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Bachelors In Exercise Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

UWHealth

Exercise Physiologist - PRN

Rockford, IL

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/Physiology/Kinesiology or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications * BLS certification. Required

UW Health

Exercise Physiologist - PRN

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24.24 - $35.14/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/Physiology/Kinesiology or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications * BLS certification. Required

UW Health

Exercise Physiologist - PRN

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24.24 - $35.14/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/Physiology/Kinesiology or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications: * BLS certification.

Northshore

Exercise Physiologist

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$26.61 - $39.92/hr

... • Bachelor of Science degree in an exercise science or a related field (e.g. Kinesiology or Physical Education). Emphasis in exercise physiology preferred. MS preferred • Current CPR ...

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Bachelors In Exercise Science information

See Illinois salary details

$37.8K

$60.6K

$84.8K

How much do bachelors in exercise science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for bachelors in exercise science in Illinois is $60,605.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,700.00 and $69,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a bachelor's in exercise science?

A bachelor's in exercise science opens up a variety of career paths related to health, fitness, and wellness. Graduates can work as personal trainers, fitness instructors, strength and conditioning coaches, or wellness coordinators. Many also pursue roles in rehabilitation settings, such as physical therapy aides, or continue their education in fields like physical therapy, occupational therapy, or athletic training. The degree provides a strong foundation in human physiology, anatomy, and exercise program design, preparing students for both practical and clinical roles in the health and fitness industry.

What types of entry-level positions are commonly available to graduates with a bachelor's in exercise science, and what does a typical day look like in these roles?

Graduates with a Bachelor's in Exercise Science often find entry-level roles such as fitness trainers, wellness coordinators, physical therapy aides, or exercise physiologist assistants. In these positions, a typical day might include conducting fitness assessments, developing exercise programs, leading group classes, and educating clients on healthy lifestyle habits. Collaboration with health professionals, such as physical therapists or nutritionists, is common, especially in clinical or rehabilitation settings. These roles provide valuable hands-on experience and can serve as stepping stones to advanced positions or further education in allied health fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a bachelor's in exercise science, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Bachelor's in Exercise Science, you need a solid understanding of human anatomy, physiology, exercise prescription, and fitness assessment, usually obtained through accredited coursework and practical experience. Familiarity with fitness testing equipment, health screening tools, and certification from organizations like ACSM or NASM is highly beneficial. Excellent interpersonal skills, motivation, and the ability to educate and inspire clients set top professionals apart. These skills ensure safe, effective exercise programs, client adherence, and positive health outcomes.

What is the difference between Bachelors In Exercise Science vs Personal Trainer?

AspectBachelors In Exercise SciencePersonal Trainer
Required CredentialsDegree in exercise science, certifications like ACSM or NSCA often preferredCertification such as NASM, ACE, or ISSA required
Work EnvironmentClinics, gyms, research settings, hospitalsGyms, fitness centers, private clients
Industry UsageAcademic, clinical, research, fitness industryPersonalized fitness training, client-focused

While both roles involve fitness and health, a Bachelors In Exercise Science provides a broad foundation in human physiology and health sciences, often leading to careers in clinical or research settings. A Personal Trainer focuses on designing and implementing fitness programs for clients, typically requiring certification. The degree offers more diverse career options, whereas personal training is more specialized and client-oriented.

Is a degree in exercise science worth it?

A degree in exercise science prepares individuals for careers such as personal trainers, fitness instructors, and rehabilitation specialists, often requiring knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment tools. It can lead to job opportunities in gyms, clinics, and sports organizations, with some roles requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree provides foundational skills for a health-related career, but job prospects depend on additional certifications and experience.

What can I do with a bachelor in exercise science?

A bachelor in exercise science prepares individuals for careers such as personal trainer, fitness instructor, strength and conditioning coach, or rehabilitation specialist. Graduates can work in gyms, sports teams, healthcare facilities, or pursue certifications like ACSM or NASM to enhance employment opportunities.

What can you do with a bachelor of exercise science?

A Bachelor of Exercise Science prepares graduates for careers such as personal trainers, fitness instructors, strength and conditioning coaches, and rehabilitation specialists. These roles often involve working in gyms, clinics, or sports settings and may require certifications like CPR or personal training credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Bachelors In Exercise Science jobs in Illinois?

For Bachelors In Exercise Science jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bachelors In Exercise Science jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Bachelors In Exercise Science jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Bachelors In Exercise Science jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Bachelors In Exercise Science job openings:

Bachelors In Exercise Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bachelors In Exercise Science job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,605 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Part-Time Health & Exercise Science Instructor

Belleville, IL • On-site

Southwestern Illinois College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Southwestern Illinois Collegeexternal

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

ANNOUNCEMENT
Southwestern Illinois College is accepting applications for part-time instructors for the Health & Exercise Science (HES) department. Part-time instructors are hired on an as-needed basis. Your application will be placed in a pool for review as part-time teaching assignments become available.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Part-time/adjunct faculty in HES are responsible for teaching the objectives for each course assigned, the assessment of student learning, and reporting of student progress as required by the college.
QUALIFICATIONS
Qualifications depend on the course taught. Please see below for minimum qualifications for the various courses taught in the Health and Exercise Science department.
HES 151 Personal Health and Wellness: Master's Degree in Health Science or Physical Education with concentration in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology.
HES 152 First Aid - Medical Self Help: Master's degree in Health Science, Health Education, Physical Education, or Nursing and Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor Certification.
HES 154 Nutrition, Exercise, and Weight: Master's degree in Physical Education or Nutrition Management with coursework in nutrition and exercise prescription.
HES 155 Physical Fitness and Wellness: Master's Degree in Physical Education or Exercise Science with an emphasis in fitness.
HES 156 Individual Exercise and Health: Master's Degree in Physical Education or Exercise Science with an emphasis in fitness.
HES 158 Consumer Health: Master's Degree in Health Science or Physical Education with concentration in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology.
HES 170 Introduction to Exercise Science: Master's Degree in Physical Education with concentration in PE Pedagogy, Exercise Science or Sports Management.
PAY AND HOURS
Salary varies based on educational level and number of units taught.
BENEFITS AND PERKS
Benefit availability and eligibility may vary from the summary listed below. Please visit www.swic.edu for more information.
• Retirement savings plan through State Universities Retirement System of Illinois and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) savings plan
• Eligibility for medical coverage as outline in the Affordable Care Act
• Employee Assistance Program, employee discounts, gym access, additional voluntary benefits and more!
WORK LOCATION
Health & Exercise Science department courses are offered at the SWIC Belleville, Sam Wolf Granite City and Red Bud Campuses.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications will be reviewed as assignments become available. See online job posting for close date.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Required application materials, such as resume, cover letter and references, should be attached to your application. Other required application materials i.e., unofficial transcripts, etc., should be attached after your application has been submitted ( official college transcripts must be provided at the time of hire). Go to your My Job Applications page from the careers home page of your account.
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