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Exercise Science Professor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The position will include an appointment as Professor with tenure in the department. Department ... Faculty expertise spans sustainable biomaterials science and engineering, packaging systems design ...

Exercise Science Professor information

See Virginia salary details

$123.4K

$141.3K

$156.6K

How much do exercise science professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science professor in Virginia is $141,277.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,400.00 and $150,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Professor vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise Science ProfessorExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D. or Ed.D.), research experienceBachelor's or Master's, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research labs, classroomsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers
Employer & IndustryHigher education institutions, research organizationsHealthcare, sports medicine, fitness industry
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic roles, teaching, researchClinical practice, health assessment

Exercise Science Professors primarily focus on teaching and research within academic settings, requiring advanced degrees and research experience. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists work directly with clients or patients in clinical or fitness environments, often holding certifications and focusing on health assessments and exercise prescriptions. Both roles share a foundation in exercise science but differ significantly in work environment and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as an Exercise Science Professor, you typically need a doctoral degree in exercise science or a related field, along with expertise in physiology, kinesiology, and research methodology. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and academic publishing platforms is crucial. Strong communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help engage students and collaborate effectively with colleagues. These competencies ensure high-quality teaching, impactful research, and leadership within academic and professional communities.

What are some common challenges faced by Exercise Science Professors in balancing research, teaching, and service responsibilities?

Exercise Science Professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including conducting research, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, and participating in service activities like academic committees or community outreach. Balancing these tasks can be challenging, especially during peak periods like grant submission deadlines or exam seasons. Successful professors typically manage their time carefully, set clear priorities, and collaborate with colleagues to share the workload. Additionally, staying current with the latest research while ensuring high-quality teaching and meaningful student mentorship requires strong organizational and communication skills.

What does an Exercise Science Professor do?

An Exercise Science Professor teaches undergraduate and graduate courses related to human movement, physiology, biomechanics, and health. They conduct research in areas such as physical fitness, sports performance, rehabilitation, and chronic disease prevention. In addition to teaching and research, they may mentor students, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to curriculum development within their department. Exercise Science Professors often collaborate with other professionals in health and wellness fields to advance scientific knowledge and best practices.
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Professor jobs in Virginia? For Exercise Science Professor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Exercise Science Professor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Exercise Science Professor job openings:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Professor job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $141,277 per year, or $67.9 per hour.
Assistant Professor in Exercise Science

Assistant Professor in Exercise Science

Mary Baldwin University

Staunton, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description
The Betty Gold College of Arts and Sciences at Mary Baldwin University invites applications for a full-time Assistant Professor of Exercise Science to begin August 2026.
The College seeks a teacher-scholar with a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching and advising, and enthusiasm for the environment of a small, student-centered liberal arts university. The successful candidate will have primary expertise in exercise physiology and must be able to teach Exercise Physiology, Exercise Assessment and Prescription, Exercise is Medicine, and Advanced Exercise Physiology at the core of the curriculum. The ability to teach across adjacent areas of the disciplinary core - including Biomechanics, Functional Anatomy, Motor Behavior, and Advanced Strength and Conditioning - is expected; candidates whose training is centered in physiology rather than anatomy or biomechanics are preferred. The successful candidate will advise Exercise Science majors, support students pursuing the 3+DPT articulation pathway to MBU's Doctor of Physical Therapy program, and develop and maintain clinical education partnerships in the region as part of normal faculty responsibilities. Experience mentoring undergraduate research or capstone projects is desirable. A PhD in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or a closely related field is required, with a disciplinary emphasis in physiology strongly preferred. Professional certification is preferred; relevant credentials include the ACSM Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP), the Exercise Physiology Certification (EPC, ASEP), or the NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA-CSCS).
Consistent with the mission and values of the institution, this position requires a commitment to a culture that promotes equity and inclusion. Applicants are expected to emphasize equity and inclusion in their interactions with students, staff, faculty, and the community at large.
This opening is not eligible for visa sponsorship; candidates must already possess U.S. work authorization that does not require employment-based visa sponsorship.
Essential Duties
In collaboration with The College of Arts & Sciences administration, faculty, staff, the Assistant Professor of Exercise Science will:
  • Teach standard course load per year which may include laboratory sections
  • Mentor and advise students with respect to course work and career goals
  • Support and Mentor students through senior capstone requirement
  • Develop and maintain clinical partnerships
  • Serve on college committees
  • Be engaged in the profession through research and/or participation in professional organizations

Required Qualifications
  • A PhD in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or a closely related field is required,

About Mary Baldwin University
Founded in 1842, Mary Baldwin University has a proud legacy of innovating to best serve our students as the world changes.
MBU is a small, coeducational university offering a range of degrees from bachelor to doctoral. We serve a diverse student population on our historic Staunton campus in the heart of downtown Staunton, Virginia, Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences in nearby Fishersville, and online.
MBU offers unique opportunities for our students to become leaders in the classroom,
community, workplace, and in their own lives.
Application
Applicants should send C.V., letter of application, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and names and contact information for three references to kjhuerth@marybaldwin.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Mary Baldwin University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer and especially encourages applications from minorities, women, and persons with disabilities.
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