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Phd In Exercise Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Fitness Specialist - Nashua, IA

Denver, IA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or Exercise Physiology; OR Certified Personal Trainer through a nationally accredited organization (ACSM, NSCA, NASM, ACE, ISSA preferred); OR ...

Fitness Specialist - Osage, IA

Mitchell, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $16.75/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or Exercise Physiology; OR Certified Personal Trainer through a nationally accredited organization (ACSM, NSCA, NASM, ACE, ISSA preferred); OR ...

Fitness Specialist - Nashua, IA

Nashua, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $18.50/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or Exercise Physiology; OR Certified Personal Trainer through a nationally accredited organization (ACSM, NSCA, NASM, ACE, ISSA preferred); OR ...

Fitness Specialist - Osage, IA

Osage, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $16.75/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or Exercise Physiology; OR Certified Personal Trainer through a nationally accredited organization (ACSM, NSCA, NASM, ACE, ISSA preferred); OR ...

... Exercise Science, Fitness Management, Human Performance, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Sports Management, Sports Medicine. If you are interested in helping inspire and ...

... Exercise Science, Fitness Management, Human Performance, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Sports Management, Sports Medicine. If you are interested in helping inspire and ...

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Phd In Exercise Science information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$26

$44

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

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd in exercise science in Iowa is $26.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $31.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much can you make with a PhD in exercise science?

A PhD in exercise science can lead to advanced roles such as university faculty, research director, or sports science consultant, with salaries typically ranging from $60,000 to over $100,000 annually depending on experience, location, and specific industry. Academic positions often require teaching and research responsibilities, and additional certifications or expertise can influence earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Exercise Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD in Exercise Science, you need advanced knowledge of physiology, biomechanics, and research methodologies, typically supported by a doctoral degree in exercise science or a related field. Proficiency in statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), laboratory equipment, and research design tools is essential. Strong communication, critical thinking, and project management skills distinguish top professionals in this field. These competencies are crucial for conducting impactful research, publishing findings, and advancing knowledge in exercise science.

What is the difference between Phd In Exercise Science vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectPhd In Exercise ScienceExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsDoctorate degree (PhD), research experienceBachelor's or Master's degree, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, healthcare researchClinics, fitness centers, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, healthcare organizationsRehabilitation centers, sports teams, wellness facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentAcademic/research careers, advanced roles in exercise scienceClinical practice, fitness, rehabilitation

The main difference between a Phd In Exercise Science and an Exercise Physiologist lies in their focus and career paths. A PhD is research-oriented, often leading to academic or scientific roles, while an Exercise Physiologist works directly with clients in clinical or fitness settings. Both roles require knowledge of exercise science, but their work environments and career goals differ significantly.

What types of interdisciplinary collaboration can I expect as a PhD in Exercise Science?

As a PhD in Exercise Science, you will frequently collaborate with professionals across diverse fields, such as physical therapy, nutrition, public health, biomechanics, and even psychology. These collaborations are common in both academic research and applied settings, such as hospitals, sports organizations, or corporate wellness programs. Working on multidisciplinary teams allows you to contribute your expertise while gaining insights from other disciplines, leading to more comprehensive research and impactful interventions. This environment also offers rich opportunities for networking and career growth.

Is it worth getting a PhD in exercise science?

A PhD in exercise science prepares individuals for research, academia, and advanced clinical roles, often requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of human physiology. It can lead to higher-level positions and increased earning potential but involves significant time and financial investment. Career advancement depends on the industry, experience, and additional certifications such as ACSM or NSCA credentials.

What can you do with a PhD in exercise science?

A PhD in exercise science prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, sports performance, and health promotion. Graduates often work as university professors, exercise physiologists, research scientists, or consultants, utilizing skills in data analysis, biomechanics, and physiology to improve health and athletic performance.

What is a PhD in Exercise Science?

A PhD in Exercise Science is the highest academic degree focused on the scientific study of physical activity, exercise, and their impact on health, performance, and disease prevention. This program typically involves advanced coursework, research, and a dissertation, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, clinical settings, or leadership roles in health and fitness industries. Students often specialize in areas like physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, or public health. The degree emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping graduates to contribute new knowledge to the field.

What is the highest-paying job in exercise science?

The highest-paying jobs in exercise science typically include sports medicine physicians, exercise physiologists in clinical settings, and research directors in sports science organizations, often requiring advanced degrees and certifications. These roles involve specialized knowledge, leadership, and often work in hospitals, research institutions, or private clinics, with salaries exceeding $70,000 annually depending on experience and location.
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Phd In Exercise Science jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Phd In Exercise Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Phd In Exercise Science job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,392 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Graduate Assistant Health and Human Performance (Sports Science; Part-time)

Graduate Assistant Health and Human Performance (Sports Science; Part-time)

Wartburg College

Waverly, IA • On-site

$34K - $44K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Wartburg College
Title of Position
- Graduate Assistant Health and Human Performance (Sports Science; Part-time)
Wartburg College is dedicated to challenging and nurturing students for lives of leadership and service as a spirited expression of their faith and learning. Founded in 1852, Wartburg College is a selective liberal arts college internationally recognized for its community engagement and academic excellence.
The institution is at an exciting moment as it embarks upon "Our Brightest Days: Realizing Purpose, Leading Change," the College's new strategic plan. As indicated in the newly adopted vision statement, "Wartburg College is called to be the leading institution in education of the whole person. Together, we create an inclusive community combining diverse curricular and co- curricular experiences to prepare students to be resilient leaders of positive change through service in a complex world."
Principle Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Human Performance Support & Coaching
  • Assist the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach in the design and implementation of training programs for various athletic teams.
  • Provide direct supervision of the weight room to ensure student-athlete safety, proper technique, and adherence to program protocols.
  • Assist in the administration of physiological and performance testing (e.g., force plates, GPS tracking, heart rate variability, or velocity-based training).

2. Data Management & Analysis
  • Lead the daily collection and cleaning of performance data.
  • Create visualization reports (dashboards) for the Director and Coaching staff to track athlete readiness, fatigue, and long-term development.
  • Assist the Program Director in gathering data for internal research or program-wide performance audits.

3. Administrative & Academic Support
  • Manage scheduling for the performance facility and assist with the maintenance and calibration of sport science equipment.
  • Serve as a peer-leader for undergraduate interns or student workers within the health and human performance department.
  • Assist the graduate studies faculty and staff with recruitment and outreach events.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Data Science, Statistics, or related field.
  • Must be enrolled in the prescribed MS in Sport Science courses each term.
  • Requires relevant experience with data software (e.g., excel, R, SPSS, JASP, Python) and familiarity with common human performance technologies.
  • Possession of (or immediate plan to sit for) a nationally recognized certification such as the NSCA-CSCS (other certifications will be considered).
  • Requires clear communication skills and desire to work with college-age students.
  • Candidate must have excellent project management skills, including flexibility, problem solving and leadership development skills.
  • Must maintain an overall grade point average of 3.00 while in the GA program.
  • Must meet the eligibility requirements for employment within the United States.
  • Must successfully complete a background screening.

Application Procedure:
Please upload the following by selecting the "Apply for this Position" below: 1) resume 2) a letter of interest including a statement regarding qualities within the context of the Wartburg College mission 3) contact information for three references.
For specific inquiries contact cameron.mackey@wartburg.edu. Please note before an offer of a graduate assistantship can be extended, a student needs to be fully admitted to the Master of Science in Sport Science. Application information can be found here and questions regarding the application can be sent to gradstudies@wartburg.edu. See www.wartburg.edu for further information about the college. Screening begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.