Our performance in life is directly tied to our health.
Through an emphasis on lifestyle and fitness, you can achieve greater levels of physical performance than you thought possible, while at the same time learning to competently and compassionately lead others into healthier lifestyles as well. Our online Master of Science in Health & Human Performance (MSHPP) degree program focuses on two relevant concentration areas: Health and Fitness Promotion, and Coaching and Fitness Leadership. If you want to achieve effective and ethical leadership styles in guiding individual and team performance, this is the program for you.
By the Numbers
Programs & Requirements
Master of Science in Health & Human Performance (MSHHP)
This online master’s in health and human performance will provide you with an understanding of chronic disease prevention along with intervention skills to execute health promotion programs for diverse populations. In short, not only will you be better able to improve and maintain your own health and fitness, but you will also be able to effectively guide others into healthier lifestyles after completing this human performance master’s degree. Accepting that our mental and emotional wellbeing is directly linked to our physical health, by helping others improve their physical wellbeing, you will also aid in improving their mental and emotional health, increasing their potential to live more confident and successful lives.
Course Requirements
Choose from two (2) elective courses (6 credit hours) to round out the required credit hours needed for the MSHHP.
- HHP 537 - Coaching and Fitness Leadership
- HHP 631 - Advanced Coaching and Fitness Leadership
- HHP 632 - Current Issues in Health Promotion
- HHP 633 - Current Issues in Coaching and Fitness Leadership
- HHP 634 - Strength and Conditioning
- HHP 635 - Youth Health and Fitness
- HHP 636 - Plant Based Nutrition
- HHP 637 - Applied Sports Medicine
- HHP 638 - Administrative and Management Strategies
- HHP 639 - Special Topics
Take the Next Step
Mission & Goals
The mission of the online master of science and human performance program is to prepare you for an effective career in health-related vocations.
Health & Human Performance Careers & Outcomes
All stats from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Fitness Trainer: $45,380
Fitness Trainer: $45,380
Fitness trainers and instructors lead, instruct, and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities.
Fitness Studies Teacher: $72,650
Fitness Studies Teacher: $72,650
Teach courses pertaining to recreation, leisure, and fitness studies, including exercise physiology and facilities management. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Physical Therapist: $97,720
Physical Therapist: $97,720
Physical therapists help injured or ill people improve movement and manage pain.
Coach/Scout: $44,890
Coach/Scout: $44,890
Coaches teach amateur or professional athletes the skills they need to succeed at their sport. Scouts evaluate athletes as possible recruits.
Health Education Specialist: $59,990
Health Education Specialist: $59,990
Health education specialists develop programs to teach people about conditions affecting well-being.
Athletic Trainer: $53,840
Athletic Trainer: $53,840
Athletic trainers specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses.
Common Questions
A master’s degree in health and human performance prepares students to enhance physical health and wellness through fitness promotion, chronic disease prevention, and coaching techniques. This degree provides the skills needed to lead health programs and promote healthy lifestyles.
Typically, the master’s program requires 30 credit hours and can be completed in about two years, depending on your pace and course load.
Yes, the master’s in health and human performance is available fully online, offering flexibility for working professionals or those with other commitments.
Yes, this degree is valuable for those looking to advance in health-focused careers, such as fitness training, health education, and athletic coaching. It provides a solid foundation in health leadership and disease prevention.
With this degree, you can pursue roles as a fitness trainer, health educator, athletic trainer, physical therapist, or coach. These roles allow you to make a positive impact on individuals’ health and wellness.
To earn this degree, you’ll need to complete 30 credit hours of coursework, focusing on fitness, health promotion, and leadership in health programs. Applications generally require a bachelor’s degree and may include transcripts and relevant experience.
The program can be challenging, as it combines scientific knowledge of health and fitness with leadership skills. However, with dedication and interest in health, many students find the content engaging and manageable.
Faculty Experts
Learn more about your future Cumberlands professors.
Dr. Anita Bowman
Dr. Eric Stephens
Dr. Ann Livengood
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