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Masters Exercise Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Software Developer VI

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$128K - $229K/yr

This person must be proactive, exercise sound engineering judgment, and have the confidence to make ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in computer science, information ...

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Masters Exercise Science information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$26

$57

How much do masters exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for masters exercise science in Virginia is $26.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $30.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money can you make with a master's in exercise science?

A master's in exercise science can lead to roles such as exercise physiologist or fitness director, with median salaries typically ranging from $45,000 to $65,000 annually. Salaries vary based on experience, location, certifications, and the specific work environment, such as clinical settings or fitness facilities.

What types of career paths can someone with a Master's in Exercise Science pursue, and how do these roles typically differ in daily responsibilities?

With a Master's in Exercise Science, professionals can pursue diverse career paths such as clinical exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, wellness program manager, or research scientist. Daily responsibilities vary by role; for example, clinical exercise physiologists often work in healthcare settings conducting patient assessments and developing rehabilitation plans, while strength and conditioning coaches design and implement training programs for athletes. Wellness program managers focus on creating initiatives to improve employee health in corporate settings, and research scientists conduct studies to advance the field. Collaboration with healthcare professionals, athletes, or corporate teams is common, and roles may offer opportunities for advancement into leadership or specialized research positions.

What kind of job can I get with a master's in exercise science?

A master's in exercise science qualifies individuals for roles such as exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, rehabilitation specialist, or fitness director. These positions often involve working in clinical, sports, or fitness settings and may require certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree provides a foundation for careers focused on health, performance, and injury prevention.

What Is a Master's Degree In Exercise Science?

A master’s degree in exercise science is the in-depth study of applied human physiology and its relationship with sports, fitness, nutrition, health, and overall wellness. These programs usually last about two year. Within your Master of Science (MS) degree, you not only hone your knowledge of athletic training but you also specialize in an area that interests you, such as strength and conditioning, sports nutrition, performance enhancement, psychobiology of exercise, sports psychology, and wellness and fitness. Each university offers a list of program concentrations. When you complete your degree, you may undertake leadership responsibilities within your workplace.

Is getting a master's in exercise science worth it?

A master's in exercise science prepares individuals for careers such as exercise physiologists, strength and conditioning coaches, and rehabilitation specialists, often requiring knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment tools. It can improve job prospects and earning potential, especially when combined with certifications like ACSM or NSCA. However, the value depends on career goals and the local job market.

What is the difference between Masters Exercise Science vs Certified Personal Trainer?

AspectMasters Exercise ScienceCertified Personal Trainer
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Exercise Science or related fieldCertification from organizations like NASM, ACE, or ACSM
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, clinical settings, fitness facilitiesGyms, fitness centers, private training sessions
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, healthcare, sports organizationsFitness industry, personal training businesses
Common Search & ComparisonEducational background, career options, advanced rolesTraining methods, certification requirements, client management

Masters Exercise Science provides a comprehensive academic background suitable for research, clinical, and advanced fitness roles, while Certified Personal Trainers focus on client fitness instruction and certification. Both roles are integral to the fitness industry but serve different career paths and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional with a Master's in Exercise Science, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Master's in Exercise Science, you need advanced knowledge in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and program design, typically supported by a graduate degree in exercise science or kinesiology. Proficiency with assessment tools like VO2 max testers, body composition analyzers, and certifications such as ACSM or NSCA is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and clear communication help professionals effectively coach clients and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering evidence-based interventions that enhance health, performance, and injury prevention.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

The highest paying jobs in exercise science typically include sports medicine physicians, exercise physiologists working in clinical settings, and performance directors in professional sports organizations. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and specialized skills, with salaries exceeding $70,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on the position and location.

What can you do with a master's degree in exercise science?

A master's degree in exercise science opens doors to a variety of careers in health, wellness, sports, and research. Graduates can work as exercise physiologists, strength and conditioning coaches, wellness coordinators, or continue into doctoral studies and academia. Many also find roles in rehabilitation, corporate wellness, or fitness management. The degree provides advanced knowledge in human physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition, making graduates valuable in both clinical and non-clinical settings.
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Masters Exercise Science jobs near you
Clinical Exercise Specialist

Clinical Exercise Specialist

Sentara Healthcare

Hampton, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Sentara Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 385 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 875 rated healthcare providers

Job description

City/State
Hampton, VA
Work Shift
First (Days)
Overview:
Sentara is hiring a Clinical Exercise Specialist I in Hampton, Virginia
This is a Flexi, Day shift opportunity!!!
Under the direction and guidance of a licensed clinician, the Clinical Exercise Specialist provides quality exercise and health education for patients assuring a safe, pleasant, and professional atmosphere. Administers therapy treatments under the direct supervision of therapists/providers. Provides age appropriate education for Client/participants and caregivers.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Health Science, Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Recreational Therapy, Physical Education or Masters in Athletic
Training with a concentration in exercise science required.
Sentara is an integrated, not-for-profit healthcare delivery system with more than 29,000 employees (including 1,375 physicians and advanced practice providers), 12 hospitals in Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina, and the Sentara Health Plans division which serves over 900,000 members.
We are recognized nationally for clinical quality and safety and are strategically focused on innovation and creating an extraordinary healthcare experience for our patients and members.
Join a team with a mission to improve health every day and a vision to be the healthcare choice of the communities we serve!
Keywords: Clinical Exercise Specialist, Physical Rehab Therapy, Outpatient, CES, Monster, Talroo-Allied Health
Benefits: Caring For Your Family and Your Career
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Adoption, Fertility and Surrogacy Reimbursement up to 10,000
• Paid Time Off and Sick Leave
• Paid Parental & Family Caregiver Leave
• Emergency Backup Care
• Long-Term, Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans
• Life Insurance
• 401k/403B with Employer Match
• Tuition Assistance - 5,250/year and discounted educational opportunities through Guild Education
• Student Debt Pay Down - 10,000
• Reimbursement for certifications and free access to complete CEUs and professional development
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Resources Plan
• Colleagues have the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus if established system and employee eligibility criteria is met.
Sentara Health is an equal opportunity employer and prides itself on the diversity and inclusiveness of its close to an almost 30,000-member workforce. Diversity, inclusion, and belonging is a guiding principle of the organization to ensure its workforce reflects the communities it serves.
In support of our mission "to improve health every day," this is a tobacco-free environment.
For positions that are available as remote work, Sentara Health employs associates in the following states:
Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

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