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Masters In Exercise Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology. * Certification: Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 6 months of hire. Preferred Qualifications: * American ...

Sr. Research Scientist

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

Ph.D., ScD. or equivalent in Biological Science, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Rehabilitation Science, Physiology, Public Health, or a closely related field. * Experience: Four (4) years ...

Physical Therapy Technician

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.25/hr

Requirements Required Skills/Abilities: • Bachelor's degree (or enrolled in final year) in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Biology, or related field; OR completion of a certified ...

Opportunity to utilize interest/education in exercise science * Direct track to Lead Stretch Practitioner or Management * Flexible scheduling for session bookings * Commission, renewal bonuses, and ...

Physical Therapy Technician

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.25/hr

Required Skills/Abilities: · Bachelor's degree (or enrolled in final year) in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Biology, or related field; OR completion of a certified technical ...

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Masters In Exercise Science information

See Virginia salary details

$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.
Exercise Physiologist Cardiac Rehab PRN

Exercise Physiologist Cardiac Rehab PRN

Inova

Leesburg, VA • On-site

$22.76 - $37.10/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 250 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 884 rated healthcare providers


Job description


Inova Loudoun Hospital is looking for a dedicated Exercise Physiologist to join the Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab team. This position is PRN or as needed for intermittent coverage needs, working a varied schedule to include weekdays, weekends and holidays as needed by the department.
Come join our cohesive multidisciplinary team of professionals working together to serve our patient population. Ideal candidates enjoy supporting lifestyle management and education in a clinical setting for individuals recovering from a cardiac or pulmonary condition. This is a great opportunity to surround yourself with excellent professionals in the field! Click here to learn more about our department.
Inova is consistently ranked a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.
Featured Benefits:
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.

Exercise Physiologist 1 Job Responsibilities:
  • The Exercise Physiologist 1 works on a multidisciplinary team to care for patients and develop comprehensive care plans of agreed-upon goals.
  • Administers or supports diagnostics testing to support diagnosis and treatment plans and participates in a community effort to support chronic disease
  • Develops exercise prescription and risk factor modification by incorporating comorbidity and musculoskeletal disorders, per established program (ACCVPR, ACSM, ATS, ACC, NASM) standards and guidelines, as evidenced by random chart review.
  • May include evaluating patient responses to prescribed treatment plans, testing, and procedures and developing ongoing plans.
  • May perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology.
  • Certification: Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 6 months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • American College of Sports Medicine - Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM CEP) for Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehab Programs; or Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (AACVPR CCRP)
  • Internship experience in a Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehab setting
  • Experience as an Exercise Physiologist in a Hospital Setting

About Us
We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare.
Inova Health System is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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