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Exercise Science Degree Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Personal Trainer

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$16.50/hr

Exercise Science major and completion of EXSC 213 Anatomy and EXSC 214 Physiology * Enthusiasm and ... Thomas students must be degree seeking at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels. Students ...

Personal Trainer

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$16.50/hr

Exercise Science major and completion of EXSC 213 Anatomy and EXSC 214 Physiology * Enthusiasm and ... Thomas students must be degree seeking at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels. Students ...

Showing results 21-40

Exercise Science Degree information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do exercise science degree jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise science degree in Minnesota is $27.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is an exercise science degree worth it?

An exercise science degree prepares individuals for careers in fitness training, rehabilitation, and health promotion, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree can lead to job opportunities in gyms, clinics, and sports organizations, with salary potential depending on experience and specialization.

What can you do with an Exercise Science degree?

An Exercise Science degree can open doors to various career paths in health, fitness, rehabilitation, and sports. Graduates often work as personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, exercise physiologists, or wellness coordinators. Some pursue advanced degrees for roles in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or athletic training. The degree provides a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and movement science, which is valuable in both clinical and non-clinical settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with an Exercise Science degree, and why are they important?

To thrive with an Exercise Science degree, you need a strong understanding of human anatomy, physiology, exercise prescription, and often a bachelor's degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, laboratory equipment, and certifications such as ACSM or NSCA are commonly required for many roles. Excellent communication, motivational skills, and adaptability help professionals connect with clients and tailor programs effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for promoting health, maximizing physical performance, and ensuring client safety in fitness and rehabilitation settings.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Degree vs Personal Trainer?

AspectExercise Science DegreePersonal Trainer
Required CredentialsDegree in exercise science or related field; certifications may enhance prospectsCertification from organizations like NASM, ACE, or ACSM
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research labs, healthcare settings, fitness facilitiesGyms, fitness centers, private clients, outdoor settings
Industry UsageAcademic, research, clinical, and fitness industriesPersonal fitness training, client coaching, health clubs

While an Exercise Science Degree provides a broad foundation in human movement, health, and research, a Personal Trainer certification focuses on practical fitness coaching and client interaction. Both roles are integral to the fitness industry, but the degree offers more diverse career options, including research and healthcare, whereas personal trainers primarily work directly with clients to improve fitness levels.

What types of career paths can graduates with an Exercise Science degree pursue, and how do these roles typically interact with other professionals?

Graduates with an Exercise Science degree can pursue diverse career paths, including roles as exercise physiologists, fitness trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, wellness coordinators, and rehabilitation specialists. These professionals often collaborate closely with healthcare providers, physical therapists, nutritionists, and athletic coaches to design effective fitness or rehabilitation programs. The collaborative nature of the work encourages continuous learning and exposes professionals to multidisciplinary teams, which can open doors to advanced roles in clinical, corporate wellness, or sports performance settings. Such teamwork also helps develop strong communication and leadership skills, valuable for career advancement.
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Exercise Science Degree jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Exercise Science Degree job openings:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Degree job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 53% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,760 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Exercise Specialist

Plus One Health Management

Eden Prairie, MN โ€ข On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Overview:
We are looking for an energetic and enthusiastic Exercise Specialist who is passionate about supporting healthy lifestyle habits to work at a high-profile company's fitness center located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.
What you will do:
  • Conduct ongoing fitness consultations for participants, including movement screens, needs analyses and goal setting, in order to recommend appropriate fitness programming and complementary wellness services.
  • Develop comprehensive progressive fitness programming to support and motivate participants and ensure a positive overall experience.
  • Monitor, engage and instruct participants in the fitness center on the safe and effective use of cardiovascular, flexibility and strength training equipment within the facility.
  • Educate participants on clinically proven health and fitness information, available fitness and engagement programming and complementary wellness services.
  • Complete internal development courses through a learning management platform.
  • Maintain positive customer and client experience by providing the highest quality of service.

What we are looking for:
  • A bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology or a related field, or a NCCA-accredited personal training certification.
  • Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications.
  • Industry knowledge in exercise testing (assessments) and exercise prescription (program design), and ability to operate various fitness tools and equipment.
  • Ability to network, engage and interact with all clients, guests and members.
  • Competence with Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

About Us:
Plus One, part of the Optum Workplace Well-being portfolio of services, provides fitness and well-being services to clients across a broad range of industries, driving employee engagement in health and wellness programs. These services include fitness, nutrition, ergonomics, wellness coaching and health promotion. Our team members believe that the most effective way to help people adopt a healthier lifestyle is through personal connections infused with hospitality, empathy and a lot of fun.
Perks of working at Plus One, an Optum company*:
Health and financial:
  • Medical plan choices with Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
  • Dental and Vision coverage plans
  • 401(k) Retirement & Savings Plan
  • Life Insurance (team member, spouse and dependents)
  • Short and Long Term Disability Plans
  • Accident & Critical Illness Insurance
  • Transportation and Parking Plans
  • Paid parental leave

Well-being:
  • Paid time off
  • Wellness rewards program
  • Free memberships to various fitness facilities and wellness subscriptions
  • 24/7 health and wellness support through the Employee Assistance program
  • Entertainment and consumer discounts
  • Inclusion and Belonging Council

Growth and development:
  • Free professional development courses through internal learning management systems
  • Discounted certifications through industry leading agencies
  • Free CPR/AED certifications
  • Free continuing education courses and credits
  • Employee Referral Reward program

*Please note, some of the benefits listed above are only available to team members who work full time hours.
Equal opportunity statement
Plus One, an Optum company, is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Plus One is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.
For residents of California, Colorado, Connecticut, New York City, and Washington only: The hourly rate for this position ranges from $15 to $25. Pay is based on several factors including, but not limited to, education, work experience, certifications, geographic differentials, and other business and organizational needs. In addition to the hourly rate, Plus One offers a comprehensive benefits package (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements), which includes health insurance, life and disability benefits, 401(k) plan, and paid time off. Plus One, an Optum Company, adheres to all federal, state, and local minimum wage requirements.