Master in Exercise and Fitness Management
Completion
1 Year
Credits
30
Degree Type
Master’s
Delivery
Online
Cost per Credit
$599*
Program Cost
$17,970*
*2025-2026 academic year
Turn your passion for fitness and performance into a thriving career. Corban’s Master in Exercise and Fitness Management is a one-year, fully online degree that blends the science of human movement with practical business training—equipping you to lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact in the health, sport, and fitness industries.
This innovative program combines best practices in kinesiology with business strategy, offering an accelerated alternative to a traditional MBA specifically for sport and fitness professionals. Whether you’re a coach, trainer, gym manager, or aspiring entrepreneur, you’ll gain tools to enhance both individual performance and organizational success.
More than just training programs or business plans, this degree prepares you to motivate others, grow your career, and make informed, ethical decisions in a rapidly evolving industry. In this program, you’ll:
- Learn the latest strategies for improving human performance.
- Develop practical business and leadership skills tailored to sport and fitness careers.
- Explore topics in kinesiology, management, performance psychology, and entrepreneurship.
- Study fully online in a flexible format designed for working professionals.
- Graduate in just 12 months prepared to advance your career or start your own business.
If you’re driven to help others reach their goals—whether through coaching, recovery, fitness, or wellness—this program will empower you to do it with excellence and purpose.
Program Courses
BUS534 | Finance, Reporting and Control
Get a big-picture view of how organizations manage money, make decisions, and manage risk. This course introduces the core functions of accounting, finance, and internal control—helping support strong, informed leadership.
BUS564 | Leadership & Organizational Behavior
Explore what it means to lead effectively and understand how people behave within organizations. This course blends leadership theory with real-world application, helping you discover your own leadership style. You’ll also study how individuals and groups function in the workplace, learning practical strategies for navigating and influencing organizational culture.
BUS584 | Business Strategy & Entrepreneurship
Turn big ideas into real ventures. This course walks you through business planning, competitive strategy, and sustainable growth while equipping you to think creatively and lead with confidence.
KIN510 | Science of Exercise Training and Performance
Explore how the body responds to training and how to design effective workout programs. Study key anatomical and physiological principles and learn how to apply evidence-based techniques to improve strength, endurance, and overall performance.
KIN520 | Performance Psychology
Explore the mental strategies behind peak performance. This course looks at how to create the right mindset and environment—whether for individuals or teams—to support consistent, high-level achievement.
KIN530 | Current Topics in Kinesiology
Engage with real-world issues shaping the field of kinesiology today. Through professional writings, self-reflection, and peer discussion, you’ll explore topics such as exercise programming, biomechanics, motor learning, nutrition, and performance. This course challenges you to think critically and apply what you learn to practical, evolving scenarios in the health and human performance fields.
For more info on courses, view the program overview.
For official course descriptions, refer to the academic catalog.
Take your professional development and passion for sport, health, and fitness to the next level with a master’s degree that seamlessly blends the best practices of business and leadership with the practical application and principles of exercise and fitness management.
What to Expect
100% Online Format
Earn your degree without pausing your career. This 100% online program is designed for working professionals who want flexibility without sacrificing quality. You’ll access course materials through an interactive online platform and engage with your professors and classmates through thoughtful discussion and group work. Best of all, you’ll be able to apply what you’re learning directly to your current role or business in real time.
One Class at a Time
Stay focused and on track with Corban’s accelerated and flexible structure. The program consists of a total of six 8-week courses, allowing you to focus on one class at a time while completing your degree in just 12 months. You can give each course your full attention while balancing work, life, and school. If you need to take a break between sessions, you’ll have the flexibility to do so.
Biblical Integration
Lead with integrity rooted in your faith. Every course in the program integrates a biblical worldview, equipping you to make ethical decisions and lead with purpose. You’ll be challenged to think critically and compassionately about the role of faith in leadership, business, and fitness—and to let God’s Word guide how you serve others.
Practical, Career-Focused Learning
Corban’s MEFM program blends foundational business principles with advanced kinesiology topics to equip you for leadership in the sport and fitness industry. Build essential skills for managing teams and growing a business while also expanding your understanding of human performance. The MEFM gives you practical, best-practices-based training for your current and future career.
Experienced Faculty
Corban’s MEFM program is taught by experienced faculty with experience in areas like corporate wellness, rehabilitation, business leadership, and kinesiology. They bring practical insight and academic excellence to every course. The same faculty who teach in Corban’s MBA and undergraduate kinesiology programs are committed to supporting you—personally and professionally—throughout your graduate journey.
Affordable Tuition
We’ve intentionally created a program that is low-cost and high-value. Corban’s graduate programs are some of the most affordable among private universities in the West, while remaining committed to academic excellence and a biblical foundation.
Generous Scholarships
We’re excited to offer scholarships specifically for graduate students, including Corban alumni, parents of Corban students, military, members of partner network churches, and employees of non-profit or ministry organizations.
Program Takeaways
Business Skills for Fitness Professionals
Gain the leadership, communication, budgeting, and entrepreneurial skills today’s fitness professionals need. Designed to build on your experience as a coach, trainer, athlete, or instructor, the MEFM equips you to lead teams, manage facilities, or launch your own business. You’ll develop practical knowledge in areas like entrepreneurship and finance to take your passion—and your career—to the next level.
Career Advancement in a Competitive Field
Many employers now look for candidates with a master’s degree and a strong grasp of both fitness and business. The MEFM prepares you to stand out in roles such as strength and conditioning coach, rehabilitation specialist, or facility manager by combining your hands-on expertise with strategic business insight.
Increased Earning Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a master’s degree can boost your earning potential by 19% compared to a bachelor’s degree. The MEFM demonstrates your credibility and competence in both human performance and business leadership—giving you a valuable edge whether you’re applying for a promotion or growing your client base.
Real-World Application from Day One
This degree is designed for immediate impact. Each course bridges theory with practice, allowing you to apply what you’re learning right away—whether it’s improving performance outcomes, managing a fitness facility, or inspiring others toward lifelong wellness.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Bryce Bernard
Chair, Hoff School of Business | Professor of Business | Faculty Athletic Representative
bbernard@corban.edu(503) 375-7034
