presentations.

Exercise Psychology Course

Topics include the psychological theories of physical exercise and their effects on rehabilitation, integration and practice. Emphasis is placed on the effects of exercise on patients suffering from mental illness and other behavioral disorders.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates of an M.S. in Kinesiology program are qualified to work as exercise physiologists. These professionals work in hospitals, sports medicine clinics, rehabilitation centers and physical therapy offices. Their work includes evaluating patients and prescribing exercise regimens to treat illness and promote wellness. Payscale.com reports that the annual salary for this occupation ranges between $30,789 and $45,658.

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