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Exercise Science Professor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 Aug 17, 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise science professor?

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Exercise Science Professor jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Professor jobs in Virginia 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 August 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- Sport & Exercise Psychology

Bridgewater College

Bridgewater, VA • On-site

$57K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Bridgewater College invites applications for a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Health and Human Sciences (Sport & Exercise Psychology) position beginning August 10, 2026.
We are seeking an educator with expertise in sport and exercise psychology and experience in coaching or coaching education. The successful candidate will prepare students to understand the mental, motivational, and performance-related aspects of sport, exercise, and coaching in a student-centered learning environment.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Teach undergraduate courses in sport psychology, coaching, and related Health and Human Sciences areas based on departmental needs and your expertise
  • Connect course content to real-world coaching, athlete development, and performance settings
  • Advise, mentor, and recruit students interested in sport, exercise, health, and coaching careers
  • Contribute to curriculum assessment, program development, and continuous improvement
  • Participate in departmental, school, College, and professional service
  • Help foster a collaborative and engaging learning environment for students

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Earned terminal degree in a health sciences field with a specialization in Sport and Exercise Psychology, such as a Ph.D. or Ed.D.
  • Experience in coaching or coaching education
  • Ability to teach undergraduate courses in sport psychology and coaching
  • Strong communication skills and commitment to student-centered teaching

WHAT WE OFFER
  • Competitive salary
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Tuition benefits for eligible dependents
  • A collaborative academic environment

GENERAL INFORMATION: Bridgewater College was founded in 1880 as a coeducational liberal arts college to serve the local community. Located in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, just minutes outside of Harrisonburg and within driving distance of Charlottesville, Washington D.C., and Richmond, Bridgewater is home to a total student body of approximately 1,450 from 27 states and 19 countries. Bridgewater students study more than 60 majors and minors, in addition to four graduate programs and 10 pre-professional programs. Bridgewater College is an NCAA DIII school with approximately 40 percent of its students participating in intercollegiate athletics on 26 teams. To learn more about Bridgewater College, visit: bridgewater.edu
APPLY: Complete the online application.
DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Email humanresources@bridgewater.edu
COMMITMENT TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: Bridgewater College, an equal opportunity provider and employer, is a welcoming and vibrant workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, marital status, disability, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Non-Discrimination Notice: https://www.bridgewater.edu/legal/non-discrimination-notice/
ANNUAL SECURITY REPORT AND ANNUAL FIRE SAFETY REPORT: The Bridgewater College Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Safety Report summarizes policies on campus security and personal safety, crime prevention, fire safety, and crime reporting, and includes crime and fire statistics for the past three years:https://bridgewater.app.box.com/s/4ma6tlh30y8cat9un192ugo3dm6n29y9
To request a printed copy, please call 540-828-5761
E-VERIFY AND RIGHT TO WORK:
https://bridgewater.box.com/s/479yflkelh9xjxi32ekzbre2wer5fsmz
https://bridgewater.box.com/s/zqyfln3uwpfebahz4drdc37afh4du3im
Bridgewater College has partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to obtain resources to enhance the College's facilities, including the recent addition to and renovation of the College's primary athletic facility. The College is posting the following Notice as required by federal law for organizations which benefit from the USDA's funding program:
NOTICE
If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax at (202) 690-7442, or email at program.intake@usda.gov.