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Masters In Exercise Science Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Physical Therapy Technician

Cary, NC · On-site

$13 - $14.75/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 ...

Physical Therapy Technician

Cary, NC · On-site

$13 - $14.75/hr

... backgrounds in exercise science, kinesiology, athletic training, or related health sciences. Location: Cary, NC Supervisory Responsibilities: • None. Duties/Responsibilities: Reasonable ...

Stretch Practitioner

Cary, NC · On-site

$15 - $23/hr

Background or experience in exercise science or bodywork (preferred) * Able to complete hands-on and virtual training * Desire to help others achieve their lifestyle goals * Reliable transportation ...

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 ...

General Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

AA or BS in Exercise Science or Athletic Training or a Related Field with Anatomy & Physiology coursework * Fitness industry experience * Sales experience or willing to learn sales * Energetic ...

General Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

AA or BS in Exercise Science or Athletic Training or a Related Field with Anatomy & Physiology coursework * Fitness industry experience * Sales experience or willing to learn sales * Energetic ...

Stretch Practitioner

Cary, NC · On-site

$15 - $23/hr

Background or experience in exercise science or bodywork (preferred) * Able to complete hands-on and virtual training * Desire to help others achieve their lifestyle goals * Reliable transportation ...

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field. * Current certification from a nationally accredited industry association such as NASM, ACSM, NSCA, ACE is preferred. * Current ...

Showing results 21-40

Masters In Exercise Science information

See Durham, NC salary details

$5

$25

$55

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for masters in exercise science in Durham, NC is $25.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $30.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a master's 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a master's in exercise science?

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.

What types of career advancement opportunities are available for professionals with a master's 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.

Is a Masters in exercise science worth it?

A Master's in exercise science prepares individuals for careers such as exercise physiologists, fitness trainers, and rehabilitation specialists, often requiring certification and practical experience. It can improve job prospects and earning potential in health, fitness, and sports industries, but the value depends on career goals and industry demand.

What careers can I do with a Masters in Exercise Science degree?

A Masters in Exercise Science prepares individuals for careers such as exercise physiologist, athletic trainer, fitness director, or strength and conditioning coach. These roles often involve working in healthcare, sports teams, fitness facilities, or rehabilitation centers, and may require certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree provides knowledge of human physiology, biomechanics, and exercise programming essential for these professions.

What to do with a Masters in Exercise Science degree?

A Masters in Exercise Science prepares individuals for careers such as exercise physiologists, personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and rehabilitation specialists. Graduates often work in fitness centers, healthcare settings, or sports organizations, and may pursue certifications like ACSM or NSCA to enhance job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Masters In Exercise Science jobs in Durham, NC?

For Masters In Exercise Science jobs in Durham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Masters In Exercise Science jobs in Durham, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Masters In Exercise Science jobs in Durham, NC are:

What cities near Durham, NC are hiring for Masters In Exercise Science jobs?

Cities near Durham, NC with the most Masters In Exercise Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Masters In Exercise Science job openings in Durham, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,964 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Exercise Specialist - Duke Fitness Center - part time

Duke Health

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Duke Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 255 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

307th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

General Description of the Job Class
The Duke Health and Fitness Center is seeking a highly qualified exercise specialist to join our team.Responsibilities include to provide safety for clinical members during exercise sessions and to triage symptoms and vitals for members pre/during/post exercise sessions and providing personal training sessions to a diverse member population.Supporting group fitness classes on land and in pool is an added support.
Work Performed
Level I - Participate in screening individuals' medical histories and current Health status to identify major health risk factors; administer fitness testing procedures and counsel individuals regarding test results and us of exercise equipment, assist with fitness-related educational programs. - Population usually low risk, even though risk factors exist. Entry level work with medical programs, scripts must be co-signed by level 3 Exercise Specialist, Exercise Physiologist or supervisor. Level II - Plan, coordinate and implement the development of exercise and related programs for a variety of special populations and clinical programs. - Perform a wide variety of fitness assessments and/or non-invasive cardiopulmonary tests according to work site. - Responsible for developing safe exercise prescriptions, goal setting and exercise progression for low, medium and high-risk patients. - Able to teach variety of land and water based group exercise for low, medium and high risk clients as required by work site. - Requires co-sign / oversight by Level 3 Exercise Specialist, Exercise Physiologist or supervisor. Level III - Responsible for all exercise requirements indicated in cardiac rehab state license, AACVPR national and ACSM guidelines as applicable to work site. - Able to teach most/all offered land and water based group exercise for low, medium and high risk clients as required by work site. - Recognizes symptom changes & signs of problems. - Knows appropriate medical response / processes. - Initiates first responder care. - Active in program certification process and regulatory agency review as applicable to work site. - Understands care management and interacts as patient advocate for appropriate referrals (non-physician) to other professionals or community services as indicated. - Function as a Team Leader and performs charge responsibilities
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
N/A
Level Characteristics
Level I:
• All exercise scripts have to be co-signed by higher-level ES
• Lower risk responsibilities.
• Significant on the job training takes place at this level. Level II:
• Higher level of function and autonomy, but still needs oversight. May have some "charge duty" responsibilities, but not full supervisory responsibility. Level III:
• Functions independently in all diagnostic / clinical tasks.
• Higher-level function regarding program oversight.
• No co-signatures required (unless future national policy requires EP signature.)
• Maximum level attained without master's degree or RCEP credential.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's degree in exercise science or related field required.
Experience
Level I: No previous experience required.Level II: Minimum 1-year applicable experience. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted. Level III: Minimum 2 yrs. applicable experience. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted.
Degrees, Licensures, Certifications
Level I: BLS certification Level II: BLS; ACSM certification (must attain certification within 1 year of hire) Level III: BLS (ACLS preferred), ACSM Clinical Certification as Exercise Specialist required
Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.
Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

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