What Can You Do With an Exercise Science Degree?

Introduction

Exercise science is a field of study that focuses on physical activity and its effects on the human body. It combines aspects of physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and psychology to understand how exercise can be used to improve health and performance. As such, it has become increasingly popular in recent years as people have become more aware of the importance of physical activity for both physical and mental wellbeing. So what can you do with an exercise science degree? This article will explore the various career paths that are available to those with an exercise science degree.

Become an Exercise Physiologist

An exercise physiologist is a professional who specializes in understanding the body’s response to physical activity. They use their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry to develop exercise programs that are tailored to meet the individual needs of clients. To become an exercise physiologist, one must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field. Additionally, many states require exercise physiologists to be certified by an accrediting body such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

Job duties of an exercise physiologist may include designing exercise regimens, monitoring clients during workouts, providing advice and instruction on proper technique, and educating clients on nutrition and lifestyle habits. Exercise physiologists typically work in hospitals, sports medicine clinics, corporate wellness centers, or other healthcare settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an exercise physiologist is $49,140 per year.

Work in a Sports Medicine Clinic

Sports medicine clinics specialize in the treatment and prevention of athletic injuries. Individuals who work in these clinics must have a strong understanding of exercise science, anatomy, and physiology. In addition to being knowledgeable in these areas, they must also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills as they often interact with patients and athletes on a daily basis. A bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field is typically required to work in a sports medicine clinic.

Job duties of those working in a sports medicine clinic may include evaluating and diagnosing injuries, developing treatment plans, and prescribing exercises to help athletes recover from injuries. These professionals may also provide education to athletes on injury prevention and proper nutrition. According to Payscale, the median salary for a sports medicine physician is $150,000 per year.

Teach Physical Education

Physical education teachers are responsible for teaching students about the importance of physical activity and how to use exercise to stay healthy. To become a physical education teacher, an individual must obtain a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field and complete an accredited teacher preparation program. Additionally, some states may require physical education teachers to obtain certification or licensure.

Job duties of a physical education teacher may include planning lessons, leading activities, assessing student progress, and providing feedback to students. Physical education teachers typically work in schools, community centers, or other educational settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a physical education teacher is $60,320 per year.

Work in Corporate Wellness

Corporate wellness programs focus on improving the health and wellbeing of employees through exercise, nutrition, and other lifestyle interventions. Those who work in corporate wellness must have a strong understanding of exercise science and how to apply it to real-world situations. To become a corporate wellness specialist, an individual must obtain a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field. Additionally, some employers may require candidates to have experience in the field.

Job duties of a corporate wellness specialist may include designing and implementing wellness programs, providing education on nutrition and exercise, and evaluating the effectiveness of the programs. Corporate wellness specialists typically work in offices or other corporate settings. According to Payscale, the median salary for a corporate wellness specialist is $61,000 per year.

Become a Strength and Conditioning Coach

Strength and conditioning coaches are responsible for helping athletes improve their performance through strength training, conditioning, and nutrition. To become a strength and conditioning coach, an individual must obtain a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field. Additionally, some employers may require candidates to have experience in the field.

Job duties of a strength and conditioning coach may include designing and implementing training programs, monitoring athletes during workouts, and providing feedback and guidance. Strength and conditioning coaches typically work in gyms, schools, or other athletic settings. According to Payscale, the median salary for a strength and conditioning coach is $48,000 per year.

Develop Fitness Programs

Fitness program developers are responsible for creating exercise programs that are tailored to meet the individual needs of clients. To become a fitness program developer, an individual must obtain a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field. Additionally, some employers may require candidates to have experience in the field.

Job duties of a fitness program developer may include designing and implementing exercise programs, monitoring clients during workouts, and providing feedback and guidance. Fitness program developers typically work in gyms, health clubs, or other fitness settings. According to Payscale, the median salary for a fitness program developer is $51,000 per year.

Pursue Graduate Studies in Exercise Science

Those who pursue graduate studies in exercise science will gain a deeper understanding of the science behind physical activity and its effects on the human body. To pursue graduate studies in exercise science, an individual must obtain a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field and apply to an accredited graduate school. Depending on the program, additional requirements such as standardized tests or letters of recommendation may be necessary.

Job duties of a graduate student in exercise science may include researching topics related to exercise science, presenting findings at conferences, and teaching classes. Graduate students in exercise science typically work in universities or research centers. According to Payscale, the median salary for a graduate student in exercise science is $38,000 per year.

Conclusion

An exercise science degree provides individuals with a wide range of career options in the fields of health and fitness. Those with an exercise science degree can become exercise physiologists, work in sports medicine clinics, teach physical education, work in corporate wellness, become strength and conditioning coaches, develop fitness programs, or pursue graduate studies in exercise science. Each of these career paths offers unique opportunities and rewards that are sure to appeal to those looking to make a difference in the lives of others.

In conclusion, an exercise science degree provides individuals with a plethora of career paths to choose from. Whether you want to help athletes reach their peak performance, teach physical education to children, or develop fitness programs for corporate clients, there is something out there for everyone. With dedication and hard work, those with an exercise science degree can find success in this ever-growing field.