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Exercise Science Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Science Professor information

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$124.5K

$142.5K

$158K

How much do exercise science professor jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science professor in the United States is $142,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,500.00 and $151,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

More about Exercise Science Professor jobs
What cities are hiring for Exercise Science Professor jobs? Cities with the most Exercise Science Professor job openings:
What states have the most Exercise Science Professor jobs? States with the most job openings for Exercise Science Professor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Professor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 31% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 65% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 34% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,500 per year, or $68.5 per hour.
Assistant Professor of Exercise Science (Tenure Track)

Assistant Professor of Exercise Science (Tenure Track)

Saint Mary's College

Notre Dame, IN

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

The Saint Mary's College Department of Biology invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Exercise Science beginning Fall 2026. 

Teaching, Research, and Service Expectations:

  • Teaching load of 9 teaching contact hours per semester (3 lectures or labs) that will include the following courses: Nutrition for science majors and non-majors, Anatomy and Physiology, introductory and upper-level courses in Exercise Science. 
  • An active research program that involves undergraduate researchers
  • Service to the Biology Department and broader campus community that includes attendance at meetings and faculty events, academic advising of students, and participation in Departmental and Campus committees according to the candidate's interests. 

Qualifications:

  • Doctorate in Exercise Science, Nutrition, Sports Medicine, Biology; or a terminal degree in a related field.
  • A strong commitment to inclusive pedagogy and to teaching undergraduates in a liberal arts context

For the initial application, please submit the following materials:

  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Cover letter of application that conveys your relevant experience and your interest in working at a Catholic, justice-oriented, women's, liberal arts college
  • Statement of teaching philosophy that addresses your commitment to fostering an inclusive classroom environment, considering students from a broad variety of backgrounds and learning styles
  • A research statement that describes your work and includes your plans to incorporate undergraduate researchers 

All materials should be submitted by February 20th.

After reviewing these materials, the search committee will invite a short list of candidates to participate in Zoom and on-campus interviews to take place in Fall 2025.If invited to progress to the next round of consideration, you will be asked to provide three letters of recommendation, and undergraduate and graduate transcripts.

Eligibility to Work: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and must not require visa sponsorship from the College, either now or in the future.
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