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Wartburg College expands graduate options with two new master's degrees in health and human performance

Waverly, IA (12/05/2024) — Wartburg College will launch two new online graduate programs in health and human performance - a Master of Science in sport science and data analytics and a Master of Science in high performance - beginning fall 2025.

The programs, which build on the college's reputation for excellence in undergraduate health sciences programs and athletic dominance, will produce students ready to lead and serve in a variety of athletic and nonathletic venues.

"Wartburg College is uniquely positioned to excel in this transformative initiative. Our athletic programs consistently achieve national recognition, reflecting our dedication to excellence. Furthermore, our significant investments in health and human performance disciplines and campus infrastructure have produced extraordinary outcomes at the undergraduate level" said Rebecca Ehretsman, Wartburg College president. "Building on this foundation, we are eager to expand our impact by advancing our graduate programs into this vital area of study."

Since approving an undergraduate major in exercise science in 2018, the college has invested nearly $4 million into the Wuertz Health & Human Performance Center - which houses classroom and lab spaces for the discipline - and the Meyer Strength & Conditioning Annex, a two-story weight room for student-athletes. Each of the 17 lifting racks in the weight room is equipped with EliteForm tracking technology, a first-of-its-kind investment for an NCAA Division III school.

The 33-hour master's in sport science and data analytics will teach students the skills necessary to analyze data and turn it into actionable insights that will optimize performance. The 36-hour master's in high performance combines elite coaching and cutting-edge technology with the goal of attaching the highest standard of achievement in athletic competition.

Both programs have been approved by the Higher Learning Commission, the college's accrediting body.

"We are thrilled to add these two new programs to Wartburg's growing portfolio of graduate degrees. These cutting-edge offerings will enhance students' understanding of contemporary issues in today's sports science field and allow them to apply their learning in relevant environments aligned with their professional goals," said Michael Gleason, associate dean of graduate studies. "It is exciting to envision our graduate students leading in this industry."

Each two-year program includes dynamic online coursework and an in-person practicum that can be completed on campus at Wartburg or at other locations nationwide with a contracted partner.

Debora Johnson-Ross, vice president of academic affairs and dean of the faculty, said the rapid growth of the undergraduate exercise science program and the success of the college's first graduate program in leadership bodes well for Wartburg's newest undertaking.

"We have seen great energy from our graduates who are interested in coming back to Wartburg College to pursue advanced degrees," Johnson-Ross said. "Though our graduate programs are delivered online, we piloted a graduate assistant program for students in the master's in leadership program that places students in roles aligned with their interests across campus. I believe the on-campus practicum option will resonate deeply with those who developed a strong connection to Wartburg as undergraduates and want to continue working closely with the faculty, coaches and peers they respect and admire."

Recruitment for the program will begin immediately with the first cohort of students beginning classes in fall 2025.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for individuals to grow their skill sets and elevate their professional credentials," said Kassy Grosser, director of graduate program operations. "The innovative nature of the programs is impressive, and I am delighted to serve as a resource to students as they explore next steps in the admissions process and discern how these unique programs can help them reach their personal goals."

The college will host a public launch in February as well as informational webinars this spring. For more information visit www.wartburg.edu/hhp-masters or email gradstudies@wartburg.edu.

Media Attachments

Patricia Dietz shows two students how to use the EliteForm motion tracking technology in the weight room.

Students conduct a V02 max test during class.

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