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Exercise Science Career Outlook

A scientific program that focuses on the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and biophysics of human movement, and applications to exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation. Includes instruction in biomechanics, motor behavior, motor development and coordination, motor neurophysiology, performance research, rehabilitative therapies, the development of diagnostic and rehabilitative methods and equipment, and related analytical methods and procedures in applied exercise and therapeutic rehabilitation.

To find out more about your major including potential areas and employers, required skills, job outlook, and median pay, please access the Occupational Outlook Handbook or the O*Net website.

Career Outlook

Explore the subsections below to learn more about the potential skills a student with a exercise science major can develop as well as the potential positions, areas, and employers that hire students with this degree. Please note that these are not exhaustive lists and should be used as a starting point.

Skills

As an exercise science major, students may develop or advance skills including analytical thinking, problem resolution, communication, collaboration, instructing, monitoring, service orientation, evidence-based research, and scientific writing.

Positions

Graduates with a degree in exercise science can work as Personal Trainer, Athletic Trainer, Sports Performance Coach, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Recreation Manager, Community Program Director, Group Fitness Instructor, Clinical Exercise Specialist, or Camp Director.

Areas

Graduates with a degree in exercise science can work within the following areas: cardiac rehabilitation, corporate wellness, research, sports medicine, physical fitness, healthcare, program development, sales, or exercise physiology.

Note: Students pursuing various post-baccalaureate degrees in careers such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, sports medicine, athletic training and physician assistant will require additional prerequisites.

Employers

Graduates with a degree in exercise science can work for health clinics, fitness centers, nursing/rehabilitation facilities, correctional facilities, resorts, cruise lines, community centers, colleges/universities, corporations, sports facilities, professional sports teams, or athletic associations.

Helpful Resources

Use the employment opportunity resources below to kickstart your preprofessional and or professional experience search. You may also identify a professional or student organization to join and network with individuals in your major and field. Please note that these are not exhaustive lists and should be used as a starting point.