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Aerospace physiologist/AMSOs

croakerfish

Well-Known Member
pilot
Hello! I'm a new poster here, but this is currently the path I really want to take, with either the Navy or the Air Force. I have been trying to learn as much as possible about what is required, but I do still have some questions:

1. I'm currently getting my masters in Exercise Physiology and taking the chem classes I still need, I am a sports performance coach, and am working on getting as much instructor experience as a GA as possible. And obviously trying to get the best grades I can. Is there anything else I should be trying to learn or do?

2. Is there a way to see how many applicants there were compared to how many were accepted each opening? Or just a gauge of how competitive the process is?

3. I've seen mention in other places that they only really accept PhDs, how true is this?

4. How important would flying hours be? My schedule is already packed but there is a reasonably priced flight school around here and I could try to fit in lessons if it would help.

5. Any ideas for a thesis project? I have talked to some of my professors and they mentioned the engineering department would help be build a hypoxic environment chamber if I wanted to do something with it.

6. Any other tips for someone starting on this process? I graduate April 2017 so I still have plenty of time to prepare and get stuff in.

I was initially in your exact position in 2010, and applied to AF and Navy for Aerospace Phys as well. Problem was, I was wrapping up my thesis and graduating in a semester and so by the time I was deep in the process, I had no chance to pick up a missing prereq Biochemistry class. So I agree with the above, get in touch with a medical recruiter ASAP so you can iron out the specifics well in advance. I doubt flight experience or the subject of your thesis will matter much. Part of the process is going down to Pensacola and giving a lecture to a room full of MSC personnel, so take those opportunities to give presentations seriously!

Alternatively, you could do what I did and become a pilot instead. No regrets!
 

Astrower

New Member
I was initially in your exact position in 2010, and applied to AF and Navy for Aerospace Phys as well. Problem was, I was wrapping up my thesis and graduating in a semester and so by the time I was deep in the process, I had no chance to pick up a missing prereq Biochemistry class. So I agree with the above, get in touch with a medical recruiter ASAP so you can iron out the specifics well in advance. I doubt flight experience or the subject of your thesis will matter much. Part of the process is going down to Pensacola and giving a lecture to a room full of MSC personnel, so take those opportunities to give presentations seriously!

Alternatively, you could do what I did and become a pilot instead. No regrets!

Yeah this is my issue currently. I feel like I either have to rush through my Masters and chem prereqs, or delay my Masters to get my prereqs in. I'll have to talk to my professors to determine what makes the most sense. After this semester I still need at least Organic 1 and 2, plus Biochem. When I contacted someone initially they also had a large list of other "recommended" classes which there is no way I will be able to do them all, which worries me.
 

croakerfish

Well-Known Member
pilot
Yeah this is my issue currently. I feel like I either have to rush through my Masters and chem prereqs, or delay my Masters to get my prereqs in. I'll have to talk to my professors to determine what makes the most sense. After this semester I still need at least Organic 1 and 2, plus Biochem. When I contacted someone initially they also had a large list of other "recommended" classes which there is no way I will be able to do them all, which worries me.

Getting into Aerospace Phys directly as a civilian with an MS is fairly rare from what I've gathered. The majority are either PhDs or redesignated Aviators with relevant education. I will say this is a time to take advice from your advisor et al with a grain of salt. This is not likely a field any of them have any experience with or knowledge of. When I was in your shoes I got a lot of "oh yeah, I've heard there are physiologists in the military." Annnnd that's about it. As far as finding a way to fit in the courses you need with your lab work in a timely manner, sure they'll be helpful.
 
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