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Masters In Exercise Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Masters In Exercise Science information

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$5

$26

$57

How much do masters in exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for masters in 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.

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

A master's degree in exercise science prepares individuals for careers as exercise physiologists, fitness trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, or rehabilitation specialists. Graduates can work in hospitals, sports teams, fitness centers, or research settings, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA and knowledge of exercise testing, program design, and health assessment.

What is a Masters in Exercise Science?

A Masters in Exercise Science is a graduate-level degree that focuses on the scientific study of human movement, physical activity, and how exercise impacts health and performance. The program typically covers topics such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and research methods. Graduates are prepared for careers in areas like sports performance, rehabilitation, fitness management, and research. Some programs also offer specializations in areas like strength and conditioning or clinical exercise physiology. Earning this degree can also be a stepping stone for further study or professional certifications.

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 certification and practical experience. It can improve job prospects, earning potential, and expertise in health and fitness environments, making it a valuable credential for those seeking advanced roles in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive 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 relevant graduate degree. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, fitness assessment technologies, and certifications like ACSM or NSCA are commonly required. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and motivational skills help build client trust and facilitate effective coaching or research collaboration. These skills are crucial for delivering evidence-based results, advancing careers in academia, healthcare, or fitness, and ensuring client or patient success.

Which MA is most in demand?

For a Masters in Exercise Science, careers such as fitness trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and rehabilitation specialists are in high demand. These roles often require certifications like ACSM or NSCA and involve working in gyms, sports teams, or healthcare settings. Demand is driven by increased health awareness and the focus on physical activity and injury prevention.

What types of career advancement opportunities are available for professionals with a master's degree in exercise science?

A master's degree in exercise science opens doors to a variety of advanced roles, such as clinical exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, or wellness program director. Many professionals use this degree to move into leadership positions, research roles, or specialized fields like cardiac rehabilitation or sports performance. With experience, some pursue certifications or doctoral studies to become educators or researchers in academia. Networking and ongoing professional development are key to advancing within this dynamic and evolving field.

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

AspectMasters In Exercise ScienceCertified Personal Trainer
CredentialsGraduate degree (Master's)Certification (e.g., NASM, ACE)
Work EnvironmentResearch, clinical, or academic settingsGyms, fitness centers, private clients
Industry UsageHealth, sports performance, rehabilitationPersonal fitness training, client coaching

While a Masters In Exercise Science provides advanced knowledge for roles in health, research, or rehabilitation, a Certified Personal Trainer focuses on designing and implementing fitness programs for clients. The degree offers broader career options, whereas certification is more targeted toward personal training services.

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 in injury management, rehabilitation, or athletic performance optimization.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Masters In Exercise Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Masters In Exercise Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Masters In Exercise Science job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,340 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Assistant Professor in Exercise Science

Assistant Professor in Exercise Science

Mary Baldwin University

Staunton, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 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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