The master of science degree in Integrative Human Physiology integrates knowledge from multiple sciences including anatomy, physiology, physics-mechanics, biochemistry-metabolism, exercise physiology, nutrition, and statistics to advance understanding of human function under a variety of stimuli.  Stimuli include human movement, disease, aging, environmental stressors, physical injuries, and ergogenic aids. The program prepares students for further study at the doctoral or professional level, careers in higher education, clinical settings, corporate and community fitness/wellness centers and athletic development programs. Prospective candidates holding a degree in a relevant major, including physiology, exercise physiology, biology, exercise science, biomechanics, chemistry, nutrition, or health sciences, are encouraged to apply. Courses encompassing anatomy, physiology, physics, biomechanics, exercise physiology, kinesiology, biology, chemistry, statistics, and nutrition are strongly recommended at the undergraduate level. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and a scientific writing example, per department requirements, are required.

Admission Requirements:

• Baccalaureate degree in a science-based discipline, such as Physiology, Physiology of Exercise, Exercise Science, Biology, Kinesiology, Health Sciences, Human Physiology, Chemistry, Nutrition.
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA (last 90 credits)
• Three letters of recommendation with at least two letters from professors in science based classes
• A written statement of purpose  (a clear, informative letter about your interest in graduate study, research interests, pertinent work experience, and career goals)
• GRE scores
• Scientific writing example.   Prepare a brief appropriately referenced (maximum of 5 references) review paper (two page maximum, single spaced, 1” margins, 12 pt Times font), on the following topic:

Describe the impact of biological aging (focus on ~ 25 years and older) on aerobic capacity and strength in apparently healthy, physically active individuals. Highlight the significance of these changes for exercise performance or one’s ability to perform everyday tasks of daily living

Academic Preparation:

Students are expected to have satisfactorily completed (B or better) an undergraduate course of study that encompasses most if not all the following: human anatomy, human physiology, physiology of exercise, physics, kinesiology, biomechanics, sport nutrition, biochemistry and statistics.

Required Courses

• IHP 551 - Metabolism and Skeletal Muscle Credits: (5)
• IHP 552 – Cardiopulmonary Physiology Credits: (5)
• IHP 553 - Laboratory Techniques in Stress Physiology Credits: (5)
• IHP 557 - Research Design Credits: (4)
• IHP 560 - Inferential Statistics Credits: (4)
• IHP 564 - Gross Human Anatomy: Cadaver Dissection Credits: (1)*
• IHP 575 – Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Credits: (3)
• IHP 700 - Master's Thesis, Project Study, and/or Examination Credits: (6) (Graduate Research Examples)

Electives (A minimum 11 credits from following courses:)

• IHP 555 - Environmental Stress and Human Performance Credits: (3)
• IHP 556 - Ergogenic Aids and Human Performance Credits: (3)
• IHP 559 - Applied Kinesiology Credits: (3)
• IHP 562 - Clinical Exercise Physiology Credits: (3)
• IHP 595 - Graduate Research Credits: (1-6)
• Other electives by advisement
  • IHP 596 Individual Studies Credits: 1 to 6
  • PSY 561 Human Neuroanatomy Credits: 4
  • PSY 452 Adult Development and aging Credits: 4
  • EMS 443  Myocardial Disease and Arrhythmia Diagnosis  Credits: 3
  • EMS 444 12 Lead Electrocardiograph Credits: 4
  • EMS 455 Introduction to Pathophysiology Credits: 3
  • CHEM 431 Biochemistry Credits: 5

Total Credits: 45

Assistantships:

Graduate Assistantships are available to outstanding graduate candidates. Students assist  with research,  instruct in clinical physiology and exercise science lecture and laboratory classes, with opportunities also available in athletic training.

Graduate Faculty in Integrative Human Physiology

Dr. Tim Burnham, Ph.D., Oregon State University, 2000
Exercise and education programs for cancer survivors, Clinical physiology, Cross-country skiing physiology, Thermoregulation

Dr. Leo D’Acquisto, Ed.D., University of Northern Colorado, 1993
Effects of aging on athletic performance, Physiology and mechanics of swimming and running, Physiological responses to head-out water immersion during rest and exercise, Limits of human performance

Dr. James DePaepe, Ph.D., University of New Mexico, 1982
Neurophysiology, Motor behavior

Dr. Vince Nethery, Ph.D., University of Oregon, 1989
Environmental Physiology, Clinical physiology, Aging, DOMS

Dr. Karen Roemer, Ph.D., Chemnitz University of Technology, 2004
Gait stability and variability in human walking, Pediatric obesity and impact on lower extremity biomechanics, Biomechanics of select aspects of volleyball, walking, running and, rowing

Dr. Eric Foch, Ph.D., University of Tennessee 2012
Biomechanics of knee injury in running, Motor control strategies associated with balance

Dr. Kelly Pritchett, Ph.D., University of Alabama, 2008
Pre-exercise nutrition and athletic performance, Nutrition and recovery from exercise, Thermoregulation, Eating disorders in athletes

Dr. Robert Pritchett, Ph.D., University of Alabama, 2007
Environmental physiology, Nutrition, hydration and human performance
Athletes with spinal cord injuries

Information: 

Department of Health Sciences
Central Washington University
400 East University Way
Ellensburg, WA 98926-7572
(509) 963-1912

Apply HERE