Graduate Programs
Master of Science
The Master of Science (MS) degree in Exercise Science offers tracks in three areas of emphasis: Applied Physiology, Health Aspects of Physical Activity, and Motor Control and Rehabilitation. The MS degree is designed to provide for in-depth, scientific, and research-based study in exercise science. Students can elect to do either a thesis or a project. The thesis program emphasizes expansion of research competence and is a 39 credit hour program. The project focuses on professional/clinical aspects of a sub-discipline and requires 42 credit hours of study. The specific program of study is designated by the advisory committee (thesis program) or advisor (project program) and must conform to requirements described in the Handbook for Graduate Students in Exercise Science
Doctoral
The Doctoral (PhD) degree in Exercise Science also offers specializations in three areas: Applied Physiology, Health Aspects of Physical Activity, and Motor Control and Rehabilitation. The PhD degree is designed to prepare students for research careers in the exercise sciences. Graduates are trained for entry into positions in universities, colleges, research institutes, research-oriented governmental settings, and research-oriented clinical settings. Specific areas of research emphasis correspond to those listed for the departmental faculty. Students ordinarily complete an approved program of up to 30 hours beyond the master's level including dissertation hours. Programs of study are developed by the student's advisory committee and must conform to requirements described in the Handbook for Graduate Students in Exercise Science.
Doctorate in Physical Therapy
The Physical Therapy Program at the University of South Carolina offers a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. The program is administratively housed in the Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health. We were one of the first programs in the country to offer a DPT and pride ourselves on our small class size and the quality of our students. The small size of our enrollment allows students to have a number of opportunities that other programs just can not offer. Our students receive individualized instruction, are provided the opportunity to develop their teaching skills, and complete an individually directed research project. Students who complete the DPT program at the University of South Carolina have the option of applying, and if accepted, enroll in an accelerated PhD degree in one of three areas including Motor Rehabilitation, Applied Physiology, or Health Aspects of Physical Activity. For more information about the DPT degree, please visit the program's web site at www.sph.sc.edu/dpt/.
Master of Public Health in Physical Activity
The Master of Public Health in Physical Activity and Public Health (MPH-PHPA) degree offers specializations in two areas: Programmatic and Surveillance. This degree is designed to prepare health health professionals who have a career interest in physical activity. Graduates are trained for entry into positions in health department settings, federal agencies, prevention research centers, professional, commercial, and nonprofit organization.