Columbia University Campus
Master of Science
On Campus
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Columbia University
New York
United States

Nutrition and Exercise Physiology

About

The Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology provides an in depth study of human nutrition, exercise science, and the physiological mechanisms underlying health and performance. Students explore metabolism, sports nutrition, exercise physiology, and behavioral health while developing skills to assess, design, and implement nutrition and exercise programs for individuals and populations. The program combines theoretical foundations with applied research, helping learners develop analytical expertise in evaluating nutritional interventions, optimizing physical performance, and promoting health outcomes. Through coursework, laboratory exercises, and applied projects, students gain insight into how nutrition and exercise strategies can improve wellness, prevent disease, and enhance athletic performance.

The program also emphasizes research methodology, clinical application, and professional practice. Faculty mentorship, applied projects, and hands on experiences allow students to build practical competence in designing exercise protocols, analyzing metabolic data, and applying nutrition science in clinical and community settings. Graduates are prepared to work in healthcare facilities, fitness centers, research institutions, and public health organizations, applying their expertise to improve health outcomes, guide lifestyle interventions, and inform evidence based nutrition policies. The curriculum ensures that students leave with both conceptual understanding and applied skills essential for careers in nutrition science, exercise physiology, and health promotion.

Key information

Duration
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Tuition fee
$60,733.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
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More details
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Key Facts

  • Program Title: Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
  • Degree Type: Master of Science
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
  • Application Deadline: 01 April 2026
  • Location: Columbia University, United States
  • Field of Study: Nutrition & Dietetics
  • Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Semester 1 Foundations in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology

• Introduction to Human Nutrition
• Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics
• Metabolism and Energy Systems
• Research Methods in Health Sciences

Semester 2 Applied Nutrition and Exercise Science

• Sports Nutrition and Performance
• Clinical Exercise Testing
• Behavioral Health and Lifestyle Interventions
• Laboratory Techniques in Nutrition Science

Semester 3 Advanced Analysis and Projects

• Metabolic Assessment and Data Interpretation
• Program Design for Clinical Populations
• Applied Research Project in Nutrition and Exercise
• Seminar in Health Optimization

Semester 4 Thesis and Professional Application

• Independent Research / Thesis
• Advanced Exercise and Nutrition Interventions
• Data Analysis and Interpretation
• Professional Portfolio Development

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in healthcare facilities, fitness centers, research institutions, and public health organizations, where expertise in nutrition and exercise physiology is essential. Alumni may work as clinical nutritionists, exercise physiologists, wellness consultants, sports dietitians, or research specialists, applying analytical and applied skills to design interventions, improve health outcomes, and optimize athletic performance. The combination of applied research, clinical training, and exercise science knowledge equips graduates to address challenges in health promotion, disease prevention, and performance optimization. Some graduates pursue doctoral studies in nutrition, exercise science, or physiology. Graduates leave ready to apply scientific and practical skills in professional health settings.

Why Choose This Program

Students choose this degree for its combination of applied research and professional training, offering a curriculum that integrates nutrition science, exercise physiology, and behavioral health. The program emphasizes laboratory exercises, applied projects, and seminar discussions, allowing learners to develop skills in assessing health status, designing personalized interventions, and implementing evidence based nutrition and exercise programs. Faculty mentorship, applied exercises, and project work support students in translating theoretical knowledge into professional practice. For individuals seeking a graduate program that prepares them for impactful careers in health promotion, clinical nutrition, and exercise physiology, this degree provides a focused and highly relevant pathway.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States