Careers in Exercise Science

Exercise Science is the study of the body's functional and physiological adaptations to movement.(source: American College of Sports Medicine). Career opportunities for individuals graduating with degrees in exercise science are numerous. Listed below are some of the common career opportunities available in Exercise Science.

Personal Training

Personal training is commonly known to be for private instruction. Personal trainers design a specialized exercise program based upon their client's health status and goals. Personal trainers can work out of a client's home or their place of employment or business.

Graduate Education and Research

A bachelor's degree in excercise science provides a foundation for graduate study and specialization in:

Exercise Physiology

Biomechanics

Sport Psychology

Motor Development

Sport Sociology

Recreation Administration

Rehab Medicine

Education

With a bachelor's degree in exercise science, one can go on to become a physical education teacher or coach at the elementary through secondary levels of school. One must be certified in the state in which they are teaching to do so.

Additional Career Opportunities in Exercise Science Related Fields

Sports Teams/Athletic Departments

Coach
Assistant Athletic Director
*Athletic Director
*Sports medicine specialist
*Team physician
*Sports Nutritionist
Strength/conditioning coach
Community recreation specialist
Sports Marketing
Sports Information

Hospitals/Rehabilitation Clinics

*Physical therapist
Rehab specialist
Director of Rehabilitation
*Occupational therapist
*Physician assistant
*Registered Nurse
Recreational therapist
Wellness specialist
*Chiropractor
*Massage therapist
Cardiac rehabilitation specialist
Recreation therapist
*Biomechanist
*Occupational therapist
Activities Director

Health Clubs/Training Centers

*Sports medicine specialist
General manager, Facility manager
Risk assessment manager
Injury prevention specialist
Exercise/Fitness Instructor
Recreational therapist
Health/wellness educator
*Exercise physiologist
*Orthopedist
Personal Trainer

Administration/Education/Business

Teacher
*College/University professor
Researcher
Department manager
Unit manager
Training supervisor
Medical equipment/supply sales
*Medical researcher
Account Executive, Special-Risk Insurance
Wellness program coordinator
Employee Fitness/Wellness Director
*Occupational Physiologist

* Indicates fields that require additional or graduate education.

Starting Salary

With an undergraduate degree and no experience - $25,000 - $40,000 depending on specific field and geographic location.