Masters in Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, USA | Mrunmayee Dixit

This week’s spotlight features Mrunmayee Dixit, who is pursuing Master’s in Exercise and Nutrition Science from University of Tampa at Florida. In this detailed spotlight, Mrunmayee has answered all questions thoroughly. Hope is that this spotlight helps you get basic idea about her course and answers to your preliminary questions. Thank you Mrunmayee for sharing your journey!

What is your name and the course you are enrolled in currently?

My name is Mrunmayee Dixit. I am currently pursuing a Masters in Exercise & Nutrition Sciences from the University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida.

What is your educational background?

I did my Bachelors of Physiotherapy from K. J. Somaiya College of Physiotherapy, Mumbai, MUHS, and came to the US in January 2021 to do my Master’s.

Why did you decide to pursue a Master’s in Exercise & Nutrition Science in the USA?

I always knew from the beginning that if I ever decide to do a master’s it would be from abroad. So, I started searching for courses 3 years back all over the globe. I chose to come to the US for this course specifically because this course is for 1 year. It is also STEM approved. Along with that, I found the course content to be interesting as it also had Nutrition along with Exercise Sciences. It was different from a lot of other programs that I saw.

What were the universities you considered?

I applied to only 4 universities: The University of Tampa and the University of South Florida had master’s programs. St. Andrews University and Loma Linda University had a tDPT program.

I received an offer letter from The University of Tampa and St. Andrews University.

Why did you choose The University of Tampa?

There are several advantages that I saw in this university, firstly, the course is just 1 year, so it gets over quickly. Secondly, it is STEM approved, so this allows me to stay here for 3 years more and seek more opportunities. Thirdly, the course fees are much more reasonable as compared to a lot of universities. Lastly, the cost of living and weather in Florida is good as compared to other states.

Tell us more about the application process for the course (Eligibility, requirements, etc.)

The admission process is a rolling admission as there are 2 intakes for international students; Fall and Spring and you can apply throughout the year. 

Eligibility & Requirements:

• Completed application.
• 2 letters of recommendation.
• GPA above 3.
• IELTS/ TOEFL.
• Official Transcripts.
• WES evaluation.
• Resume
• Structure of purpose.
• Completed bachelor’s degree in a related field
• Consent to a background check is required for a practicum position
• Complete prerequisites.

Prerequisites: 5

• Exercise Physiology, 
• Anatomy/Physiology, 
• Exercise Testing and Prescription, 
• Nutrition, 
• Statistics/Research Methods. 
• Only courses with a grade of “C” or better will be accepted.

Did you go through any counselor?

Yes, Binoy Mehta Advisory, Vile Parle West, Mumbai, India.

What was the process to apply for the visa?

My counselor took care of filling my DS-160 application. Meanwhile, I prepared all the financial documents and proof of funds that would have been required to be shown during the interview along with my I-20 and Offer letter from the University.  

How difficult was it to obtain a student’s visa?

The most difficult part of my visa process was to get a visa date. Due to Covid-19, the embassies were not fully functional and there were very limited slots open every day. It took almost a month to get the visa dates. My interview process was smooth, they asked me basic questions and my interview lasted less than a minute.

Tell us more about your course (duration, module, teaching environment, etc.)

I started in Spring, 2021, the duration is 1 academic year, 33 credits, so I would be graduating in January 2022. The module is pretty straightforward, we do not have many electives in this program and the classes are conducted only every Tuesday, 5.00-9.15 pm, rest of the activities are done online. The professors are highly qualified, and you would learn in-depth about each module. All the professors are extremely friendly and highly approachable.

What did you like about your course? What did you not like?

They offer one course on current perspectives in Exercise Science, in which we discuss all of the research publications on various forms of exercise. This course extended my perspective and helped me understand better what form of exercises to choose for a specific individual and what that individual’s goal is. In comparison to earlier, I can now offer a better exercise prescription for my clients. Along with that, I learned about nutrition, which is useful since I can advise my clients on nutritional aspects. The full course was not very difficult, and you should be able to finish it without too much difficulty.

The one section I was not really interested in was the Research Methods; I don’t see myself having a passion for research, so I found that a little uninteresting, but it was fun to learn about.

How difficult was it for you to complete the course?

Honestly, I took some time to adjust to the new education pattern in my Spring term, but as I got a hang of how to manage studies, it wasn’t that difficult. It was manageable and less time-consuming.

How much were overall expenses? (Tuition + Cost of living)?

The tuition fee for the entire year is $23,115/-. The cost of living for me was approximately $13,000/- including everything.

What are the job prospects in the USA after the course?

Since this course has 40% Nutrition, we could work as Nutritionist after clearing one exam. Along with it, Exercise Physiologist, Rehab Trainer, Strength & Conditioning Coach, Cardiac Rehabilitation trainer, Physical therapist, etc. These are the job areas that are available post the course. You need to obtain your physical therapy license to work as a physical therapist.

How difficult is it to obtain a work permit/ license?

I want to continue working as a Physical Therapist after my course is done. I have already started my process for FCCPT Evaluation and am preparing to give a few General credit Exams that are required to clear before I can give my License Exam.

Editor’s note: For more information about the licensing process in US, read this article.

Tell us briefly about obtaining a work permit and/or license in the USA?

To work as a licensed physical therapist there is a long process of FCCPT, if you’re planning for any state in the USA except New York. If you plan to come here for your Masters, I would advise you to start the evaluation process simultaneously as it takes time. Also, start preparing for the required general credit exams so that you could save time and give the license exam immediately after the evaluation is completed.  The time that is generally required for the entire process is approximately 10-15 months.

What are you doing presently?

I am almost about to get done with my course. So, I am currently focusing on my final exams. As soon as they are done, I will start my job applications.

What are your future plans?

One year down the line I look at myself to at least finish my licensing process for Physical Therapy and look for jobs related to health and fitness.

What is the advice you would give to PT students who want to pursue higher education in the USA?

From my experiences, the best advice I can provide is that pursuing a master’s degree is more efficient than pursuing a DPT or tDPT since it provides you with more information and a deeper comprehension of the subject. There are career opportunities here, so staying for a longer time or settling down might be a safe and desirable alternative. Having said that, believe in the process. Stick to your goal. Everything falls in place perfectly.

Where can people reach you?

You can reach me on LinkedIn