Are you looking for a career in the health and fitness industry? If so, you may be wondering what you can do with an exercise science degree. This is a question that we hear all the time at our school. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common careers that graduates with an exercise science degree pursue. We will also talk about preparing for these careers and what courses you should take to maximize your chances of success!
What Are Your Degree Options In Exercise Science?
Associate Degree
An associate’s degree in exercise science is a two-year program that will provide you with the necessary foundations for working in the field of exercise science, as well as enough competence to obtain entry-level employment. The following are some examples of associate degrees in exercise science:
- Associate of Science Degree in Exercise Science
- Associate of Applied Sciences in Exercise Science
Bachelor’s Degree
A four-year bachelor’s degree in exercise science entails more liberal arts and science courses than an associate’s. You may also be able to take more hands-on classes, which is typical for any bachelor’s program. If you pursue this option, you may be able to choose a specific career path — for example, one in human performance, fitness training, or even corporate wellness.
There are two umbrella bachelor’s degrees in exercise science, but the one you pick may have a different name. For example, the University of the People provides a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
- Bachelor of Art in Exercise Science
Graduate Degree
If you want to pursue a career in exercise science, but don’t feel like your bachelor’s degree is enough, you can always get a graduate degree. A master’s degree in exercise science will provide you with the advanced knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field.
There are many different types of master’s degrees in exercise science, but the most common ones are the Master of Science in Exercise Science and the Master of Arts in Exercise Science.
What Career Fields And Top Jobs Exist For Exercise Science Graduates?
When it comes to career options, exercise scientists with an exercise science degree have a lot of alternatives. We’ll go through the many types of industries that employ people in exercise science in this part. Then we’ll talk about the top exercise science careers in general. Next, we’ll discuss specific jobs for each level of study.
Top Jobs In Fitness
Personal Trainer
Personal trainers work one-on-one with clients to help them achieve their fitness objectives. They assess client fitness, create a workout plan, demonstrate workouts and correct client technique, and evaluate progress. Some of the benefits of this job include a flexible schedule, the chance for independence, and a plethora of employment possibilities. Personal trainers earn an average salary of $37,256. A Personal Trainer Certification is quite helpful, and it’s likely a must-have if you want to work for a commercial fitness center. Ensure the certification program you choose is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), regarded as the gold standard in health and fitness. These criteria are frequently completed online.
Fitness Center Manager
The fitness center manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a fitness facility. This can include managing staff, developing marketing campaigns, budgeting, and membership sales. They may also be responsible for larger projects such as equipment purchases and renovations. Fitness center managers typically earn an annual salary of $50,103. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is often required, and experience working in the fitness industry is also beneficial.
Health Coach
A health coach is a wellness professional who helps clients make lifestyle changes that improve their overall health. This can include improving diet, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking. Health coaches work in hospitals, corporate wellness programs, and fitness centers. Health coaches usually earn an annual salary of $46,390. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is often required. Certification from a national organization such as the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching can also be helpful.
Top Jobs In Academic Environments
Physical Education Teacher
A physical education teacher is responsible for teaching students about the importance of physical activity and healthy living. They typically work in elementary, middle, or high schools. Physical education teachers earn an average salary of $58,950. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is required, and a state-issued teaching license is also necessary.
Athletic Trainer
An athletic trainer is a healthcare professional who works with athletes to prevent and treat injuries. They typically work in schools, colleges, or professional sports teams. Athletic trainers earn an average salary of $47,683. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is required, and certification from the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer is also necessary.
Top Jobs In Corporate
Wellness Program Manager
The wellness program manager is responsible for creating and overseeing corporate wellness programs. This can include developing fitness and nutrition initiatives, organizing health screenings, and arranging for on-site childcare. Wellness program managers typically earn an annual salary of $66,326. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is often required, and experience working in the wellness field is also beneficial.
Wellness Director
The wellness director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a corporate wellness program. This can include developing fitness and nutrition initiatives, organizing health screenings, and arranging for on-site childcare. Wellness directors typically earn an annual salary of $81,698. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is often required, and experience working in the wellness field is also beneficial.
Healthcare Consultant
A healthcare consultant is a type of business consultant who helps organizations improve their delivery of healthcare services. This can include optimizing staff schedules, streamlining patient records, and increasing efficiency in the billing process. Healthcare consultants typically earn an annual salary of $74,487. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is often required, and experience working in the healthcare industry is also beneficial.
Top Jobs In Community And Nonprofit
Camp Director
A camp director is responsible for the overall operation of a summer camp. This can include hiring and training staff, developing programs, and ensuring the safety of campers. Camp directors typically earn an annual salary of $45,000. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is often required, and experience working in the camp industry is also beneficial.
Recreation Director
The recreation director is responsible for overseeing the operation of a community recreation center. This can include developing programs, hiring and training staff, and ensuring the safety of patrons. Recreation directors typically earn an annual salary of $50,000. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is often required, and experience working in the recreation industry is also beneficial.
Nonprofit Program Director
The nonprofit program director is responsible for overseeing the operation of a community program. This can include developing programs, hiring and training staff, and ensuring the safety of participants. Nonprofit program directors typically earn an annual salary of $45,000. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is often required, and experience working in the nonprofit sector is also beneficial.
Top Jobs In Healthcare
Occupational Therapist
An occupational therapist is a type of healthcare professional who helps patients regain the ability to perform daily activities. This can include teaching patients how to use adaptive equipment, providing therapy, and developing home exercise programs. Occupational therapists typically earn an annual salary of $75,000. A bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy or a related field is required, and certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy is also necessary.
Exercise Physiologist
An exercise physiologist is a healthcare professional who helps patients improve their overall health and well-being through exercise. This can include developing fitness programs, conducting research, and working with patients one-on-one. Exercise physiologists typically earn an annual salary of $50,000. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is required, and certification from the American College of Sports Medicine is also necessary.
Physical Therapist Assistant
A physical therapist assistant is a type of healthcare professional who helps patients regain the ability to perform daily activities. This can include providing therapy, teaching patients how to use adaptive equipment, and developing home exercise programs. Physical therapist assistants typically earn an annual salary of $50,000. An associate’s degree in physical therapy or a related field is required, and certification from the American Physical Therapy Association is also necessary.
FAQ’s
How much does an exercise physiologist make?
An exercise physiologist typically earns an annual salary of $50,000.
What is the job outlook for someone with an Exercise Science degree?
The job outlook for someone with an Exercise Science degree is good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% growth in jobs in the field from 2016 to 2026.
What are some typical jobs for someone with an Exercise Science degree?
Typical jobs for someone with an Exercise Science degree include occupational therapist, physical therapist assistant, recreation director, and nonprofit program director.
What is the difference between an exercise physiologist and a physical therapist assistant?
An exercise physiologist is a healthcare professional who helps patients improve their overall health and well-being through exercise. A physical therapist assistant is a type of healthcare professional who helps patients regain the ability to perform daily activities.
What are some of the top jobs in healthcare?
Some of the top jobs in healthcare include occupational therapist, exercise physiologist, and physical therapist assistant.
Is a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science required for all of these jobs?
No, a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science is not required for all of these jobs. However, it is often required or preferred.
Conclusion
There are many different things you can do with an Exercise Science degree. The top jobs in healthcare include occupational therapist, exercise physiologist, and physical therapist assistant. These jobs typically require a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science or a related field. The job outlook for someone with an Exercise Science degree is good, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 13% growth in jobs in the field from 2016 to 2026.
If you’re interested in a career in Exercise Science, many different options are available. Do some research and figure out which option is the best fit for you and your skillset. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goals and have a successful career in Exercise Science.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring your options! Who knows where your Exercise Science degree will take you.
The sky’s the limit!
