DEGREE COMPLETION OPTION: THESIS
Students choosing the thesis option will complete 30 credits of
coursework as well as 6 credits of research-based, faculty
supervised, scientific study that will culminate in the preparation
and defense of the masters thesis, a requirement for graduation.
This option prepares the student not only for mid-level employment
in the field but also entrance into doctoral programs should they
choose to continue their education beyond the masters level.
Students will use the first summer session to review current
research in the field and to develop a research question of their
own. The fall and spring will consist of development, preparation
and defense of the master's thesis. While this is certainly an
aggressive time frame, provisions are in place that will allow
students to extend their graduate program until the thesis project
is completed.
DEGREE COMPLETION OPTION: INTERNSHIP
In the non-thesis option, students will complete 30 credit hours
of coursework as well as 6 credits of an academic-year-long
internship, many with one of the University's athletic teams. Under
the supervision of both members of the faculty as well as the
coaching staff of their respective team, the student intern will
serve in the capacity of strength and conditioning coach on their
respective teams. Students will assist in the design,
implementation, maintenance and assessment of the team's
conditioning activities. Note: It is required that students have at
least attempted, and preferably successfully completed
certification requirements through either the National Strength and
Conditioning Association (Certified Strength and Conditioning
Specialist) or the American College of Sports Medicine (Health and
Fitness Specialist) prior to starting their internship experience.
Both of these certification exams are available in a computer-based
format that allows for immediate results. Both also require a fee
that will be the responsibility of the student upon
registration.