Exercise science degrees (sometimes called kinesiology or sports science) prepare you for careers in fitness, rehabilitation, and sports performance. Available from associate to master’s level, accredited programs lead to roles like clinical exercise physiologist, personal trainer, or cardiac rehabilitation specialist earning $40,000-$85,000+ annually. Most positions require ACSM, NSCA, NASM, or ACE certification.
Do you thrive on movement and believe everyone should stay active regardless of age or physical condition? If so, an exercise science degree could launch your career in the rapidly growing fitness and health industry. Exercise science programs combine scientific knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates for diverse roles in healthcare, fitness, research, and athletic performance.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about exercise science degrees, from program options and career opportunities to accreditation requirements and salary expectations. Whether you’re considering an associate degree for personal training or a master’s for clinical exercise physiology, we’ll help you choose the right path for your fitness career goals.
Table of Contents
What is an Exercise Science Degree?
An exercise science degree is an interdisciplinary program that studies human movement, physical fitness, and the body’s response to exercise. Students learn anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and psychology to understand how physical activity impacts health and performance. These programs prepare graduates to design safe, effective exercise programs for diverse populations, from athletes to individuals with chronic health conditions.
Exercise science encompasses several related fields, including kinesiology, exercise physiology, and sports science. The curriculum typically includes both theoretical coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences, providing students with practical skills alongside scientific knowledge.
Core Curriculum Areas
- Human Anatomy and Physiology – Understanding body systems and their responses to exercise
- Exercise Physiology – How the body adapts to physical activity and training
- Biomechanics – Analysis of human movement and injury prevention
- Exercise Psychology – Motivation, behavior change, and mental aspects of fitness
- Nutrition Science – Role of nutrition in performance and health outcomes
- Research Methods – Statistical analysis and evidence-based practice
Career Opportunities and Salary Expectations
Exercise science graduates enjoy diverse career paths across healthcare, fitness, sports, and research sectors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in exercise-related occupations, with roles seeing 6-14% growth through 2032, depending on specialization, much faster than the average for all occupations.
| Career Path | Education Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (2022-2032) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | Associate Degree + Certification | $40,700 | 14% (Much faster than average) |
| Exercise Physiologist | Bachelor’s Degree | $50,840 | 13% (Much faster than average) |
| Athletic Trainer | Master’s Degree | $48,440 | 6% (Faster than average) |
| Strength and Conditioning Specialist | Bachelor’s Degree + Certification | $46,010 | 12% (Much faster than average) |
| Clinical Exercise Physiologist | Master’s Degree | $58,470 | 11% (Much faster than average) |
Popular Work Settings
Exercise science professionals find opportunities in various environments, each offering unique challenges and rewards:
- Healthcare Facilities – Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and medical fitness facilities
- Fitness Centers – Commercial gyms, YMCAs, and boutique fitness studios
- Sports Organizations – Professional teams, colleges, and athletic performance centers
- Corporate Wellness – Employee health programs and occupational health
- Research Institutions – Universities, government agencies, and private research companies
- Community Health – Public health departments and non-profit organizations
For detailed information about specific career paths, explore our comprehensive guide to exercise science jobs and career opportunities.
Exercise Science Degree Levels Comparison
Exercise science programs are available at multiple degree levels, each designed for different career goals and time commitments. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right program for your situation.
| Degree Level | Duration | Typical Career Outcomes | Median Annual Salary | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Personal Trainer, Fitness Instructor, Gym Manager | $32,000 – $45,000 | Quick entry into the fitness industry |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | Exercise Physiologist, Wellness Coordinator, Strength Coach | $40,000 – $65,000 | Comprehensive career preparation |
| Master’s Degree | 1.5-2 years | Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Research Specialist, Athletic Trainer | $55,000 – $85,000+ | Advanced clinical or research roles |
Associate Degree Programs
Associate degree programs provide foundational knowledge and practical skills for entry-level fitness positions. These programs typically include coursework in anatomy, exercise techniques, and basic program design. Graduates often pursue additional certifications from organizations like ACSM or NASM to enhance their credentials.
Common degree titles include:
- Associate of Applied Science in Exercise Science
- Associate of Science in Fitness and Wellness
- Associate in Kinesiology
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Concordia University St. Paul offers an MS in Strength and Conditioning. Begin or advance your health and fitness career with an exercise science degree from Concordia University, St. Paul.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Bachelor’s programs offer comprehensive preparation for mid-level careers in exercise science. Students complete extensive coursework in physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and research methods, plus internship experiences in professional settings.
Popular program titles:
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
- Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
- Bachelor of Science in Health and Fitness
- Bachelor of Science in Sport and Exercise Studies
Master’s Degree Programs
Graduate programs prepare students for specialized roles in clinical settings, research, or advanced practice. These programs often require thesis research or capstone projects and may include supervised clinical experiences.
Accreditation and Program Standards
Choosing an accredited exercise science program ensures you receive quality education that meets industry standards and prepares you for professional certification. Several accrediting bodies oversee exercise science programs at different levels.
Primary Accrediting Organizations
| Accrediting Body | Programs Covered | Current Programs (2024) | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s | 82 programs | Exercise science, exercise physiology |
| Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) | Bachelor’s programs | 8 programs | Kinesiotherapy, therapeutic exercise |
| American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) | Bachelor’s programs | 4 programs | Exercise physiology specialization |
Why Accreditation Matters
Accredited programs must meet rigorous standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes. Graduates from accredited programs often have advantages when seeking employment or professional certification. Many employers specifically look for candidates from accredited programs, and some professional certifications require graduation from accredited institutions.
The Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) is the largest and most recognized accrediting body, operating under the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. CoAES standards ensure programs provide comprehensive education in exercise science fundamentals while preparing students for diverse career paths.
How to Choose the Right Exercise Science Program
Selecting the right exercise science program involves evaluating your career goals, learning preferences, and practical considerations. Here’s a systematic approach to finding your best fit:
Key Factors to Consider
1. Career Goals Alignment
Different programs emphasize different aspects of exercise science. Clinical exercise physiology programs focus on medical applications, while sport performance tracks emphasize athletic training. Research your target career path and ensure the program curriculum aligns with industry requirements.
2. Accreditation Status
Verify that programs hold proper accreditation from recognized bodies like CoAES. This ensures educational quality and may be required for certain certifications or employment opportunities.
3. Hands-On Learning Opportunities
Look for programs offering laboratory experiences, internships, and practical training components. Exercise science is an applied field where hands-on experience is crucial for career success.
4. Faculty Expertise
Review faculty credentials, research interests, and professional experience. Faculty with strong industry connections can provide valuable networking opportunities and career guidance.
5. Certification Preparation
Many exercise science careers require professional certification. Choose programs that prepare you for relevant exams such as ACSM, NSCA, or NCHEC certifications.
Questions to Ask Prospective Programs
- What is the program’s job placement rate for recent graduates?
- Which professional certifications do graduates typically pursue?
- What internship and clinical experience opportunities are available?
- How are laboratory and practical learning components integrated?
- What research opportunities exist for undergraduate students?
- Do faculty maintain active professional practice or research?
If you’re also interested in nutrition and health coaching careers, consider exploring our master’s degree in nutrition programs, which complement exercise science knowledge with specialized nutrition expertise.
Popular Exercise Science Specializations
As the field of exercise science continues to evolve, specialized tracks allow students to focus on specific populations or applications. These concentrations can enhance career prospects and earning potential in targeted areas.
Clinical Exercise Physiology
Focuses on using exercise as medicine for individuals with chronic diseases, disabilities, or health conditions. Clinical exercise physiologists work in hospitals, cardiac rehabilitation centers, and medical fitness facilities. This specialization typically requires a master’s degree and offers strong job security in healthcare settings.
Sports Performance and Conditioning
Emphasizes optimizing athletic performance through strength training, conditioning, and sports-specific programming. Graduates work with professional teams, collegiate athletics, and elite training facilities. Certification through NSCA or similar organizations is typically required.
Corporate Wellness
Combines exercise science with business and health promotion principles. Professionals design workplace wellness programs, manage employee health initiatives, and conduct health screenings. This growing field offers opportunities with large corporations and consulting firms.
Exercise and Aging
Specialized focus on physical activity for older adults, addressing age-related health concerns and maintaining independence. As the population ages, this specialization offers excellent career prospects in senior living communities, rehabilitation centers, and community health organizations.
For those interested in broader health and wellness careers, our health coach career guide explores additional opportunities in the wellness industry that complement exercise science training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is exercise science a good major for pre-med students?
Exercise science can be an excellent pre-med major, providing strong foundational knowledge in human physiology, anatomy, and research methods. However, ensure you complete all required pre-med coursework, including organic chemistry, physics, and additional mathematics courses that may not be included in standard exercise science curricula.
What’s the difference between exercise science and kinesiology?
Exercise science and kinesiology are closely related fields with significant overlap. Kinesiology is broader, encompassing human movement in all contexts, while exercise science specifically focuses on physical activity and fitness. Many programs use these terms interchangeably, so review the specific curriculum rather than relying solely on program titles.
Do I need a license to work in exercise science?
Licensing requirements vary by state and specific career path. Personal trainers typically need certification from recognized organizations like ACSM or NASM rather than state licensing. Clinical exercise physiologists may require state licensing in some jurisdictions. Athletic trainers must be licensed in most states. Research your target career and location for specific requirements.
Can I get an exercise science degree online?
Many accredited institutions offer online exercise science programs, particularly at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. However, ensure programs include adequate hands-on learning components through local partnerships, intensive residencies, or hybrid formats. Laboratory and practical experiences are essential for career preparation.
What certifications should I pursue with an exercise science degree?
Popular certifications include ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association), NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), and ACE (American Council on Exercise). Choose certifications that align with your career goals and are respected in your target work environment.
How much can I earn with an exercise science degree?
Salaries vary significantly by specialization, location, and experience level. Entry-level positions typically start around $35,000-$40,000 annually, while experienced professionals in clinical or specialized roles can earn $60,000-$80,000 or more. Advanced degrees and certifications typically increase earning potential.
Is exercise science competitive to get into?
Most exercise science programs have moderate admission requirements compared to highly competitive fields like physical therapy or medicine. However, top-ranked programs and graduate programs may be more selective. Strong academic performance in science courses and relevant experience in fitness or healthcare settings can improve admission chances.
Key Takeaways
- Exercise science degrees prepare graduates for diverse careers in fitness, healthcare, sports, and research, with strong job growth projections
- Programs are available from associate to master’s levels, with different degree levels preparing students for different career paths and salary ranges
- Accreditation from recognized bodies like CoAES ensures program quality and may be required for certain certifications and employment opportunities
- Hands-on learning experiences, internships, and professional certification preparation are crucial program components
- Specializations in clinical exercise physiology, sports performance, corporate wellness, and exercise for aging populations offer targeted career paths
- Professional certification from organizations like ACSM, NSCA, or NASM is typically required for most exercise science careers
Ready to Start Your Exercise Science Career?
Take the first step toward a rewarding career in exercise science by exploring accredited programs that match your goals and interests. Browse accredited exercise science and fitness programs to find the right educational pathway for your fitness career aspirations.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Concordia University St. Paul offers an MS in Strength and Conditioning. Begin or advance your health and fitness career with an exercise science degree from Concordia University, St. Paul.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for exercise physiologists and related fitness occupations reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2025.
