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Exercise Science Teaching Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Science Teaching information

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$39K

$62.5K

$87.5K

How much do exercise science teaching jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science teaching in the United States is $62,542.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $72,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest-paying job in exercise science?

The highest-paying jobs in exercise science typically include sports medicine physicians, exercise physiologists with advanced certifications, and clinical exercise specialists working in healthcare settings. These roles often require advanced degrees, specialized certifications, and extensive experience, with salaries exceeding $70,000 annually depending on location and expertise.

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

To thrive as an Exercise Science Teacher, you need a solid background in exercise physiology, kinesiology, and instructional methods, typically supported by a degree in exercise science or a related field and relevant teaching credentials. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, fitness assessment tools, and educational technology platforms is important for effective instruction. Strong communication, adaptability, and the ability to engage and motivate students are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure you can deliver high-quality education, foster student learning, and prepare future professionals in the exercise science field.

How much do exercise science professors make?

Exercise science professors typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education level, and institution type. Salaries can be higher with advanced degrees, research experience, and tenure status, and may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How does collaboration typically work between Exercise Science teaching staff and other departments in an educational institution?

Exercise Science educators often collaborate closely with faculty from health sciences, physical education, and athletic departments to design comprehensive curricula and interdisciplinary projects. This teamwork ensures students receive a well-rounded education that integrates theory, practical skills, and research opportunities. Collaboration may involve co-teaching courses, organizing joint workshops, or developing community health initiatives, providing a dynamic and supportive work environment. These interactions also offer faculty members opportunities to expand their professional networks and contribute to institutional growth.

What else can I do with an exercise science degree?

An exercise science degree prepares individuals for careers such as personal trainer, physical therapist, fitness instructor, sports coach, or strength and conditioning specialist. It also provides a foundation for roles in health promotion, rehabilitation, sports management, and research, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA and knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and exercise programming.

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

AspectExercise Science TeachingExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science or related field; teaching certification often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or related; certification like ACSM or NSCA often required
Work EnvironmentSchools, colleges, universities, community programsClinics, hospitals, sports teams, wellness centers
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, government programsHealthcare, sports, fitness industries

Exercise Science Teaching focuses on educating students about human movement, health, and fitness in academic settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists work directly with clients to improve physical health through personalized exercise programs in healthcare or fitness environments. Both roles require related credentials but serve different purposes: education versus clinical or personal health intervention.

What is exercise science teaching?

Exercise science teaching involves educating students about the scientific principles of human movement, physical fitness, and health. Teachers in this field may cover topics like anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and exercise program design. They often work in high schools, colleges, or universities, preparing students for careers in health, sports, or wellness. Exercise science teachers use lectures, labs, and practical activities to help students understand how the body responds to physical activity and how to promote lifelong health.

Can you be a teacher with an exercise science degree?

Exercise science degrees can qualify individuals to become physical education teachers, health educators, or fitness instructors, often requiring state certification or licensure. Additional credentials such as teaching certification, CPR certification, or specialized training may be necessary depending on the teaching level and location.
More about Exercise Science Teaching jobs
What cities are hiring for Exercise Science Teaching jobs? Cities with the most Exercise Science Teaching job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Science Teaching jobs? The most popular types of Exercise Science Teaching jobs are:
What states have the most Exercise Science Teaching jobs? States with the most job openings for Exercise Science Teaching jobs include:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Teaching 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 $62,542 per year, or $30.1 per hour.
Part-Time Health & Exercise Science Instructor

Part-Time Health & Exercise Science Instructor

Southwestern Illinois College

Belleville, IL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Southwestern Illinois College rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

ANNOUNCEMENT
Southwestern Illinois College is accepting applications for part-time instructors for the Health & Exercise Science (HES) department. Part-time instructors are hired on an as-needed basis. Your application will be placed in a pool for review as part-time teaching assignments become available.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Part-time/adjunct faculty in HES are responsible for teaching the objectives for each course assigned, the assessment of student learning, and reporting of student progress as required by the college.
QUALIFICATIONS
Qualifications depend on the course taught. Please see below for minimum qualifications for the various courses taught in the Health and Exercise Science department.
HES 151 Personal Health and Wellness: Master's Degree in Health Science or Physical Education with concentration in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology.
HES 152 First Aid - Medical Self Help: Master's degree in Health Science, Health Education, Physical Education, or Nursing and Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor Certification.
HES 154 Nutrition, Exercise, and Weight: Master's degree in Physical Education or Nutrition Management with coursework in nutrition and exercise prescription.
HES 155 Physical Fitness and Wellness: Master's Degree in Physical Education or Exercise Science with an emphasis in fitness.
HES 156 Individual Exercise and Health: Master's Degree in Physical Education or Exercise Science with an emphasis in fitness.
HES 158 Consumer Health: Master's Degree in Health Science or Physical Education with concentration in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology.
HES 170 Introduction to Exercise Science: Master's Degree in Physical Education with concentration in PE Pedagogy, Exercise Science or Sports Management.
PAY AND HOURS
Salary varies based on educational level and number of units taught.
BENEFITS AND PERKS
Benefit availability and eligibility may vary from the summary listed below. Please visit www.swic.edu for more information.
• Retirement savings plan through State Universities Retirement System of Illinois and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) savings plan
• Eligibility for medical coverage as outline in the Affordable Care Act
• Employee Assistance Program, employee discounts, gym access, additional voluntary benefits and more!
WORK LOCATION
Health & Exercise Science department courses are offered at the SWIC Belleville, Sam Wolf Granite City and Red Bud Campuses.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications will be reviewed as assignments become available. See online job posting for close date.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Required application materials, such as resume, cover letter and references, should be attached to your application. Other required application materials i.e., unofficial transcripts, etc., should be attached after your application has been submitted ( official college transcripts must be provided at the time of hire). Go to your My Job Applications page from the careers home page of your account.
Southwestern Illinois College
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