Curriculum
The PAWS curriculum can be completed in one or two years, with an opportunity to obtain an Integrative Health & Wellness Coaching Graduate Certificate as part of the two-year option. The coursework examines the science underlying the relationship between chronic diseases and health behaviors, focusing on modifiable behaviors, including physical inactivity and poor nutrition and emphasizing evidence- and theory-based health interventions that address health issues across the socio-ecological range.
Upon completion of the master's degree in PAWS, the successful student should be able to assess the current health status and needs of a community, identify existing resources that could be accessed and applicable to addressing the community’s needs, design an evidence-based program targeting the community’s needs including critical steps, timelines, and measurable outcomes, successfully implement and evaluate the program, and then effectively communicate program outcomes.
M.S. IN PAWS ONE-YEAR CURRICULUM
Fall Semester, 15 credits
- EXSC 6020 - Evidence-based Practice in Physical Activity
- EXSC 6030 - Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Epidemiology
- EXSC 6450 - Exercise Assessment and Prescription
- EXSC 6540 - Physical Activity & Wellness Promotion
- EXSC 6600 - Physical Activity, Weight Management, and Energy Balance
Spring Semester, 15 credits
- EXSC 6500 - Physiological Aspects of Physical Activity and Chronic Disease
- EXSC 6065 - Activity in the Underserved
- EXSC 6680 - Physical Activity and Wellness Program Design
- EXSC 6700 - Physical Activity and Wellness: Communication & Evaluation
- Elective Graduate Course
Total = 30 credits
The final spring semester includes a comprehensive exam.
Download the one-year curriculum plan (PDF)
View the program handbook (PDF)
Interested in earning a Certificate in Integrative Health and Wellness Coaching with your master's degree?
The joint PAWS and Wellness Coaching program offers the added benefit of preparation for certification as an integrative health and wellness coach. The coaching component of the curriculum offers motivational and behavioral skills to help individuals make lifestyle changes. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Board Certified - Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) credential offered by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching.
PAWS M.S. AND INTEGRATIVE HEALTH & WELLNESS COACHING CERTIFICATE CURRICULUM
1st Year Fall Semester (9 credits)
- EXSC 6020 - Evidence-based Practice in Physical Activity
- EXSC 6450 - Exercise Assessment and Prescription
- EXSC 6600 - Physical Activity, Weight Management, and Energy Balance
1st Year Spring Semester (10 credits)
- EXSC 6500 - Physiological Aspects of Physical Activity and Chronic Disease
- EXSC 6650 - Activity in the Underserved
- Integrative Health & Wellness Coaching Immersion Introduction
- Motivational Interviewing Introduction & Lab
- Integrative Health & Wellness Coaching Skills Introduction & Lab
2nd Year Fall Semester (10 credits)
- EXSC 6030 - Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Epidemiology
- EXSC 6054 - Physical Activity and Wellness Promotion
- HLTH 5860 - Advanced Integrative Health & Wellness Coaching
- HLTH 5870 - Health and Wellness Coaching Practicum*
2nd Year Spring Semester (6 credits)
- EXSC 6030 - Physical Activity and Wellness Program Design and Evaluation
- EXSC 6700 - Physical Activity & Wellness: Communication & Evaluation
* HLTH 5870 is highly recommended but not required for completion of the Certificate in Integrative Health & Wellness Coaching.
Total credits = 35
The final spring semester includes a comprehensive exam.
View the curriculum plan (PDF)