A Bachelor of Science degree in sports physiology focuses on exercise physiology, exercise testing and prescription and research methodology. For example, the degree offered at Plymouth State University requires a year-long research project, which includes a research proposal, recruiting subjects, collecting data and submitting the study to a scholarly journal. Courses include training, physiology of exercise, strength and conditioning, cardiovascular physiology, exercise prescription and biochemistry, human anatomy and physiology, chemistry and statistics, with laboratory components, research and clinical applications. The bachelor's degree prepares students for careers in rehabilitation, research and strength and conditioning coaching and prepares students for graduate studies in exercise science, exercise physiology, kinesiology and physical therapy.
A Master of Science degree, such as the one offered at West Chester University in Pennsylvania, focuses on both exercise and sports physiology. The curriculum includes research preparation, advanced science courses, areas of specialization and research. Courses for the degree cover topics in motor learning, biomechanics, research methods and statistics. Coursework focusing on exercise, muscular and cardiovascular physiology are included.
Completion of the master's degree may or may not include individual research by the student. The non-thesis option at Texas A & M University includes both practicum in kinesiology and directed study. The program concludes with theory of kinesiology research. The thesis option also includes practicum in kinesiology and research under the direction of an adviser. The master's degree prepares students for working in adult fitness or cardiac rehabilitation, joining the National Strength and Training Association, or becoming certified by the American College of Sports Medicine.
A doctoral degree in sport physiology is offered at East Tennessee State University, focusing on sport science research and coaching research. The goal of the doctoral program is to study the role of sports and sports participation on the health of the nation. It also looks at the impact of disability, injury and disease on sports participation. Courses include sport conditioning, sport physiology, research and sport science and performance. Electives include biomechanics, pharmacology, sport psychology, biomedical science and scientific communication and ethics. Additionally, a dissertation is completed as part of degree requirements. Graduates of the doctoral program may find work in coaching clinics, continuing education programs and sports activities from elementary school to the elite level.