Master’s Degree offered in Online format.
*Online format for this program will require some on-campus classes (HS 51000, HS 53500) for degree completion. These courses are currently listed as hybrid, and there will be a minimum of one weekend during the semester when students will need to come to campus for demonstrations and in-person testing of hands-on skills.
Lindenwood University’s Master of Science in Strength and Conditioning prepares students for advanced roles in athletic performance, coaching, and human movement science. Designed for individuals with a background in exercise science or related fields, this program combines scientific theory with applied training to help students optimize performance across a variety of populations.
Students develop expertise in strength training, exercise physiology, performance testing, and recovery strategies while preparing for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
Blended
Online Program with In-Person Lab Requirements
2 YRS
Program Length
33
Credit Hours
$595
Cost per Credit
Essential Skills and Insights
The Strength and Conditioning MS program provides advanced training in performance science, preparing students to work with athletes and active populations.
- Performance Optimization: Learn how to design and implement training programs that improve strength, speed, and overall performance
- Exercise Physiology & Biomechanics: Understand how the body responds and adapts to training and physical stress
- Data & Performance Analysis: Use testing, technology, and analytics to assess and improve outcomes
- Nutrition & Recovery: Explore strategies for fueling performance and managing recovery and injury
- Coaching & Leadership: Develop the communication and leadership skills needed to work with individuals and teams
Coursework is aligned with CSCS content domains, helping students build a strong foundation for professional certification.
Blended Learning Experience
What to Expect from the Program Format
This program is designed as a blended learning experience to provide both flexibility and hands-on training. The online format for this program will require some on-campus classes (HS 51000, HS 53500) for degree completion. These courses are currently listed as hybrid, and there will be a minimum of one weekend during the semester when students will need to come to campus for demonstrations and in-person testing of hands-on skills. These sessions focus on:
- Laboratory-based instruction
- Hands-on application of training techniques
- Performance testing and assessment
- Practical skill development
These in-person experiences are essential to building the applied skills needed in strength and conditioning careers and take place at Lindenwood’s Exercise and Performance Nutrition Laboratory (EPNL).
Experiential Learning and Research
The Exercise and Performance Nutrition Laboratory (EPNL) serves as a central hub for hands-on learning, research, and performance testing within the program.
Students gain experience using advanced tools and techniques to assess:
- Body composition
- Musculoskeletal fitness
- Cardiorespiratory function
- Performance outcomes
The EPNL supports both graduate research and applied learning, allowing students to connect scientific concepts to real-world performance settings. Faculty involved in the lab are active in professional organizations and research initiatives, giving students exposure to current trends and practices in the field.
Career Outlook
A master’s degree in strength and conditioning prepares graduates for careers focused on performance, health, and human movement. With growing demand for performance-focused professionals across athletics, wellness, and tactical environments, graduates are well-positioned for a variety of roles.
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Median Salary: $45,920
Work with athletes and teams to improve strength, speed, and performance through structured training programs.
Sports Scientist
Median Salary: $90,961
Analyze performance data and apply scientific principles to enhance athletic outcomes and training strategies.
Personal Trainer
Median Salary: $61,000
Support recovery and injury prevention through exercise-based programming and performance monitoring.
Salary figures reflect U.S. national medians from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024)
Admissions Requirements
For admission to the Master of Science in Strength and Conditioning program, students must complete an application and submit official transcripts. Additional requirements may apply based on academic background and university graduate admissions policies.
This program is designed for students with a background in exercise science or a related field.
- Complete the Graduate Admissions Online Application by visiting apply.lindenwood.edu
- Request official transcripts from your undergraduate institution(s) showing a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
Only transcripts with the final degree posted are required if you attended multiple institutions.
Curriculum Overview
The Strength and Conditioning MS program provides advanced coursework in performance training, physiology, research, and applied science. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to support athletic and performance outcomes.
Major Coursework – 27 Credit Hours
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HS 51000 | Advanced Strength Training | 3 |
| HS 51200 | Nutrition Strategies for Performance, Recovery, and Injury Management | 3 |
| HS 52000 | Technology in Fitness and Wellness | 3 |
| HS 52500 | Performance Psychology | 3 |
| HS 53500 | Advanced Exercise Testing and Prescription | 3 |
| HS 54000 | Research Methods | 3 |
| HS 54200 | Statistical Analysis | 3 |
| HS 57200 | Exercise Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Biomarkers | 3 |
| HS 57600 | Cardiorespiratory and Neuromuscular Exercise Physiology | 3 |
Elective Coursework
Students may select from courses such as:
- CSCS Exam Preparation
- Nutrition Education and Counseling
- Optimizing Human Performance
- Building Personal Resiliency
- Contemporary Trends in Wellness
Culminating Experience – 6 Credit Hours
Students choose between:
Thesis Option
Students complete a research-based thesis project through HS 65001.
Non-Thesis Option
Students gain experience through internship and complete a comprehensive examination in HS 54100 and HS 58100 respectively. Only students in the Non-Thesis Option are required to complete HS 58100.
Program Length Details
Lindenwood University’s online programs offer you choice and flexibility to support your education journey. Time to complete a master’s degree can vary based on course load, transfer credits, and individual pacing. You will tailor a course schedule that keeps you in the driver’s seat.
- Transfer Credit: LU allows 9 transfer credits toward a master’s degree and you can complete your degree in as few as 24 credits.
- Frequent Start Dates: LU offers multiple start dates throughout the year so you can begin your studies when you are ready allowing you to graduate sooner.
- Personalized Degree Plan: LU academic advisors will work with you to tailor your degree plan to support your education goals while balancing your personal and professional responsibilities.
Transfer Credits
Lindenwood University’s accelerated online programs offer a generous transfer policy of up to nine credits toward your MBA degree completion to further offset tuition costs. This means you can complete your degree in as few as 24 credit hours—saving you time and money on your education!
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While most coursework is completed online, students are required to attend scheduled on-ground sessions for hands-on laboratory and applied learning experiences.
The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) is a widely recognized credential for professionals working in strength and conditioning. This program aligns with CSCS content areas to help students prepare for the exam.
The thesis option focuses on research, while the non-thesis option includes an internship and comprehensive exam for applied experience.
Graduates can pursue roles in strength and conditioning, sports performance, rehabilitation, and related fields.
Related Programs
We’re Accredited
Lindenwood University’s current accreditation status can be viewed at the Higher Learning Commission.
Lindenwood University’s HLC accreditation is exclusive to Lindenwood University and does not extend to other institutions(s) of higher education within the Lindenwood Education System.
The Higher Learning Commission
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Fax: (312) 263-7462
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