Grow professionally and lead with confidence with a Master of Sport and Exercise Science degree from Cumberland University. The M.S.E.S. program prepares students for a wide range of careers in research, sports training, strength & conditioning and health and wellness. 

The Master of Sport and Exercise Program gives students the opportunity to explore the movement sciences and directly apply practical skills. The M.S.E.S. program offers challenging and rewarding experiences with diverse populations that compliments didactic coursework. Students with or without a Bachelor’s degree related to sport and exercise science can pursue advanced studies to prepare for ACSM and NSCA certifications.

In Fall 2012, the Master of Sport & Exercise Pedagogy (MSEP) program was established as a pathway for students to further their education across Physical Education, Sport & Exercise Science, or Sport Management. Graduate candidates were provided a unique learning experience whereby a pedagogical foundation across the disciplines was established and candidates were also presented with the opportunity to specialize in one of the three concentrations.

As each program has grown, the University identified a need to establish stand-alone programs and further affords Master’s candidates the opportunity to specialize and move their careers forward. Thus, in 2017 the Master of Sport & Exercise Science (MSES) was launched. Program faculty believe there are three (3) unique strengths of the MSES program.

True to the historical roots of the program, candidates engage in a multidisciplinary curriculum that provides training and experience in the following:

Applicants from diverse academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply to the MSES program. Applicants with backgrounds in sport and exercise science, along with other disciplines (humanities, sciences, etc.), are welcome to apply given program faculty believe candidates from various academic disciplines provide breadth and depth to the learning experience.

To allow candidates flexibility in applying and entering the program students can apply year-round with start dates every fall, spring and summer. There is further flexibility in programming given students can develop an individualized graduation plan to complete the program in 1 or 2 years; or longer if necessary though 2 years is average for completion. Finally, the MSES program delivers courses through on-ground (evening) and online to balance the learning experience and provides the graduate learner the opportunity to work and gain applied experience while attending class.

As the MSES continues to move forward, program faculty regularly align our course curriculum with the American College of Sport Medicine (ACSM) and National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA)to ensure graduate candidates are receiving up-to-date information and content that aligns with evidence-based practices in the industry.

The mission of the Master of Sport & Exercise Science is to provide students with up to date knowledge, skills, and abilities to pursue careers whereby they demonstrate best-practices, sound ethical decision making, and advocacy skills for helping individuals improve performance and pursue healthy lifestyle behaviors across the lifespan.

If you have any questions or need any help through your next steps, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Program Director, Dr. Jason Grindstaff at (615) 547-1381 or email  jgrindstaff@cumberland.edu. We’re here to help guide you through this process and discuss your future at Cumberland University.

The Admissions Office is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 4:30pm CST. Please contact the Admissions Office at 615-547-1246 locally or 615-547-1211 to speak with our Graduate Enrollment Specialist or email graduateadmissions@cumberland.edu.