Different Types of Exercise Science Degrees and Their Salaries in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The demand for skilled professionals in exercise science continues to rise as society increasingly prioritizes health and wellness. Employment in this field is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, reflecting expanding opportunities in healthcare, fitness, and rehabilitation sectors. Selecting the right educational path plays a crucial role in securing a successful career and maximizing earning potential.

This article offers a comprehensive overview of the various types of exercise science degrees and the salary expectations associated with each, equipping readers with essential insights to make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures.

Key Points About Different Types of Exercise Science Degrees and Their Salaries

Associate degrees in exercise science generally prepare graduates for entry-level positions such as fitness trainers or assistant coaches, with average salaries around $35,000 to $40,000 annually depending on the region and employer.
Bachelor's degrees in exercise science open doors to more diverse career options like physical therapy assistants, athletic trainers, and exercise physiologists, where median salaries often range from $50,000 to $60,000 and offer stronger long-term growth prospects.
Master's degrees in exercise science or related fields significantly boost earning potential and job opportunities, with professionals earning between $65,000 and $80,000 on average while qualifying for advanced roles in rehabilitation, research, or clinical exercise physiology.

What Are the Different Types of Exercise Science Degrees Available?

Understanding the different types and levels of exercise science degrees is crucial for students to make informed decisions that align with their unique career goals and educational backgrounds. Each degree option offers distinct academic content and skill development tailored to specific interests within the field. To provide clarity, below is an overview of the main types of exercise science degrees and what differentiates each one.

These descriptions outline key focus areas and typical coursework involved with each degree type.

Associate Degree in Exercise Science: Provides foundational knowledge of human anatomy, exercise techniques, and introductory program design. Coursework typically includes basics in physiology, movement, and practical fitness skills, preparing students for entry-level roles and professional certifications.
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science: Offers a comprehensive study of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and research methods, with both classroom learning and laboratory experiences. Emphasizes understanding how exercise affects health and performance through evidence-based coursework and hands-on practice.
Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology: Focuses on the broad study of human movement in various settings, including both athletic and non-athletic environments. Coursework often overlaps with exercise science but places greater emphasis on movement analysis, biomechanics, and physical activity across the lifespan.
Master's Degree in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology: Delivers advanced coursework in physiology, biomechanics, research methods, and specialized topics such as corrective exercise and clinical applications. Includes opportunities for thesis research or supervised practical experience, deepening scientific understanding and research skills.
Master's Degree in Kinesiology: Expands on undergraduate knowledge with advanced studies in movement science, biomechanics, and the physiological basis of movement. The curriculum may include research design and advanced laboratory techniques, supporting roles in research, leadership, or further academic study.

Selecting the right degree often involves exploring options like the best accelerated associate degree programs to find a pathway suited to your educational timeline and goals.

What Specializations Are Available in Exercise Science Degrees?

Choosing a specialization is a crucial factor when deciding on an exercise science degree because it directly shapes the coursework, skills developed, and career outcomes. Aligning your education with specific career goals helps maximize your academic investment and prepares you for roles that best match your interests and earning potential.

Here are some common Exercise Science specializations you might consider as you explore your options:

Exercise Science: Exercise Physiology: Focuses on how physical activity impacts body systems at cellular and systemic levels. Students learn laboratory techniques, data analysis, and fitness testing protocols. Graduates often pursue careers in research, cardiac rehabilitation, or continue education in medicine or allied health fields.
Exercise Science: Biomechanics: Examines the mechanical principles behind human movement. Skills developed include motion analysis and injury prevention strategies, leading to jobs in sports performance, orthopedics, or ergonomic consulting.
Exercise Science: Strength and Conditioning: Prepares students to design training programs for athletes and the general population. Emphasizing exercise prescription and performance assessment, this specialization opens paths to coaching, athletic training, or fitness management roles.
Exercise Science: Sport and Exercise Psychology: Investigates mental and emotional factors affecting performance and motivation. Students gain expertise in psychological assessment and counseling for careers in coaching, wellness, or counseling services.
Exercise Science: Clinical Exercise Science/Specialist: Focuses on exercise application in healthcare settings, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities. Emphasizes clinical assessment and rehabilitation, preparing graduates for roles in cardiac rehabilitation, clinical exercise physiology, or physical therapy.
Exercise Science: Sport Management: Covers business aspects of sports, including administration, marketing, and facility management. Graduates often find employment in sport administration, event coordination, or commercial sport enterprises.

If you are looking for what's the easiest bachelor's degree in fields related to health and fitness, considering how different specializations influence your pathway can be a helpful first step.

What is the funding level for the federal WIOA program?

How Long Does It Take to Complete Each Type of Exercise Science Degree?

Understanding the duration of exercise science degree programs is crucial for students as it helps them plan their education and career timelines effectively. Knowing how long each degree typically takes can influence decisions about enrollment, finances, and balancing other commitments. Below is an overview of the main exercise science degree types and the typical time required to complete each.

The following list outlines the average lengths of study and factors that may affect the timeline for each degree type:

Associate Degree in Exercise Science: Usually takes about two years to complete when attending full-time. Part-time enrollment can extend this to three or four years. Many community colleges offer these programs, and some allow transfer credits that can shorten the timeframe. Online and accelerated options may also be available, providing flexibility for working students.
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science: Typically requires four years of full-time study. Factors such as taking summer classes or transferring previously earned college credits can reduce the time needed. Some schools offer accelerated bachelor's programs and online courses to accommodate different schedules.
Master's in Exercise Science: Often completed in two years following a bachelor's degree. Part-time programs can extend the duration to three or more years. Accelerated and online master's options are common, allowing students to finish sooner or balance work alongside studies.
Doctoral Degree in Exercise Science: Usually takes between four to six years to finish, including coursework, research, and dissertation work. Some programs may offer part-time enrollment or combined master's and doctoral tracks that influence the overall timeline. Online doctoral programs are rarer but growing in availability.

Are There Accelerated Exercise Science Degree Programs?

Yes, accelerated exercise science degree programs are available in the United States, offering students the opportunity to complete their studies in less time than traditional formats. These programs typically include condensed courses, continuous year-round enrollment (including summer terms), and integrated credit transfers where graduate-level coursework counts toward both bachelor's and master's degrees.

A common structure is the "4+1" or dual-degree pathway, allowing students to earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) and a Master of Science (MS) in exercise science within five years, which can save up to a full year compared to completing the degrees separately. Some universities even provide a three-year bachelor's track for high-achieving students, accelerating completion while maintaining rigorous academic standards. These options help reduce tuition costs and enable students to enter the workforce sooner with advanced qualifications.

Prospective students should carefully consider the intensified workload and strict eligibility criteria involved in accelerated programs. Maintaining a strong academic record-often a minimum GPA of around 3.25-is usually a prerequisite, along with successful completion of foundational coursework such as exercise physiology. These programs demand excellent time management and commitment since there is less room for part-time study or breaks. While accelerated paths offer faster entry into careers like exercise physiologist or strength and conditioning coach, the pace and pressure can be tough. However, the benefits often outweigh the challenges for motivated students who want to advance quickly in this growing field.

A graduate of an accelerated exercise science degree program shared that the journey was both demanding and rewarding. He described the workload as "intense from day one," with little downtime between terms, but appreciated the ability to take graduate courses early, which boosted his confidence and knowledge. Balancing a heavy course load with part-time work and clinical hours required strict discipline, yet he found that staying organized and focused made the accelerated timeline manageable.

Reflecting on his experience, he noted, "It wasn't easy, but finishing early gave me a head start in my career that I really value now." This fast-tracked approach provided him with hands-on experience sooner, making the challenges worthwhile and confirming that accelerated exercise science programs can be a fitting choice for driven students ready to embrace a rigorous but efficient path.

Are Online Exercise Science Degrees as Credible as Traditional Ones?

Online exercise science degree programs and traditional campus-based programs generally uphold similar academic standards by following curricula established by national accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Both formats require completion of core coursework in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and exercise prescription.

However, their delivery methods differ: traditional programs typically employ in-person labs and supervised practical experiences, while online programs often utilize virtual simulations, remote labs, and digital portfolios. To address hands-on learning, reputable online programs collaborate with local facilities for in-person internships or require students to document fitness activities and submit detailed exercise journals. Although online learning can effectively improve student health outcomes, some faculty express caution regarding authenticating students' practical work.

Recent trends show increasing employer acceptance of online exercise science degrees, especially when the degree is granted by a regionally accredited institution known for strong academic standards. The normalization of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic has shifted employer focus toward the reputation of the institution and the candidate's practical experience rather than whether study was completed online or in person.

According to a 2022 survey by the Society for Human Resource Management, 61% of employers now regard online degrees as equivalent to traditional degrees when accreditation and relevant practical experience are demonstrated. Ultimately, the credibility of an exercise science degree rests more on the institution's reputation and accreditation than on the format of learning.

How many new jobs are projected for Associate's degree jobs?

How Much Does Each Type of Exercise Science Degree Typically Cost?

Understanding the tuition differences across various exercise science degree levels is essential for effective budgeting and long-term financial planning. Knowing these costs upfront helps students anticipate their total investment and seek appropriate funding options. Below is a summary outlining the typical tuition ranges for each type of Exercise Science degree to help guide your educational decisions.

Associate Degree in Exercise Science: Tuition at public community colleges generally falls between $3,000 and $8,000 per year, making it the most affordable pathway. Prices vary depending on residency status and whether classes are taken online or on campus. Financial aid like Federal Pell Grants and state scholarships are commonly available to help reduce costs.
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science: Public in-state colleges average about $10,774 annually, while private institutions can charge around $30,830 per year. Online options may lower housing and commuting expenses but could add technology fees. Students often rely on federal loans, scholarships, and work-study programs to finance their education.
Master's in Exercise Science: Tuition costs vary widely, ranging from $5,325 at some online public universities to $20,700 at private schools. Public colleges average roughly $12,394 annually, whereas private institutions may charge about $28,445. Financial aid is available through federal loans, graduate assistantships, and sometimes employer tuition reimbursement programs.
Doctoral Degree in Exercise Science: Doctoral program tuition typically ranges from $454 to $709 per credit hour at public universities, with annual costs between approximately $9,000 and $20,000. Funding often comes from research or teaching assistantships, fellowships, and federal loans, helping offset these expenses.

When discussing the cost of an exercise science degree, a graduate of an Exercise Science degree program shared her perspective after completing her master's degree. She reflected on how she balanced tuition payments by applying for assistantships that not only offset tuition but also provided valuable teaching experience.

"It wasn't just about covering the fees; the assistantship helped me build professional skills I use every day," she explained. Moreover, she emphasized that careful financial planning allowed her to minimize loan debt, and the career opportunities that followed made the investment worthwhile. Her journey demonstrates how strategic use of available financial aid and campus resources can make graduate education more accessible and rewarding.

What Jobs Can You Get with Each Type of Exercise Science Degree?

The level of education in exercise science plays a crucial role in shaping the career opportunities available to graduates, as higher degrees tend to qualify individuals for more specialized and leadership positions. Different degree tiers prepare students for distinct roles and settings, influencing their potential job responsibilities and salary ranges. Below is an overview of common jobs associated with each type of exercise science degree.

Careers vary widely, so understanding typical roles at each educational level can help guide your decisions.

Associate Degree in Exercise Science: Graduates usually enter entry-level positions such as fitness trainer, group exercise instructor, or physical therapy aide. These roles primarily involve teaching exercise techniques, assisting with rehabilitation, and promoting health in gyms, community centers, or rehab clinics. Fitness trainers earn average salaries near $40,700 annually.
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science: A bachelor's degree prepares students for more specialized jobs including exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, and health education specialist. Exercise physiologists often develop fitness and rehabilitation plans for patients with chronic illnesses in medical settings, with median salaries around $50,280 and strong job growth projected by 2030. Strength and conditioning coaches focus on improving athletic performance, while health educators create wellness initiatives for various organizations.
Master's Degree in Exercise Science: Advanced degrees open doors to leadership roles like clinical exercise physiologist, corporate wellness coordinator, nonprofit wellness program director, or clinical research coordinator. These professionals design large-scale health programs, manage wellness teams, or oversee clinical research projects, with salaries frequently starting near $60,922 depending on position and location. Some may also transition into adjunct teaching or sports medicine specialties, reflecting a wide scope of career options.

Additionally, higher degrees in exercise science provide pathways to doctoral study or professional programs such as physical therapy and medicine. Those aiming for lucrative masters degrees will find exercise science offers diverse opportunities spanning client care, research, and program administration.

How Do Salaries Differ by Exercise Science Degree Type?

Degree level often plays a crucial role in determining earning potential in exercise science careers. Understanding how salaries differ by degree type can help students make informed educational and career decisions that align with their financial goals. Below is an outline of typical salary ranges for each major exercise science degree, highlighting the impact of education on career earnings.

Associate Degree in Exercise Science: This degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles like fitness trainers and group instructors, with average starting salaries around $40,000-$44,000 per year. Pay may vary based on location, certifications, and workplace settings such as gyms or community centers. Without further education or credentials, long-term earning potential is generally limited.
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science: Many careers, including exercise physiologists and athletic trainers, require at least a bachelor's degree. Median salaries typically range from $49,000 to $59,000, with the national average for exercise physiologists near $58,160 in 2024. Factors like industry, location, and additional certifications strongly influence pay. Advancement and higher salaries often depend on specialization or graduate education.
Master's Degree in Exercise Science or Related Fields: A master's degree can open doors to specialized or supervisory roles, such as sports performance specialists or applied researchers, with average salaries between $60,000 and $80,000. Those working in research, collegiate athletics, or wellness consulting may earn even more, particularly in competitive markets. Higher degrees also benefit job security and career growth.
Doctoral or Professional Degrees (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, research/academic roles): These advanced degrees typically lead to the highest salaries, with physical therapists earning a median of about $91,000 annually and research professionals averaging $72,000-$75,000. These roles require extensive education but provide the most significant earning potential and long-term career advancement.

For those exploring educational options, it may also be helpful to review information on what is a quick degree that pays well to better understand alternative pathways that balance time investment and earning potential.

Is There High Demand for Exercise Science Degree Holders in the Job Market?

Demand for exercise science degree holders continues to grow steadily in the US job market, driven by several key factors. Emerging technologies like fitness apps, wearable health devices, and telehealth platforms are increasing the need for professionals who can analyze data and develop evidence-based health and fitness protocols. Workforce requirements across hospitals, clinics, corporate wellness programs, and sports organizations further boost demand, especially as these sectors focus on managing chronic diseases, rehabilitation, and optimizing human performance.

Additionally, regional differences impact job availability and salaries; urban centers and university hubs typically offer more positions with higher compensation, while rural areas increasingly require specialists to support preventative health efforts. Students considering an exercise science degree may want to explore programs listed among the top online schools with national accreditation to ensure their education prepares them for these evolving career opportunities.

Certifications such as ACSM-CEP and NSCA-CSCS also play a significant role in enhancing employability and salary potential among graduates. Employment projections indicate approximately 10% growth for exercise physiologists from 2023 to 2033, with related fields like recreational therapy and fitness training expected to grow between 4% and 14%. Bachelor's degree holders typically earn annual salaries from $44,000 to $65,000, while those with advanced degrees or PhDs can expect starting salaries between $80,000 and $120,000, coupled with faster job placement rates.

Considering these trends, exercise science degree holders face a positive workforce outlook characterized by diverse career paths spanning clinical, fitness, and academic settings, supported by steady job growth and advancing industry needs.

What Factors Should You Consider When Picking a Type of Exercise Science Degree?

Choosing the right degree level in exercise science is a critical decision that directly impacts your career trajectory and personal life balance. Aligning your education with your long-term goals and circumstances ensures a more rewarding and feasible academic experience. To help make this choice, consider the following key factors:

Career Goals: The type of roles you aim for should guide your degree choice. Entry-level positions such as personal trainer or fitness instructor often require associate or bachelor's degrees, offering salaries around $40,000-$50,000. Specialized professions like clinical exercise physiologist or athletic trainer usually need a master's degree and can command salaries exceeding $85,000.
Time Commitment: Degree lengths vary, with associate degrees typically lasting two years, bachelor's degrees four years, and master's degrees requiring an additional one to three years. It's important to evaluate how much study time you can realistically dedicate, including clinical experiences or internships that may be part of the program.
Salary Potential: Higher degrees often unlock more lucrative opportunities. For example, median salaries for bachelor's degree holders hover around $46,000-$49,000, while master's degree holders can earn between $55,000 and over $85,000 in advanced roles.
Certification and Accreditation Requirements: Many exercise science careers demand certification through organizations like ACSM or NSCA. Additionally, attending an accredited program may be a prerequisite or strongly preferred by employers, influencing your degree program selection.
Job Market Demand: Assess the growth outlook for your target profession. Fields like strength and conditioning specialists and clinical exercise physiologists are growing rapidly, increasing the value of advanced degrees in these areas.

What Exercise Science Graduates Say About Their Degree and Salary

Kyle: "Completing my bachelor's degree in exercise science opened doors I hadn't even imagined. The comprehensive curriculum not only equipped me with scientific knowledge but also practical skills for rehabilitation and fitness coaching. Starting my career in a physical therapy clinic, I quickly realized how much my education helped me make a real difference for patients regaining mobility. The hands-on experiences and internships provided by the program built my confidence and professional network. I feel empowered and excited about the meaningful impact I can have every day."

Dean: "After earning my master's degree in exercise science, I gained a deeper understanding of exercise physiology that transformed my approach to coaching athletes. The advanced coursework challenged me intellectually and taught me to analyze performance data critically. This professional growth allowed me to take on leadership roles in sports training organizations and contribute to new conditioning programs that actually improve athlete outcomes. Reflecting on my journey, I'm proud to support the health and competitive edge of so many young athletes."

Naya: "Pursuing a doctorate in exercise science was both demanding and rewarding, offering me unique research opportunities to explore how exercise promotes mental health. This path pushed me beyond personal limits and helped me grow into a confident educator and advocate for wellness initiatives. Sharing my findings with the community and influencing fitness programs at local schools has been deeply fulfilling. My degree not only advanced my career but also allowed me to champion positive lifestyle changes for diverse populations. "

Other Things You Should Know About Exercise Science Degree Programs & Salaries

What is the average salary for someone with a bachelor's degree in exercise science?

The average salary for someone holding a bachelor's degree in exercise science typically ranges from $40,000 to $55,000 annually. Jobs such as fitness trainers or wellness specialists fall within this range, although regional demand and experience can affect earnings.

Can obtaining a master's degree in exercise science significantly increase salary potential?

Yes, obtaining a master's degree often leads to higher salaries, commonly between $60,000 and $80,000. This degree enables access to advanced roles like clinical exercise physiologists or research positions that generally offer better pay than bachelor's level jobs.

Do exercise science salaries vary by industry?

Exercise science salaries do vary by industry, with healthcare and sports organizations typically offering higher wages than fitness centers or community programs. For example, clinical roles in hospitals tend to pay more than entry-level personal training positions.

How does certification affect salaries in exercise science careers?

Certifications in areas such as personal training or clinical exercise physiology often lead to increased salaries. Certified professionals usually have a competitive edge and can command higher pay compared to non-certified workers in this field.