Program Basics

With concentrations in exercise physiology, sport psychology, and human performance, as well as a number of individualized study options, Ithaca College’s master’s degree program in exercise and sport sciences prepares motivated students for a variety of exciting careers in the field and for further study. 

In addition, about 75 percent of full-time matriculated graduate students in exercise and sport sciences hold graduate assistantships. These positions are awarded to students with exceptional academic promise and provide not only tuition assistance, but also a taxable salary. For more information on assistantship opportunities, visit our Graduate Assistantships page.

Thesis versus Non-Thesis

The program offers thesis and non-thesis options for a wide range of student interests and goals. Students more interested in theory and research find the thesis plan an excellent way to either build on previous work or begin new research on various topics. However, other students find the non-thesis option more appropriate—oftentimes using an internship experience as a capstone to their study. And some students choose to do it all, completing all prescribed courses, a thesis, and an applied internship.

The Concentrations and Curriculum

For comprehensive information about specific concentrations within the program, as well as the admissions process, please refer to the Graduate Catalog and see the links to the left.

Admissions Deadlines

NOTE: WE DO NOT ACCEPT APPLICATIONS FOR THE SPRING SEMESTER UNLESS YOU ARE A GRADUATE TRANSFER STUDENT OR AN ITHACA COLLEGE STUDENT. ALL APPLICATIONS ARE FOR THE FALL SEMESTER.

February 15
Priority deadline for all applications for admittance and assistantships. Applications received after this time will be considered only after the earlier applications.

March 1
All candidates meeting the February 15 deadline will be notified of acceptance, rejection, or waiting list status. Applications for admittance received prior to February 15 are generally processed within 2 weeks.

Mid March/Early April
Assistantship award letters will be sent out. 

April 15
All candidates who wish to enter an academic year graduate program must accept admission and pay their deposit.

Questions and Visits

We encourage all prospective students to come to campus and meet with us. If you would like to set up a time to visit, please write, email, or phone Jeff Ives.

Jeff Ives, Ph.D.
Dept. Exercise & Sport Sciences
322 Center for Health Sciences
Ithaca College
Ithaca, NY 14850 USA

Grad Office Phone: 607-274-3189