Program Overview
There’s never been a better time for health professionals in today’s world, and we know you want to set yourself apart. Approach health holistically by studying in a program that combines the interrelated fields of exercise science and nutrition.
Gain expertise on how the body moves, functions and is fueled. Explore how to improve quality of life and performance for a variety of populations. Learn from our passionate and experienced faculty, surrounded by our state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
Go on from here to have a lasting impact through a degree that is uniquely designed to accommodate your interests and abilities. Let us empower you— so you can empower your community.
Admissions Requirements
- Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in either Exercise Science or Nutrition
- Or 6-8 hours in biology; 6-8 hours in anatomy and physiology; 6-8 hours in chemistry; one nutrition course; one exercise physiology course (recommended but not required).
- Official transcripts
- 2.75 cumulative grade point average on all undergraduate work (higher science GPA is desirable)
- Three letters of recommendation: one academic, one professional and one personal
- Two essays (no more than 500 words each) from the following four topics: Statement of Faith, Personal philosophy on exercise/nutrition, Career aspirations, Your purpose and passion
- Interview (phone, Skype, in person) for finalists
Transcripts and forms should be mailed to:
Graduate Studies in EXNS
Lipscomb University
One University Park Drive
Nashville TN 37204-3951
Courses
The following core courses are required for this degree (15 hours):
- EXNS 5003 - Advanced Exercise Physiology I
- EXNS 5013 - Exercise and Nutrition Strategies
- EXNS 5063 - Research Methods I: Biostatistics
- EXNS 5103 - Research Methods II: Design & Analysis
- EXNS 5203 - Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry I
The following elective courses are chosen based on interest and professional goals (15 hours):
- EXNS 5043 - Advanced Exercise and Sports Nutrition
- EXNS 5053 - Electrocardiography
- EXNS 5073 - Dietary and Nutritional Supplementation
- EXNS 5123 - Advanced Exercise Physiology II: Adaptations to Exercise
- EXNS 5133 - Advanced Exercise Physiology III: Laboratory Techniques
- EXNS 5143 - Exercise Psychology
- EXNS 5233 - Current Trends II: Obesity
- EXNS 5243 - The Business of Exercise & Nutrition
- EXNS 5253 - Nutrition Across the Life Span
- EXNS 5263 - Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry II: Micronutrients
- EXNS 5273 - Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry IIII: Macronutrients
- EXNS 5403 - Special Topics in Exercise & Nutrition Science
- EXNS 541V - Independent Study
- EXNS 5443 - Advanced Strength & Conditioning Methods
- EXNS 5453 - Exercise Evaluation & Prescription for Special Populations
- EXNS 5463 - Advanced Medical Nutritional Therapy
- EXNS 5473 - Current Trends I: Eating Disorders
As a capstone project, students choose either Portfolio or Thesis and complete the Comprehensive Exam (6 hours):
- EXNS 5900 - Comprehensive Exam
- EXNS 5953 - Portfolio I
- EXNS 5963 - Portfolio II
- EXNS 5973 - Thesis I
- EXNS 5983 - Thesis II
Other elective courses outside the EXNS program:
Students who have not previously transferred credit from the dietetic internship or another graduate school may apply up to six hours from the Lipscomb Graduate business and/or psychology programs toward the EXNS degree. (Note: Graduate business and/or psychology program tuition applies to students who take these courses.) Courses could include:
- BU 6303 - Health Services Management
- BU 6323 - The U.S. Health Care System
- BU 6803 - Sports Management
- BU 6813 - Marketing, Fundraising and Public Relations in Sports
- BU 6823 - Sports Law and Risk Management
- PSFT 5903 - Introduction to Marriage and Family Therapy Skills
Note:
Graduate business and/or psychology program tuition applies to students who take these courses.
Tuition & Aid
Tuition and fees for the EXNS program are as follows:
36-hour program / $1030 per credit hour*
* Cost per credit hour subject to change
Student to faculty ratio
Our Faculty
Career Paths
Exercise Physiologists
Exercise physiologists develop fitness and exercise programs that help patients recover from chronic diseases and improve cardiovascular function, body composition and flexibility.
Strength and Conditioning
These specialists conduct sport-specific testing sessions, design and implement safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs and provide guidance regarding nutrition and injury prevention based on scientific knowledge.
Wellness and Health Coaching
Wellness and health coaches utilize evidence-based conversation, clinical interventions and strategies to empower clients/patients to make healthy behavioral changes.
Nutritionists
Nutritionists are experts in the use of food and nutrition to promote health and manage disease. They advise people on what to eat in order to lead a healthy lifestyle or achieve a specific health-related goal.
Additional Schooling
When you graduate, you may also pursue one or more career paths that require additional education, such as becoming a physical therapist or physician’s assistant. You may go on to receive a doctorate in your field of choice. Your master’s degree will afford you a number of opportunities to reach even higher.
