Clinical Exercise Science (CES)

The Master of Science in Clinical Exercise Science at the University of Potsdam is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the assessment, treatment, and prevention of chronic diseases through exercise. This program combines theoretical foundations in physiology, biomechanics, and sports medicine with practical training in clinical settings, preparing graduates for careers in healthcare, rehabilitation, and sports organizations. Students will explore the physiological responses to exercise, learn how to develop individualized training programs, and gain insights into the latest research in exercise science and its applications in clinical contexts. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and hands-on experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to support patients with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. Collaboration with healthcare professionals and institutions provides valuable real-world experience, while research opportunities foster innovation and scientific inquiry. Graduates of this program will be competent to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports clinics, and research institutions, contributing to improving health outcomes through exercise intervention. With a strong emphasis on scientific rigor and practical expertise, the Clinical Exercise Science program at the University of Potsdam aims to develop highly qualified professionals dedicated to promoting health and well-being across diverse populations. The program is designed for students with a background in sports sciences, health sciences, or related fields who wish to specialize further in clinical applications of exercise. Graduates will be prepared to take on roles that require a detailed understanding of human physiology and the ability to implement safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual needs. The University of Potsdam's state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and strong connections with health institutions ensure a rich learning environment that supports academic excellence and professional development. As part of the MSc in Clinical Exercise Science, students will also engage in research projects, seminars, and internships that translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to the field of clinical exercise and healthcare.

Educational organisation

The study programme "Clinical Exercise Science" is a combined Master/PhD-study. In the first common year, students will be taught in foundational and intermediate modules, in scientific methods and evaluation and exercise in prevention and rehabilitation. Furthermore, students will train their skills in practical project planning, application of methods and data collection in their own projects. After the first year, students will decide whether they want to finish their Master degree or start directly with the PhD-part of the study. Then students will advance their knowledge in scientific qualification and applied methods.

The first part of the programme begins each winter semester and involves the Master's and PhD students in a combined first year. Students receive academic and methodological education in "Scientific Methods and Evaluation". Other specific topics are taught in the modules "Exercise in Prevention and Rehabilitation" and "Applied Methods".
In the second part of the programme, beginning in the third semester, the Master's programme continues with a career preparation segment (Advanced Module "Scientific Methods and Evaluation", Intermediate Module "Applied Methods") and is concluded with the Master's thesis. Alternatively, a three-year PhD programme can commence in the third semester, beginning with the advanced modules "Scientific Qualification" and "Applied Methods".
The Master's programme is a two-year full-time course (120 CP). The PhD programme is a four-year full-time course (240 CP).

Course objectives

Participants will learn the skills required for leading positions in health services and academic careers. The aim of the Master's programme is to develop an interdisciplinary approach to the practical and scientific collaboration between various health science professions. The aim of the PhD programme is to acquire the skills necessary for independent research and academic teaching.

Language requirements

Applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of their English skills: TOEFL 213 (computer-based), 82 points (Internet-based), or equivalent.

Academic requirements

A degree-granting course of study of at least six semesters (e.g. BA, BSc) in prevention and rehabilitation studies or any related field

Enrolment fees

Up to 275 EUR; the fee includes a so-called "Semester-Ticket" for public transport in Berlin/Potsdam

Costs of living

Approx. 800 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

Job opportunities for students alongside their studies are numerous. Depending on personal and professional skills, students can find jobs in the service sector (e.g., in restaurants, cinemas, museums, theatres, etc.) or work as student assistants at the university or in the numerous non-university research institutions located in Potsdam. Furthermore, lots of tourist attractions (castles and museums) in town offer jobs for international students. More job opportunities for students of the University of Potsdam are offered by the "Studentenwerk Potsdam" (see http://www.studentenwerk-potsdam.de/jobvermittlung.html).
As the German capital Berlin is located just around the corner, students can also find jobs there.

Funding opportunities within the university

The university has a scholarship programme for excellent international students. Recipients receive approx. 1,000 EUR per month. Application at the Potsdam Graduate School (POGS) is necessary.

Arrival support

Potsdam is conveniently located near the Berlin airports and international train stations. You can reach Potsdam easily via the local train service (S-Bahn and Regionalbahn).
The winter semester at the University of Potsdam starts on 1 October and the summer semester starts on 1 April. Detailed information about your exact arrival day, meeting point, and how to reach your meeting point is provided by the programme coordinators.

The University of Potsdam provides numerous preparatory programmes that start prior to or at the beginning of the semester. More information on specific courses for international students can be found online: http://www.uni-potsdam.de/en/zessko/the-introductory-study-phase/index-eng.html. Preparatory courses cover study techniques or the German language, including a preparation course for the DSH test. The preparatory courses aim to support international students right from the start and thus facilitate a successful study experience.

Moreover, international students can participate in the Buddy Programme. This programme offers a support network in which students from the university assist our newly arrived international students. The support network especially offers support at the start of the programme, but the support often continues until the end of the semester. The international and German students involved in the programme exchange language and cultural skills and thus quickly get to know many fellow students and the new academic environment.

Services and support for international students

The International Office provides advice to international students on all administrative issues as well as on legal and financial questions. All programmes have coordinators who should be contacted with any questions regarding the study programme, application, and details of the specific programme.

The University of Potsdam offers various programmes and courses to support international students (Buddy Programme, Tandem Programme, preparatory courses). The Buddy Programme offers a support network in which students of the university assist newly arrived students before and upon their arrival in Potsdam and at the university.

Accommodation

Depending on the programme, accommodation is either arranged in advance or the International Office will help you find suitable accommodation. Student accommodation is managed by the Studentenwerk Potsdam. On their website (see below), the available rooms can be viewed and further information about the application process can be found.
See: http://www.studentenwerk-potsdam.de/en/wohnen.html