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What is Kinesiology?

Kinesiology is simply the study of human movement.  More specifically, kinesiology is the analysis of physical activity, sport, human performance, and recreation through the lens of biological, social, behavioral, and developmental sciences.  Students that graduate with a degree in kinesiology will specialize in one or more of the following areas of study:

  • Biomechanics
  • Sports Sociology
  • Recreation & Leisure Studies
  • Ergonomics
  • Physical Education
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Motor Control and Behavior
  • Philosophy of Sport & History of Exercise

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$47,340

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

21.70%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

14,500

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Kinesiology And Exercise Science Degree

The Columbia University is one of the world's most notable centers of research and, at the same time, a distinctive and recognized learning environment for undergraduates and graduate students in many academic and professional fields. It requires all university areas to progress knowledge and learn at the highest level and contribute to the world.

Columbia's Movement Science & Education degree program approaches the study of movement from a multi-disciplinary perspective. Its focus is on the practical applications of science and theory in the school, laboratory, clinic, and community, and students gain hands-on experience putting research into application. Its coursework highlights the scientific and theoretical core of physiology, neural bases of movement control, behavioral science, and pedagogy. The exercise training results on physiological processes, health, and physical well-being will be highlighted throughout the program's curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

It is located in an urban environment on a 300-acre tree-lined institution. Rice University takes its advantageous location to follow innovative research and create opportunities that contribute to our world's advancement. It develops close-knit, diverse college communities with a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for the best quality of life and value among private universities.

The Department of Kinesiology is a committed member of the American Kinesiology Association (AKA). The department joins in the AKA efforts to promote Kinesiology's discipline as a field of study and highlight its applications that affect all through research to enhance people's health. It also offers Sports Medicine & Exercise Physiology curriculum that provides a scientific foundation and then interfaces with application to the human body. The degree is the only academic specialization on campus that provides detailed instruction in human anatomy and human physiology and nutrition, biomechanics, motor learning, and exercise physiology, among other topics.

Acceptance Rate

8.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The University of Southern California is an anchor institution in Los Angeles known to be one of the worlds' top private research universities.  With USC's technology and international business, a global center for arts, diverse curricular offerings provide extensive interdisciplinary study opportunities and partnership with leading researchers in highly advanced environments.

The Master of Science in Biokinesiology with highlighting in Sports Science trains graduates to become multi-disciplinary team members for athlete performance and well-being in athletics, industry, and academics.   MS-Sports Science students will conceptualize all aspects of experimental design across several analysis levels and conduct sports-related research. The graduates will have a theoretical and practical knowledge of the concepts and tools used in sports performance assessment and interpretation concerning injury and top performance. They will use this knowledge in practical settings and communicate with multi-disciplinary teams focused on athlete performance and well-being. 

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of Michigan's Ann Arbor campus partners regularly with both the city and the community. Together with more than 85,000 students, faculty, and staff, it is impossible to function efficiently without the planning and collaboration of our partners in the greater Ann Arbor area.

The top rated School of Kinesiology offers students to study Kinesiology as undergraduate and graduate students focus on how physical activity affects the body and the overall well-being.  The field of kinesiology concentrates on the scientific study of human movement and how physical activity and sport influence the quality of life, community as the significance of physical activity and sport to society's health grows. The academic programs educate graduates who are in high demand in a wide variety of fields with world-class faculty are leading cutting-edge research and developing innovative solutions that are improving lives around the world. 5. University of Virginia 

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

In 1819, Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia and inaugurated a public university designed to advance human knowledge, educate leaders and improve an informed community. The University remains an iconic public institution of higher education, boasting nationally ranked schools and programs, a primary academic medical, diverse and notable faculty, center, and proud history as a well-known research university.  

The University of Virginia established the School of Education and Human Development and under that department is the top ranked kinesiology degree. This program advances the discovery, interpretation, development, dissemination, and application of knowledge that connects understanding of physical activity and human movement to human well-being. It also fosters innovation and diversity across many dimensions and prepares our students to engage in projects that address our increasingly complex and diverse society's needs. Students will have opportunities to shape the coursework according to personal career goals. Considering getting a master's degree in Exercise Physiology would take a two-year program of study (typically one year for UVa undergraduates who complete the B.S.Ed. in Kinesiology). 

Acceptance Rate

23.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Northeastern University forges educational, experiential, and research partnerships for 3,300+ corporate partners in 90 countries. The community has responded with extraordinary resilience, a characteristic capacity for reinvention, and a collective commitment to excellence. 

The University's Bouvé College of Health Sciences department is one of the nation's leading health science colleges.  It offers an Exercise Science degree program that provides its students with a dedicated on-site laboratory equipped with state-of-the-art technology that is perfect for applying coursework, improving practical skills, and conducting research. The option to take up the Master of Science in Exercise Science Program is also offered. It teaches a unique concentration in Physical Activity and Public Health that integrates critical proficiencies for a degree in exercise science suggested by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). The Master of Science in Exercise Science is also an option, and it requires students to complete 36 credits of coursework with an option to get a thesis. The National Academy of Kinesiology (NAK) ranked the UNC's Human Movement as one of the top five U.S. Science Ph.D. program doctoral programs in kinesiology based upon five years of data analysis. 

Acceptance Rate

18.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The University of North Carolina is the nation's first public University. It is nationally recognized, innovative teaching, a campus-wide spirit of inquiry, and commitment to public service continue the legacy of 1795.

The UNC-Chapel Hill's Department of Exercise and Sport Science (EXSS) is an academic unit under the university's College of Arts and Sciences.  It offers the Bachelor of Arts Degree, the Master of Arts Degree in Exercise and Sport Science, and Doctoral Programs.  The doctoral program offered is an interdisciplinary curriculum between faculty from the Division of Physical Therapy in Allied Health Sciences and the Department of Exercise and Sport Science.  In addition to these programs, the Department of EXSS administers the University's Lifetime Fitness Program, an education requirement for all undergraduate students. It serves the entire student body, faculty, and staff through the joint administration of Campus Recreation with the Division of Student Affairs.

Acceptance Rate

22.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The Wake Forest University was established in 1834 and is known to be the first college of the U.S. News rankings history to improve from the category as a Top 30 of the National Universities list in Regional University. It links research institution's facilities with a faculty engagement degree most often associated with small liberal arts colleges 

The Health and Exercise Science Department aims to advance knowledge through research and disseminate knowledge in this field of study through education and service to humanity. It is promoting health and preventing and treating disease through healthful behaviors, emphasizing physical activity and nutrition. It also offers a major in health and exercise science that requires 31 hours. The course of study is created to prepare individuals for careers in medicine and allied health, such as preventive and rehabilitative programs. The majority of graduate students pursue careers as physicians, physician assistants, nutritionists, nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. An option to pursue further education and or careers in dentistry, public health, health psychology, exercise physiology, and biomechanics.

Acceptance Rate

29.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Founded in 1871, Smith College opened for more than 140 years with just 14 students. Today, Smith is among the largest women's colleges in the United States, with students from 48 states and 68 countries. Furthermore, Smith has stayed true to its mission of providing women with the best education in the liberal arts and sciences.

The Exercise & Sport Studies (ESS) department is dedicated to improving the quality of life at Smith College by offering classes that consent to explore and better understand the importance of exercise and physical activity in daily lives. It also offers minor to students that want a comprehensive introduction to exercise and sport studies. This study is significant for students interested in exercise and sport and those considering graduate study or a career in exercise science; worksite, community, or other fitness programs; and the health sciences, such as physical therapy and medicine. It also requires students to take 24 credits, with courses chosen in consultation with an adviser.

Acceptance Rate

32.46

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The United States Military Academy is situated at West Point, New York. It offers students a fully funded, high standard four-year academic, physical, and mental education that develops personal character. It guarantees employability as a trusted leader and employs in a respected and rewarding profession as an officer in the U.S. Army.

The academy's mission is to educate, train, and inspire. They offer a robust Kinesiology Major to students that will encompass a broad area of performance issues that includes muscular and cardiovascular physiology, exercise adherence, skill acquisition, energy balance, and motor control. This program is a disciplinary focus of the Kinesiology major on physiological and mechanical aspects of human movement aligned with the Army's training and combat needs in Army Missions.  The areas of inquiry range in scope from the study of cells' molecular response to the whole body's response and adaptation.  The enrolled Cadets in the USMA who meet the requisite academic requirements may apply for the lauded honors program.  Qualified students will then take the following two courses: their 11th and 12th major courses. Each cadet will work one-on-one with a thesis advisor conducting applied research in human performance.

Acceptance Rate

12.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The Pepperdine University boasts top-ranked graduate and undergraduate programs, with separate schools dedicated to business, education, psychology, law, liberal arts, and public policy. It is also a Christian university dedicated to the highest standards of academic excellence and Christian values.

The kinesiology degree at PU offers curriculum that trains students for careers in applied or clinical health professions or graduate work in exercise science disciplines. Both degree options require extensive laboratory experience. Students are expected to participate in research in the discipline and or internship/volunteer venues about their particular choice of future professional aspirations. In graduation, students with a B.S. in Sports Medicine are equipped for successful entry into graduate school in the health sciences, medicine, physical therapy, physician's assistant, occupational therapy, and graduate work in exercise and sport sciences. Also, the department offers a minor in sports medicine that provides students interested in sports medicine to take several main courses while majoring in another discipline.

Acceptance Rate

31.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The University of Texas at Austin began with eight professors and 221 students 140 years ago. Today, UTA supports approximately 51,000 students per academic year with top ranked academic programs across 18 colleges and schools. Moreover, as Texas' leading research university, U.T. attracts more than $650 million annually for discovery.

Bachelor Of Science In Kinesiology And Health has five majors to offer for interested students. They can choose from applied movement science, health promotion, exercise science, behavioral science, sport management, and physical culture. For the majors, complete at least 36 hours must be in upper-division coursework, finish at least 120 semester hours of coursework. The applied movement science program is created for students interested in studying the human movement to help others develop physically active lifestyles, motor skills, and fitness. All students that opt to choose the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health must complete the following 12 semester-hour core. They are introduced to all aspects of the fields of kinesiology and health.

Acceptance Rate

31.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The Occidental College fully integrates the liberal arts and sciences with a global city's cultural and intellectual resources. It is situated on a 120-acre residential campus in the center of Los Angeles, the location functions as a foundation for putting theory into practice and ideas into action. Occidental College's mission is to provide a gifted and diverse group of students with a total educational experience of the highest quality. 

The Occidental College offers a degree in Kinesiology, which encompasses human development, anatomy, physiology, mechanics, and motor learning. Within each sub-discipline, students study positive and negative stressors that govern human performance. Also, discussions focus on numerous clinical conditions and the exercise, nutritional, and medical techniques used to prevent and control these problems. Students who opt to major in the kinesiology program will be expected to understand the human mind and body's complexity. The program also trains students for advanced studies in medicine, physical therapy, dentistry, kinesiology, and other related life science programs.

Acceptance Rate

36.69

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of Maryland - College Park is the state's top University and one of the nation's well-known public research universities located just outside Washington, D.C. A global leader in entrepreneurship, innovation, and research, it is home to approximately 40,700 students, 388,000 alumni, and 14,000 faculty and staff devoted to the pursuit of bold ideas. 

As a certified member of the American Kinesiology Association, the Department of Kinesiology dedicates its department to disseminating new knowledge associated with sports, physical activity, and physical education. The university's B.S. in Kinesiology degree aims to prepare scholars and researchers, physical education teachers, and sports specialists. It delivers education, sport, and rehabilitative services for the community. It gives students the chance to choose exercise science, sport management, and physical education degree programs at graduate and undergraduate levels. These programs will apply principles, knowledge, and methods from the behavioral, biological, medical, and physical sport and activity study.

Acceptance Rate

44.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of Georgia is where public higher education in America started and launched its great tradition of world-class public education. The University tackles some of the world's complex challenges, from resisting viral disease and producing a dependable food supply to progressing economic growth and strengthening cyber and global security.               

The Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology offered at the University of Georgia is a degree program that offers an experienced, scholarly understanding of human movement and physical activity. The program addresses cultural, historical, developmental, and biophysical bases for participation in movement activities for people of all ages. Students understand how human movement works, the factors that directly influence movement, and the benefits of an active, movement-oriented lifestyle. They can choose to take specializations in preparation for a specific career ambition through the program's hierarchical method to study human movement, allowing them to select upper-level courses that offer particular knowledge to pursue goals they have set.

Acceptance Rate

45.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

George Washington University is in the center of Washington, D.C., where it provides unparalleled access to leading multinational corporations, international institutions, global media outlets, and the governments of 177 countries via their resident embassies. It is a distinct advantage that has as much potential for international engagement within the footsteps of its doors. George Washington University's academic life is defined by its faculty and students' unique abilities to turn knowledge into action and take full advantage of G.W.'s vast access to world-class partnerships, policy-research initiatives, and one-of-a-kind learning opportunities.

The mission of George Washington University regarding the Exercise Science degree program is to present a formal graduate level in the science and theory of resistance training. The program that is offered is a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in exercise science degree. It provides students with careers in medicine and other health-related professions, including sports medicine, physician's assistant, exercise physiology and rehabilitation, physical therapy, nursing, sport psychology, health promotion, and fitness. The exercise science major students may select the premedical professional concentration, the pre-physical therapy concentration, or the athletic training/sports medicine concentration. It also may be taken without concentration.

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

St. Olaf College encourages students to aim high in examining a faith, liberal arts, and values and exploring a vocation in an inclusive, globally-connected community nourished by Lutheran tradition. Its education is the first step toward a lifetime of learning and doing, of seeking creative solutions to global challenges. 

St. Olaf's degree in Exercise Science program is the study of practical adaptations and physiological to movement. The systematic and rigorous study of these disciplines allows students to understand how and why people move and the factors restraining and enhancing the capacity to move.  The exercise science major is offered in St. Olaf's and is created for students interested in the advanced and specialized study of human movement's biophysical aspects. The institution's facilities are an excellent place in the exercise science major to prepare students for graduate school entry.  One of many disciplines is physical therapy and rehabilitation, biomechanics, occupational therapy, nutrition, exercise physiology, sports medicine, cardiac rehabilitation, and exercise prescription.

Acceptance Rate

47.51

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Syracuse University has five award-winning study abroad centers and international programs in 60 countries and educates students to gain global perspectives. It has 13 schools and colleges, 200 customizable majors and 100 minors, and online degrees and certificates that provide limitless educational pathways.

The top rated Exercise Science is an active department that encourages students to experience innovative clinical experiences and research using state-of-the-art equipment. Health and Exercise Science B.S. program in the Department of Exercise Science examines all aspects of human performance, including natural sciences, anatomy, metabolic, human physiology, muscular systems, testing protocols, and research. The minor in the Department of Exercise Science is also offered for students certifications in strength, personal/corporate fitness, and or graduate studies in applied exercise, kinesiology, exercise science or physiology, and physical therapy. Students will have the chance to study in 2 or more advanced areas of focus within exercise science and human performance. Exercise Science M.S. program in the Department of Exercise Science teaches students how physical activity affects physiological systems. It fulfills the academic requirements for professional certification.

Acceptance Rate

44.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Founded in 1873, Texas Christian University started as a progressive and personal college for men and women with an ambition to lead and learn. Nearly 150 years later,  TCU continues its mission is to educate students to act and think as ethical leaders and responsible citizens in the global community. 

Under the department of Kinesiology, TCU offers a broad undergraduate area of study such as B.S. Health & Fitness, BSAT Athletic Training, BS Physical Education – Strength & Condition, BS Movement Science, BS Physical Education, and B.S. Sport Psychology. It also offers a Graduate Program in Kinesiology, with its mission is to provide students the opportunity to understand the theoretical basis of human movement. Students can specialize in one of the sub-disciplines within kinesiology. They will develop strategies for solving practical problems and research questions and integrate movement-based principles into various activities in the laboratory, clinical, educational, and athletic settings.  The Department of Kinesiology proudly houses six research labs led by outstanding faculty in the respective areas. 

Acceptance Rate

47.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

In late 1880, brothers Charles and Augustus Storrs donated land and money to start an agricultural school in Connecticut. Then more than 130 years later, it is now known as the University of Connecticut. It is ranked one of the top 25 public universities globally, with ten schools and colleges at the Storrs campus.

The Department of Kinesiology at UCONN is known as one of the top Kinesiology departments in the U.S. The Exercise Science degree Program (B.S.) offers one undergraduate and two graduate degrees. Students who opt to take a major can learn a comprehensive understanding of human performance, exercise, and healthy living. This major prepares its graduates to take a graduate study of exercise science or healthcare professions, including medicine, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, and athletic training. They also act closely with an advisor in their area of interest and actively participate in research at the Human Performance Laboratory, where sophisticated technology is used to study questions dealing with physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, medicine, and biomechanics.

Acceptance Rate

49.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Baylor University is a private Christian university. It is a nationally ranked research institution that provides a community for more than 16,000 students by merging interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence. Its faculty is committed to teaching and scholarship to bear on real-world concerns.

The Health, Kinesiology, and Leisure Studies program under the Department of HHPR is created to be an adaptable degree program. Its thirty-six semester hours in HHPR courses, eighteen of which may be concentrated in one of the three areas, can be arranged so that acceptable preparation results for the general career areas of health, recreation, fitness, and sports. The Health, Kinesiology and Leisure Studies Curriculum offers a broad undergraduate background for students who have not made a definite career choice but want a university degree. Another feature of this program is that the general electives may manage to meet the student's choice of entrance requirements for a professional school. 

Acceptance Rate

45.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Founded March 13, 1897, the San Diego State University has grown to become a leading public research university. In its 121st year, it still can take pride in more than a century of achievement in education, research, and service.

The American Kinesiology Association is an institution that promotes and enhances kinesiology as a unified field of study and advances its many applications. Its' advocacy towards kinesiology at national and international levels is to support its member departments by providing leadership, resource materials, and educational opportunities for university administrators. It offers kinesiology as an academic discipline that involves studying physical activity and its impact on society, health, and quality of life. It includes areas of study as exercise science, sports medicine, sports management, athletic training, socio-cultural analyses of sports, fitness leadership, physical education teacher education, sport and exercise psychology, and pre-professional training for occupational therapy, medicine, physical therapy, and other health-related fields.

Acceptance Rate

34.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

27:1

The Ohio State University is recognized as the best Ohio's best and one of the nation's top 20 public universities. Its campus in Columbus has been the stage for academic achievement and a laboratory for innovation, having the top academic medical center and leading cancer hospital and research center.

At Ohio State, graduate and undergraduate students, kinesiology majors, learn exercise science, physical education, or sports management from well-known faculty in advanced facilities with more opportunities to expand their research experiences. The Health and Exercise Science department offers Bachelor of Science in Education, Exercise Science Education, Bachelor of Science in Education, Exercise Science Education and Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion, Nutrition and Exercise Science. It prepares students to educate the public on enhancing physical activity and health behaviors to prevent and treat chronic disease, influence others to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. Also, it improves other sport and exercise programs. 

Acceptance Rate

53.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

The top-rated research institution, the University of Tulsa, was founded in 1882 with its roots in the Presbyterian School in a small boarding school in Muskogee, Indian Territory. Today, it functions as an independent, nondenominational university that welcomes its students from many different beliefs and countries. T.U. Campus fosters a rich, various experience for students and faculty despite their religious or cultural background through a belief in mutual respect and understanding. 

The Kinesiology and Rehabilitative Sciences Department is under the College of Health Sciences where it consists of both athletic training and exercise and sports science programs. It offers four tracks leading to an exercise and sports science degree. Exercise and Sports Science is offered under the department where practitioners provide health care, technique and skills instruction, and performance improvement for the physically active population. The program is created on a foundation of scientific knowledge specialized in the human body and how it affects physical activity or physical stress. Its' students will increase the knowledge for this practice by studying how physical activity influences the human body. The department has a Master of Science in Athletic Training and an Accelerated program that offers both the Master of Athletic Training and B.S. in Exercise and Sports Science.

Acceptance Rate

35.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

This institution is located in the vibrant and diverse Tampa Bay region, with campuses in Tampa, Sarasota-Manatee, and St. Petersburg. The University of South Florida has more than 50,000 students pursuing graduate, undergraduate, specialty, and professional degrees. According to World Report's (U.S. News) 2021 Best Colleges rankings, it is claimed to be the fastest-rising university in America.

USF's Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program provides a highly interdisciplinary degree opportunity to students. It offers a valuable combination of hard science, humanities, and social science. This program offers classroom-based and distance instruction from departments and colleges throughout the university to prepare students for many careers. The students will have to choose specific career goals. They can either focus their studies in one of five concentrations: social and behavioral health sciences, biological health sciences, health management, health science information technology, or aging health sciences. This program's adaptable yet intensive curriculum lets the graduates be prepared for broad careers and clinical and non-clinical graduate programs.

Acceptance Rate

47.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

What is Exercise Science?

Exercise science is defined as the study of body movements that contribute to holistic wellness and fitness. Advances in technology and pharmacology have allowed individuals to live longer lives but the argument of quality of life is still suspect. As such, people of all ages seek out the professional advice of exercise scientists to help them achieve and maintain an optimal level of health. Understanding an individual's level of health can be assessed based upon:

  • Heart Rate & Body Heath
  • Capillary Physiology
  • Fat Fuels
  • Oxygen Consumption & Max VO2
  • Strength & Endurance
  • Nutrition & Wellness

Why Earn a Exercise Science Degree?

A kinesiology degree and exercise science major will prepare students with the an understanding of how muscles interact with the body on a scientific & practical level. Such programs will require students to study a variety of sciences including biology, biochemistry, anatomy, nutrition, exercise physiology, biostatistics, and biomechanics.

Through their coursework, students will learn to apply this knowledge in a structured form. Education in kinesiology will help guide individuals in the proper methods to exercising muscles, avoid strain, metabolism, and to increase the strength evenly throughout the body's muscle mass.

Top Degrees in Kinesiology and Exercise Science

College degree programs for kinesiology and exercise science span from associate degrees through doctorate degree programs with defined nuances for each type of degree program.  Online exercise science graduate programs can be found from a variety of accredited colleges and universities along with online undergraduate kinesiology degree programs.  Below you will find a breakdown of each program type along with nuance of each degree track to help you find the right program for you.

Kinesiology and Exercise Science Associate's Degree

An associate’s degree in exercise science and kinesiology is designed to help students help your employment opportunities when looking to enter the field or expand your vocational choices as a professional.  In either case, the general education course plus rigorous core curriculum will help prepare students to grow in their field.  Core classes will likely include: human anatomy, biology, chemistry, mathematics, health, chemistry, statistics, human physiology, and exercise physiology.

The different types of associate degree programs include an Associate of Science (AS) and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS).  The Associate of Science program is clustered around exercise physiology and biological sciences along with a number of required general education courses like philosophy, creative writing, and English composition.  An AS degree program may be considered if you are inclined to pursue a career as a personal trainer or similar.

The AAS degree program is very similar to the Associate of Science degree with an emphasis on technical skills required in the fitness training business.  The Associate of Applied Science degree track will include upper level course like foundations of kinesiology, motor behavior, biomechanics, communication, exercise psychology, and health coupled with an internship or practicum.

Kinesiology and Exercise Science Bachelor Degree

Degree options for a exercise science bachelor’s degree online or on-campus can be found in varied forms.  For example, kinesiology and exercise science degrees can be found in a school's course catalog as a Bachelor’s of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor’s of Science (BS).  In most cases, accredited colleges and universities will offer an exercise science degree program coupled with adjacent programs.  Meaning, it is rare to have a college offer a bachelor’s degree in just exercise science.  Rather, the majority of schools will offer exercise science with a concentration in similarly situated disciplines such as:

  • Athletic Medicine
  • Exercise Science
  • Physical Education
  • Applied Exercise Science, Health
  • Movement Science

In our years of research, we have discovered bachelor programs that are either narrowly focused, broad in nature, or highly technical in a related field of science.  If you are passionate about kinesiology and exercise science, make sure you invest the time to research school programs that work best for you and evaluate their curriculum for the best fit.  This approach will not only help you narrow down school options but give you a glimpse into the future knowing of what to expect.  As you migrate from general education courses to upper level courses in exercise science, the intensity and expectations will increase accordingly.

Kinesiology and Exercise Science Master Degree

A master’s degree in kinesiology and exercise science is known as an MS or Master’s of Science degree.  The Master’s of Science program are a clusters of  upper level courses in movement sciences coupled with associated research and real-world applications.  Akin to the bachelor’s degree program in exercise science, students will invest substantive time in class along with the requirement to complete a research project and/or internship along with a final presentation project or thesis paper.

Kinesiology and exercise science master's programs will typically last 1-2 years and will very likely be conjoined with an adjacent movement science.  Common areas of concentration for an MS program include:

  • Public Health
  • Research
  • Clinical Exercise
  • Physiology
  • Human Performance
  • Fitness & Wellness

Students with a Master’s of Science in exercise science will be equipped with the academic and practical prowess to launch a meaningful, rewarding career in a fitness center or healthcare organization.

Kinesiology and Exercise Science Doctorate Degree

A doctoral degree in kinesiology is a PhD program often seen as Doctor of Philosophy program in a course catalog.  The overriding objective of the PhD in exercise science and kinesiology is the prepare students to teach, consult, research, and lead organizations in a variety of academic, government, private, or public settings.  Doctoral students are expected to master not only their area of specialty but leverage knowledge from adjacent disciplines.

The primary areas of specialty within the Kinesiology Doctor of Philosophy program track include:

  • Cognitive and Motor Neuroscience
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Athletic Training
  • Psychosocial Areas of Physical Activity & Sport

With a large portion of the PhD program focused on the dissertation, students will invest substantive time focused on academics in applied sciences, research courses, and writing. The PhD program will take 2-3 years to complete including the dissertation depending on the number of credits taken at a given time along with the school-specific requirements.

A PhD in kinesiology will prepare students and working professionals to step into high level positions at fitness centers, hospitals, healthcare organizations, or universities.  Take the time to visit the programs below and learn more about the doctorate programs in kinesiology to learn more.

Employment Opportunities and Careers in Kinesiology

A career with a kinesiology degree may be pursued in a variety of fields, including sports management, athletic coaching, and physical education. Individuals may seek employment at a number of locations, and are capable of working with a variety of age groups and individuals as determined by their education.

Job opportunities are expected to grow over the next decade due to increased demand for preventative healthcare and physical fitness. As such jobs should be available to individuals, though they will be more readily available for those who live in highly or densely populated areas. Employers that receive public funding may have less growth due to budgeting.

Exercise Science Careers

The most common jobs for an exercise major varies widely depending on the specific degree program you have selected and the ensuing academic work and/or work experience. That being said, take a look at the following list as an attempt to help you envision a realistic vocational path after earning your college degree.

  • Fitness Managers
  • Personal Trainers
  • Health Coach
  • Trainer
  • Strength Coach
  • Corporate Wellness Manager
  • Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
  • Exercise Physiologist
  • Clinical Exercise Specialist
  • Dietician
  • Athletic Trainer
  • Occupational Therapist & Occupational Assistant
  • Recreation Therapist
  • Speech-Language Pathologist
  • Respiratory Therapist
  • Physical Therapist & Physical Therapy Assistant

Exercise Science Job Description

While each specific job title is not practical to illuminate here, we have culled the most relevant job description for a student with an exercise science degree. You will have a basis to help give you a viable window into a typical day of an ES. The job description of a kinesiologist and exercise scientist include the following set of tasks:

  • Prescribing an individualized exercise program for clients with details around equipment, intensity, duration, and frequency.
  • Communicating exercise plans, physiological testing, and testing processes to clients.
  • Developing a precise exercise regimen to help patients improve their overall standard of health in accordance with exercise standards and regulatory guidance. These standards can be measured through the utilization of flexibility, endurance, strength, blood pressure, resting heart rate, and circulatory functioning.
  • Evaluating a patients exercise regimen data to evaluate progress, risks, and opportunities to modify the program.
  • Providing emergency and non-emergency medical care to clients showing signs or symptoms of distress.

Top 10 Skills of an Exercise Scientist and Kinesiologist

In a recent survey performed by the United States Department of Labor, professional Exercise Scientists and Kinesiologists provided feedback on their day-to-day jobs and requisite skills for success. The survey illuminated a number of key pieces of information about the job of an exercise scientist and kinesiologist including skills, tasks, attributes, technical skills, ability, knowledge, work context, education, work values, and interests.

The survey revealed the top skills of an exercise scientist and kinesiologist to include the following:

  1. Critical Thinking The utilization of reason and logic to decipher what is being said and what a patient means in contrast to what you observe and conclude on your own merit.
  2. Active Listening Providing others with your full, undivided attention to understand their needs and asking great questions prior to giving advice or counsel.
  3. Written Communication Both written communication and writing comprehension are essential to an exercise science major.
  4. Teaching The ability to help others understand simple or complex issues or concepts through oral communication, written communication, and physical demonstrations.
  5. Deducting Reasoning The application of generally accepted rules to specific instances to illuminate issues at hand.
  6. Oral Communication The skills involved with speaking and oral comprehensive were found to be vital to the success of a kinesiology major in the workplace.
  7. Inductive Reasoning Gathering disparate pieces of information to draw conclusions or working theories.
  8. Quality Relationships - Developing and maintaining quality relationships with patients, participants, family members, vendors, third-parties, and peers.
  9. Empathy Helping others with medical issues, emotional support, personal assistance, and personal care.
  10. Physical Activities Ability and willingness to perform considerable physical activities with arms and legs such as lifting, climbing, stretching, walking, squatting, and jumping.

What Can You Do with an Exercise Science Degree?

A sampling of job titles of an Exercise Scientist or Exercise Physiologist include the following an array of job opportunities. Your career path may follow a traditional or non-traditional path. However, a list of common examples of exercise science major jobs include:

  • Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant
  • Kinesiologist
  • Director of Rehabilitation & Wellness
  • Bariatric Weight Loss Clinic Manager
  • Exercise Physiologist
  • Bariatric Weight Loss Counselor
  • Clinical Exercise Specialist
  • Cardiac Rehabilitation Program Director
  • Clinical Coordinator
  • Heart Failure Cardiac Rehabilitation Manager
  • Clinical Exercise Physiologist
  • Coordinator Cardiopulmonary Services
  • Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation

Exercise Science Salary & Career Outlook

Industry growth in kinesiology and exercise science is estimate to grow at at 13% clip through 2024 which is nearly twice the growth forecast for a composite of all jobs during that time frame. The average salary for individuals in careers related to kinesiology and exercise science is approximately $47,340 per year. While above the national average, this number may vary greatly based on experience, education, and location.

Individuals in areas with greater demand may see higher starting salaries. Education may not necessarily increase one's starting salary, though it does open up more job opportunities at higher levels. As such, it is often recommended to add work experience and relevant certifications to your degree to help solidify your career trajectory.

Exercise Science & Kinesiology Resources

Individuals interested in kinesiology and exercise science may also be interested in physical therapy, health and physical education, or sport and fitness administration/management. For additional information about Kinesiology & Exercise Science, read our Complete Career Guide in Exercise Science on our blog as a deep dive into this exciting career path.

National associations can be great sources of industry information and inspiration. A short list of quality national organizations include the following:

  • American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
  • National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
  • American Kinesiology Association (AKA)
  • Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)
  • National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
  • Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition (SCWN)

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