MSc Clinical Exercise Physiology

There has never been a more exciting time to study an MSc in Clinical Exercise Physiology. A fast-growing and essential specialism around the world, Clinical Exercise Physiologists (CEPs) are experts in exercise testing and assessment. They design, deliver and evaluate evidence-based exercise interventions in patients with long-term conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and respiratory disease.

With longer life expectancy comes greater chance of being diagnosed with a long-term health condition. Therefore as the UK’s population ages, the NHS has needed to set out a clear strategy to improve health and support for individuals at risk of, or those already diagnosed with, long-term disease. There is now greater need for CEPs who are skilled to work within care teams across multiple chronic disease populations, where exercise interventions demonstrate a reduced risk of disease, improve quality of life and minimise healthcare costs. Our MSc Clinical Exercise Physiology course will prepare you for those roles. You’ll graduate as a well-rounded clinician having gained critical thinking skills, expert knowledge and extensive practical experience in key physiology tests. This includes cardiopulmonary exercise testing, ultrasound assessment of cardiovascular function and advanced imaging.

You’ll learn all this from experts in the field; registered clinical exercise physiologists, consultant cardiologists/oncologists and surgeons, as well as experienced professionals from the world of psychology and nutrition. Many of our teaching staff have worked in the clinical sector, ensuring your learning is influenced by real-world experience. Together with well-established links and contacts throughout the health care sector, you’ll leave us career ready.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Our applied learning techniques and strong industry connections ensure our students are fully prepared for the workplace upon graduation and understand how to apply their knowledge in a real-world context.

The substantial placement that you will undertake during the course of this programme will prepare you for a number of relevant roles in Clinical Exercise Physiology. Placement options include experience at Prehab4Cancer, Heartbeat Northwest cardiac centre and several NHS Trusts.

Your career could see you working within a number of health organisations such as the NHS, private hospitals (eg Nuffield Health), Universities and other healthcare providers. Roles are varied and hugely rewarding, including:

Cardiac rehabilitation
Pulmonary rehabilitation
Cancer prehabilitation
Health screening and intervention
Obesity management
Exercise therapy for special populations
Research or further study

Whatever career path you choose, with a strong and solid grounding in the science behind sport and exercise, you’ll have a lot to offer and many possibilities to explore.

At least a 2.1 degree or equivalent in a relevant science or health-related subject. A Satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) enhanced criminal records check is required upon registration to the course. You will also need a satisfactory occupational health clearance to participate in this course.