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By James Anderson•Last Updated September 19, 2025

Unlocking Career Opportunities with an Exercise Science Degree: Paths, Pay, and Practical Steps

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Introduction: The Versatility of an Exercise Science Degree

Graduating with a degree in exercise science opens the door to a diverse array of career paths. From working directly with clients to managing wellness programs or delving into healthcare, the possibilities are both broad and rewarding. As the nation’s focus on health and fitness grows, so does demand for professionals who can translate scientific knowledge of movement, physiology, and wellness into actionable programs and measurable outcomes. This article details the most promising jobs available, real-world requirements, salary expectations, and step-by-step guidance for pursuing each role.

1. Fitness and Personal Training Careers

Personal Trainer
roles are among the most accessible for new graduates. Trainers work one-on-one or with groups, developing customized fitness plans and offering motivation and education to clients. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, fitness trainers and instructors can expect a job growth rate of 14% from 2023-2033, with average annual salaries around $44,190 [3] . To improve job prospects, consider earning a recognized certification such as:

American Council on Exercise (ACE) Personal Trainer Certification
National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

Many employers require at least an associate or bachelor’s degree plus professional certification. To get started, research accredited certification programs, enroll in exam prep courses, and use job boards such as Indeed or your university’s career center to find open positions.

2. Health and Wellness Coaching

Health Coach
positions focus on helping clients achieve and maintain healthier lifestyles through behavior change, nutrition advice, and exercise programming. Health coaches often work in corporate settings, community health organizations, or private practice. To access these roles, you should:

Gain experience through internships in healthcare or wellness organizations
Complete a health coaching certification, such as those offered by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching
Network with local wellness clinics and corporate wellness program directors

Median salaries for wellness program managers and health coaches typically range from $45,000 to $70,000, with higher earnings possible for those with advanced credentials or leadership roles [1] .

3. Education and Academic Roles

Graduates who enjoy teaching and mentoring may pursue a career as a
Physical Education Teacher
or
Athletic Trainer
. Physical education teachers work in K-12 schools or at the collegiate level, promoting physical activity and instructing students in sports and fitness. Athletic trainers, meanwhile, provide injury prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation services, most commonly within schools, universities, or professional sports teams.

For teaching roles, you will typically need to:

Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program and obtain teaching licensure
Gain practical experience through student teaching or assistant coaching
Apply to local school districts or private institutions, often via district-specific job portals

For athletic training, most states require certification by the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) and, in some cases, a master’s degree [1] . Check your state’s department of education or athletic board for licensure details.

4. Advanced Clinical and Healthcare Professions

An exercise science background is excellent preparation for advanced healthcare roles such as
Exercise Physiologist
,
Physical Therapy Assistant
, or even
Occupational Therapist
. Exercise physiologists design movement and exercise programs to help clients recover from illness or manage chronic conditions. The average salary for exercise physiologists is about $59,620, with a projected job growth rate of 10.4% through 2033 [3] . Physical therapy assistants work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to implement treatment plans.

To pursue these roles:

Research graduate programs or certifications required for your chosen specialty (e.g., a master’s degree for occupational therapy)
Complete required clinical hours or internships
Check for state-specific licensure requirements (e.g., Louisiana requires licensure for exercise physiologists)

Search for accredited graduate programs via your state’s Department of Health or the American Physical Therapy Association.

5. Management and Administrative Careers

Those interested in leadership may consider roles such as
Fitness Center Manager
,
Wellness Program Manager
, or
Athletic Director
. These positions involve overseeing facilities, managing staff, budgeting, and program development. For example, a sports facility manager’s average salary is approximately $69,454 per year [4] .

To move into management:

Gain experience in hands-on roles (such as trainer or coach)
Seek out leadership opportunities within your organization
Consider a master’s degree in sports management or business administration for more senior positions
Apply through university job boards or national fitness organizations

Corporate wellness management is another growing field, as businesses seek to reduce healthcare costs and improve employee productivity. You can find these roles by networking with HR departments or searching for “corporate wellness manager” positions on major job boards.

6. Community and Nonprofit Sector Opportunities

Exercise science graduates are well-suited for nonprofit and community leadership positions, including
Nonprofit Wellness Program Director
and
Camp Director
. These roles emphasize promoting health and wellness at the community level, running programs for diverse populations, and often involve grant writing and public outreach. The median salary for a nonprofit wellness program director is about $60,922, and for camp directors, around $38,675 [2] .

To pursue a nonprofit career:

Volunteer or intern with local health organizations or camps
Develop skills in program management, budgeting, and community engagement
Seek positions through nonprofit job boards or by contacting organizations directly

Recreation and sports director roles in community centers or municipal parks also offer a chance to impact public health at scale.

7. Alternative and Emerging Career Paths

With the rapid growth of health tech, graduates can pursue roles in fitness technology, wearable device companies, or digital health startups. These jobs may involve product development, research, sales, or customer support tied to exercise science. Another emerging area is
Kinesiology
-the study of human movement-which is increasingly relevant in rehabilitation, ergonomics, and sports performance.

To break into these fields:

Network with tech companies focused on wellness products
Build expertise in data analytics or health informatics
Stay updated on industry trends through reputable health tech publications

Actionable Steps for Job Seekers

Whether you’re just starting or seeking advancement, here are practical steps for launching your career with an exercise science degree:

Assess your interests and strengths: Decide whether you prefer hands-on roles, leadership, research, or education.
Gain relevant experience: Internships, volunteer work, or part-time roles can provide valuable real-world skills.
Earn necessary certifications: Identify required certifications for your target job and enroll in accredited programs.
Network in your field: Attend industry conferences, join professional associations, and connect with alumni.
Search for positions: Use established job boards (such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn) and follow organizations of interest.
Prepare for interviews: Highlight how your education and experience align with the needs of the employer.

For roles requiring licensure or advanced degrees, contact your state’s Department of Education or Department of Health to verify requirements. If you are interested in a healthcare role, consult the American Society of Exercise Physiologists or the American Physical Therapy Association for accredited programs.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

An exercise science degree offers flexibility and access to a range of fulfilling careers. From fitness training to healthcare, management to nonprofit leadership, your educational background provides a solid foundation for promoting health and wellness in various settings. To maximize your opportunities, pursue certifications, network actively, and stay informed about industry trends. If you are considering further education, research graduate programs that align with your career goals and contact program advisors for guidance.

For the most current job openings, use your university’s career center or search established job boards with terms like “exercise science,” “fitness trainer,” “wellness coordinator,” or “exercise physiologist.” If you need further assistance, contact relevant professional organizations or your state’s licensing board for up-to-date requirements and guidance.