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$28

$47

How much do exercise science majors jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise science majors in the United States is $28.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Exercise Science Major, you need a solid understanding of human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and exercise programming, generally supported by coursework or a degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, fitness assessment tools, and certifications like ACSM or NSCA is often expected. Strong interpersonal communication, motivation, and teamwork skills help you effectively educate and inspire clients or work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for promoting health, enhancing performance, and ensuring client safety in various exercise science careers.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Majors vs Personal Trainers?

AspectExercise Science MajorsPersonal Trainers
Required CredentialsDegree in exercise science or related field; certifications like ACSM or NSCA often preferredCertification such as NASM, ACE, or ISSA; some states require licensing
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research labs, healthcare settings, fitness facilitiesGyms, fitness centers, private clients, community centers
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, healthcare providers, sports organizationsFitness industry, personal training businesses, gyms

Exercise Science Majors typically have a broader educational background and may work in research or healthcare settings, while Personal Trainers focus on client fitness and training programs. Both roles require certifications, but Exercise Science Majors often pursue advanced degrees or certifications for broader career options.

Is exercise science a useful degree?

Exercise science majors can pursue careers in fitness training, rehabilitation, sports management, and health promotion, often requiring certifications such as CPR or personal trainer credentials. The degree provides foundational knowledge of human physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition, which are valuable in health-related fields and can lead to diverse employment opportunities.

What can I do with a major in exercise science?

Exercise science majors can pursue careers as personal trainers, athletic trainers, physical therapists, fitness instructors, or strength and conditioning coaches. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise programming, and may require certifications or advanced degrees for certain positions.

What jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

Exercise science majors can pursue careers such as exercise physiologists, personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, rehabilitation specialists, and sports scientists. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may involve working in gyms, sports teams, clinics, or research settings.

What are Exercise Science Majors?

Exercise Science Majors are students who focus on the study of human movement, physical activity, and the impact of exercise on health, wellness, and athletic performance. This field covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and exercise prescription. Graduates often pursue careers in fitness training, physical therapy, sports coaching, rehabilitation, or research. Exercise Science programs provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience to prepare students for a variety of health and fitness-related professions.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

Exercise science majors typically need at least a bachelor's degree for most careers; however, some high-paying roles like fitness entrepreneurs, personal trainers with specialized certifications, or sports coaches can earn close to or over $200,000 annually through experience, reputation, and business ownership. These roles often require strong networking, business skills, and industry knowledge rather than formal degrees.

What types of entry-level positions are commonly available to exercise science majors, and what do these roles typically involve?

Exercise science majors often find entry-level roles such as fitness trainers, physical therapy aides, wellness coordinators, or exercise physiologist assistants. These positions typically involve working directly with clients or patients to develop and implement exercise programs, assist in rehabilitation, or promote healthy lifestyle choices. Daily tasks may include conducting fitness assessments, leading group classes, tracking progress, and collaborating with other health professionals. These roles provide valuable hands-on experience and often serve as stepping stones to advanced positions or further specialized certifications.
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Exercise Science Majors jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Majors job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,974 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Adjunct (per course) Instructor - Exercise Science

Adjunct (per course) Instructor - Exercise Science

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, IL • On-site

$2.7K - $3.6K/mo

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Adjunct (per course) Instructor - Exercise Science
The Exercise Science program in the School of Health Sciences at the University of Illinois Springfield has occasional need for adjunct (per course) instructors.
Minimum adjunct teaching requirements:
  • Undergraduate programs: Master's degree or higher in the discipline or subfield. If an applicant holds a master's degree or higher in a discipline or subfield other than that in which the applicant is applying to teach, that individual should have completed a minimum of 18 graduate credit hours in the discipline or subfield.
  • Graduate programs: Terminal degree determined by the discipline, with a record of research, scholarship or achievement appropriate for the graduate program.

Application deadline: Open
Application instructions: Click the "Apply Now" button, create or update your profile, complete theonline application, and upload a cover letter addressing the responsibilities of the position, current curriculum vita or resume, and unofficial transcripts. Contact information for professional references and official transcripts will be requested of finalists. Department/schools will periodically review applications, and you may not hear from them unless they have a need for someone with your qualifications and experience.
Importantnote: In order to maintain employment eligibility, adjunct faculty are requiredto complete mandatory annual employee training, including (but not limited to)Ethics, and Preventing Harassment & Discrimination. Adjunct faculty teaching online courses must successfully complete the Building Digital Community (BDC) self-paced course during their first semester teaching online to be eligible to teach additional online courses at UIS. BDC is offered free of charge through the Center for Online Learning, Research and Service (COLRS). Email COLRS (colrs@uis.edu) to enroll in BDC.
Salary: The minimum compensation for adjunct(per course) teaching at UIS ranges from $2700 to $3600. Minimum pay is basedon number of courses previously taught at UIS, and whether the instructor hasearned a terminal degree.
About UIS: Located in the state capital, the University of Illinois Springfield is one of three members of the University of Illinois system. The University serves approximately 4,000 students in 60 undergraduate programs of study, 41 minors, 44 graduate programs of study, 1 doctorate, 43 graduate certificates, coursework that leads to 8 ISBE endorsements. The academic curriculum offers students a strong liberal arts core, a wide range of professional programs, and close faculty interaction. Making the most of its location in the state capital, UIS is broadly engaged in public policy and service. Its diverse student body includes traditional, non-traditional, and international students. Twenty-five percent of majors are in 17 undergraduate and graduate online degree programs and the campus has received several national awards for its implementation of online learning. UIS faculty are committed teachers, active scholars, and professionals in service to society. The University emphasizes excellence in teaching, and faculty are also expected to provide a balance of scholarship and service activities to meet requirements for tenure and promotion. You are encouraged to visit the University web page at www.uis.edu and the program web page at https://www.uis.edu/exercise-science
About Springfield, Illinois: https://www.uis.edu/academic-affairs/about-our-springfield-community
Adjunct employment FAQ: https://go.uis.edu/adjunct-faq
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, and diversity. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds and identities. The University of Illinois System does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their real or perceived race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, genetic information, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a protected veteran and will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders and regulations. Visit University of Illinois Non-Discrimination Statement
The University of Illinois System conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment. Convictions are not a bar to employment. Background checks will be performed in compliance with state and federal law.
The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit Policy on Consideration of Sexual Misconduct in Prior Employment
As a qualifying federal contractor, the University of Illinois System uses E-Verify to verify employment eligibility
This position is not eligible for benefits.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
UIS employment in this role is not covered by Social Security, and instead, is covered by the State University Retirement System.
  • You will not pay Social Security taxes and your earning will not be on your Social Security Record. (Your record will, however, show your Medicare wages.
  • Your pension from the State Universities Retirement System may affect the amount of your:
  1. Social Security benefit and
  1. Social Security benefit as a spouse

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