Sport and Exercise Therapy, Prevention, and Physical Activity-related Health Research
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Would you like to help promote health through exercise in a sustainable way – whilst also taking an interest in the latest developments such as digital health solutions, wearables or artificial intelligence? If so, the Master’s degree programme in M.Sc. Sport and Exercise Therapy, Prevention, and Physical Activity-related Health Research could be a good fit for you.
The degree programme is aimed at graduates with a background in sport science or health-related subjects who wish to deepen their expertise in a health field with a strong focus on the future. The degree programme centres on the evidence-based planning, implementation and evaluation of physical activity-based interventions – ranging from prevention through to therapy and rehabilitation.
To succeed on this programme, you should have a basic knowledge of and interest in areas such as scientific methodology, statistics, anatomy and physiology, neuromechanics, as well as psychological, sociological and educational issues. Content from the fields of exercise science and rehabilitation science also forms an important foundation. A good command of English is required, as much of the relevant specialist literature is in English.
If you are interested in the effects of physical activity on physical, mental and social health and wish to apply scientific findings in practice, this Degree programme provides you with a sound foundation. At the same time, you will develop an understanding of how digital technologies can be meaningfully integrated into healthcare concepts.
This Degree programme is particularly suitable for you if you think in an interdisciplinary way, enjoy scientific work and wish to make an active contribution to the further development of healthcare.
Key facts
Duration of study
4 semesters
Commencement of studies
Winter semester
Workload
120 Credit Points
Application deadline
- 31st of May (Non-EU)
- 15th of July (GER & EU)
Qualification
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Language of instruction
German
Fees
approx. 335€ (Semester fee)
University places
30 places per cohort
Semester abroad
optional
Admission Requirements
The admission requirement for this Master’s degree programme is a successfully completed Bachelor’s degree in which at least 180 credit points under the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) have been obtained, or an equivalent successfully completed degree.
The following requirements also apply to the programme as set out in sentence 1 of the Admissions Regulations:
- a specialisation in the field of sport, health or rehabilitation science
- at least 90 ECTS in the subject of Sport science, of which 870 hours or 29 ECTS credits must cover the areas specified in the 2nd prevention principle (as set out in the GKV Guidelines¹, version of 17 December 2025, Table 2). You will find the detailed list in the Admissions Regulations.
- If you did not obtain your university degree in a German-speaking country, you must provide evidence of sufficient proficiency in German.
Degree Structure and Content
The SBT Master’s degree programme is designed as a four-semester, modular, full-time course comprising a total of 120 credit points. You will complete twelve modules, each with clearly structured content, learning objectives and assessment methods.
At the start, you will acquire fundamental theoretical knowledge through lectures and seminars. As the programme progresses, the focus shifts to application-oriented teaching formats such as practical sessions, hands-on courses and research-based learning. An internship and teaching practice sessions will enable you to gain practical professional experience and refine your professional profile in a targeted manner.
In terms of content, you will operate at the interface between Sport science, health and therapy. Among other things, you will examine the effects of physical activity across the entire lifespan, prevention and rehabilitation processes, and the development and evaluation of evidence-based interventions in various settings.
There is a particular focus on current topics such as health services research, diagnostics and assessment, digital health applications and the use of artificial intelligence. You will learn to apply various research methods (quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods) and to tackle scientific research questions independently.
In the fourth semester, you will write your Master’s thesis, applying the skills acquired during your studies to your own research question.
Programme-specific documents
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save_altModule handbook SBTDownload "Module handbook SBT"Pdf, 809 KB
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save_altCurriculum schedule SBTDownload "Curriculum schedule SBT"Pdf, 288 KB
Career Opportunities and Professional Perspectives
Here are your options at GSU and your career prospects after graduation.
Further options at GSU
The career prospects for graduates of this Degree programme are very good. The demand for academically qualified professionals in prevention, therapy and rehabilitation is growing – driven, amongst other things, by demographic trends, the rise in chronic conditions and the increasing importance of health promotion.
You will be qualified for specialist and managerial roles in various sectors of the healthcare system, research and beyond. Typical areas of work include hospitals, rehabilitation and therapy centres, and social insurance organisations. Research institutions, universities and specialist Institutes also offer you opportunities to contribute to the further development of evidence-based approaches.
Furthermore, career paths open up in the private sector, for example in medical technology companies or in the field of digital health, as well as in the public sector, such as in government departments, local authorities or organisations involved in sport and health promotion. Roles in education and Further Education are also possible.
If you are aiming for an academic career, the Master's degree also provides you with a solid foundation for a PhD Programme. Overall, the Degree programme qualifies you for a wide range of roles in which you can combine exercise, health and innovation.
Any questions?
International Office
Main Building, first floor
E-Mail: masterapplication@dshs-koeln.de
Phone: +49 221 4982-2160
International Office: Consultation hours
- Mon - Fri: 9 - 11 am
- Mon, Wed, Thu: 2 - 3 pm
Student Advisory Service: Guidance and academic advice
Main Building, first floor
E-Mail: studienberatung@dshs-koeln.de
Phone: +49 221 4982-2520
Student Advisory Service: Consultation hours
Via phone:
- Mon - Fri: 9 - 11 am
- Mon - Thu: 2 - 3 pm
On site:
- Mon & Wed: 9 - 11 am
- Mon & Wed: 2 - 3 pm
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