Is an Exercise Science Degree Right for Me?

What To Expect From an Exercise Science Degree

Exercise science programs can be defined as the study of human movement. They typically are offered as bachelor's degrees and master's degrees.

Bachelor's degree programs are usually about four years long. Coursework includes topics such as:

• anatomy
• biomechanics
• exercise physiology
• biology
• nutrition
• research methods

Master's programs provide more advanced degrees that lead to more advanced career opportunities. They typically take an additional two years to complete after you finish your bachelor's degree.

Whether you earn an undergraduate or graduate degree, there are a variety of exercise science careers and industries you could pursue. Some exercise science grads work in personal training; others work with sports teams or corporate wellness; still others pursue additional education and move into more advanced fields such as occupational therapy and kinesiology.

Common Exercise Science Degree Programs

As noted, exercise science degrees are commonly offered at the bachelor's and master's degree levels.

These degrees may offer various program concentrations, allowing students to better prepare for specific career goals and interests. Alternatively, exercise science may be offered as a concentration of other related degree programs.

Regardless, some common degrees related to exercise science include:

• health sciences
• sport science
• health promotion and wellness
• kinesiology
• sports medicine
• athletic training
• health and human performance
• biomechanics

By pairing your exercise science degree with one of these related educational paths, you can dive deeper into a particular area of exercise science and become better equipped for the career path of your choosing.

How To Decide If an Exercise Science Degree Is Right for You

If you're still on the fence about whether to pursue an exercise science degree, following the tips below can help you determine whether this is the right degree path for you.

Determine Your Career and Life Goals

Do you have a specific career path in mind? Want to have the opportunity to try different roles within the health and wellness industry? Perhaps your long-term goal is to become a doctor or other advanced health professional.

Taking an honest look at where you want to go in life will give you a better idea of whether an exercise science degree can help you get there.

Examine Your Skillset

To work as an exercise science professional, you'll need to have a variety of hard and soft skills. These skills include:

• good communication
• teamwork
• creative thinking
• cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• strength and conditioning
• injury prevention
• staff management
• customer service

Many of these skills will be taught as part of your training program; others will be skills you already possess or must develop on your own. Ask yourself how many of these skills you have or are willing to develop; this can help you determine whether a degree and career in exercise science are right for you.

Consider Your Financial Situation

A degree in exercise science can be expensive, and depending on your career goals, you may have to enter graduate school after getting your undergraduate degree. Consider the cost of getting your education in exercise science and ask yourself if it's worth it to you.

If you decide that it is, consider applying for the FAFSA and scholarships to receive financial aid. You may also be able to participate in a work-study program, receive financial assistance from your employer, or take advantage of GI Bill benefits if you have a military background.

Speak To an Exercise Science Professional

Want to know what it's really like to work in exercise science? Talk to someone who's already in the industry and who could answer the specific questions you may be asking.

Find out what it would take to speak with an exercise science professional in your area: see if you could set up an interview with a physiologist or ask to job shadow a fitness trainer at your local fitness center. Doing so will give you a better feel for what it's really like to work in exercise science.

FAQs About Exercise Science Degrees

Still wondering if an exercise science degree is right for you? Read on as we provide answers to some frequently asked questions you may have.

How Long Does It Take To Complete an Exercise Science Degree?

If you're completing a bachelor's degree in exercise science, it will take you about four years to graduate if you study full time. If you go on to get your master's degree, this will take an additional two years or so.

If you study part time, it may take you quite a bit longer to graduate depending on how quickly you progress through the required courses. On the other hand, if you have sufficient transfer credits, you may graduate in less time than average even if you study part-time.

What Are Common Career Paths for Exercise Science Majors?

A bachelor's or master's degree in exercise science can lead to many job opportunities, both entry-level and advanced. Some of the job titles you could pursue include:

• fitness instructor
• health coach
• physical education teacher
• personal trainer
• exercise physiologist
• physical therapist
• occupational therapist
• athletic trainer
• kinesiologist
• athletic director
• chiropractor

What Is the Difference Between a Kinesiology Degree and an Exercise Science Degree?

Kinesiology and exercise science are closely related; both focus on human movement. However, kinesiology is a broader field than exercise science. Exercise science is a subspeciality of kinesiology.

Exercise science focuses on the impact of exercise for improving wellbeing and athletic performance and preventing injuries; kinesiology takes a much broader view of the human body and movement, encompassing other areas related to exercise science such as sports medicine and athletic training.

Would a Master's Degree in Exercise Science Advance My Career?

Yes, a master's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field enables you to pursue more advanced and lucrative positions within the health and wellness industry. It may allow you to advance in your current career or to move into better positions elsewhere in the field.