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This question is about exercise physiologist education.
What degree do you need to be an exercise physiologist?
You need a bachelor's degree in exercise psychology to be an exercise psychologist. While it is not required for most positions, you can pursue a master's degree in exercise physiology, which may help you expand your career options within the field.
Exercise physiologists need at least a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology or a related field to enter practice. Appropriate degree programs for exercise physiologists include science and health-related courses, such as nutrition, biology, anatomy, kinesiology, nutrition, and clinical work.
An aspiring exercise physiologist should take coursework in biology, anatomy, kinesiology, and nutrition, as well as more advanced coursework including echocardiogram interpretation, biomechanics, cardiac rehabilitation, and psychophysiology, among others.
Some certification programs require those with any major other than exercise physiology to complete specific coursework before being eligible to sit for the certification exam. The American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) for example, requires candidates to complete seven out of these nine specific courses, earning a grade of C or above, before sitting for the Exercise Physiologist Certified (EPC) exam:
Biomechanics
Environmental physiology
Exercise and special populations
Exercise metabolism
Exercise physiology
Fitness assessment and prescription
Kinesiology
Nutrition
Research design
It is also required for candidates to have hands-on laboratory experiences in exercise physiology (or related) laboratories and hold a current ASEP membership. You can earn these hours through different programs offered by The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and include:
Exercise Physiologist Certified (EPC)
Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C)
Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP)
Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (RCEP)--You must have at least a master's degree to earn this certification.
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