A degree in kinesiology, the scientific study of human movement, offers a foundation for many career options. Graduates possess a specialized understanding of health, wellness, and fitness, preparing them for roles in hands-on fitness, corporate wellness, education, and healthcare-related fields.
What is a Kinesiology Degree?
A kinesiology degree program is built on a scientific core, providing a detailed understanding of the human body. Foundational courses include anatomy and physiology, which explore the body’s structure and how its systems work together. Students learn the details of the musculoskeletal, nervous, and cardiovascular systems.
The curriculum extends to specialized areas. Biomechanics applies physics to understand forces on the body during movement. Motor control and learning courses investigate how the nervous system plans and executes movements. Exercise physiology examines the body’s responses to physical activity, providing insight into using exercise to improve health.
Students also engage with the psychological and societal aspects of physical activity. Coursework in sport and exercise psychology explores topics like motivation, anxiety, and performance enhancement. Public health classes may also be included, teaching students how to apply their knowledge to community wellness programs.
Popular Kinesiology Career Paths
Personal Trainer
A personal trainer designs customized exercise programs for individuals. After assessing a client’s fitness level, goals, and limitations, they create safe workout plans and provide instruction on proper technique. They also offer motivation and accountability. Many are self-employed or work in fitness centers, requiring certifications like the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT).
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Strength and conditioning coaches specialize in improving athletic performance. They work with athletes at all levels, designing sport-specific programs to enhance strength, speed, and agility while minimizing injury risk. Their responsibilities include conducting performance assessments, supervising training sessions, and collaborating with athletic trainers and medical staff. This role often involves irregular hours to accommodate team schedules.
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise physiologists develop fitness programs to help patients recover from chronic diseases and improve their health. They often work in clinical settings like hospitals, conducting assessments to create safe, individualized plans for people with conditions like heart disease or diabetes. Their work uses exercise as a form of medicine under the guidance of physicians.
Corporate Wellness Coordinator
A corporate wellness coordinator manages health promotion programs within a company to improve employee well-being. Responsibilities include organizing health screenings, fitness challenges, and wellness workshops. They aim to create a healthier work environment to reduce healthcare costs and increase productivity. This role requires strong organizational skills to engage employees and promote a culture of health.
Physical Education Teacher
Physical education (P.E.) teachers work in schools, educating students on physical activity and healthy living. They design and lead classes that teach sports, fitness concepts, and age-appropriate movement skills. In addition to instructional duties, they may coach school sports teams. A state-issued teaching license or certification is required for this profession.
Athletic Coach
Coaches lead sports teams, focusing on skill development, strategy, and teamwork. They plan and supervise practices, analyze performance, and make decisions during games. Coaches also serve as mentors, helping athletes develop discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship. This career path spans from youth leagues to professional organizations.
Recreation Director
Recreation directors plan and oversee recreational activities in settings like community centers, parks, and camps. Their work provides opportunities for leisure, fitness, and social engagement for people of all ages. They manage budgets, supervise staff, and ensure facilities are safe and well-maintained.
Medical or Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
A kinesiology background is advantageous for medical or pharmaceutical sales. Representatives sell medical devices, equipment, or medications to hospitals and healthcare professionals. An understanding of anatomy and biomechanics allows them to explain product benefits effectively to specialists. This career combines scientific knowledge with strong interpersonal and sales skills.
Careers Requiring an Advanced Degree
A bachelor’s degree in kinesiology serves as a foundation for advanced studies in several healthcare fields. The undergraduate curriculum provides a strong preparatory track for the demands of graduate-level clinical programs. Many students choose kinesiology to pursue a doctoral or master’s degree to enter specialized, licensed professions.
Physical Therapist
Physical therapists (PTs) help patients recover from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries to regain function and manage pain. They evaluate patients and develop individualized treatment plans that may include therapeutic exercises and manual therapy. To practice, PTs must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and pass a state licensure exam.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists (OTs) help people of all ages participate in necessary daily activities, or “occupations.” They assist individuals recovering from injury or illness, as well as those with developmental disabilities, to regain skills for daily living and working. Becoming an OT requires a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree.
Physician Assistant
Physician assistants (PAs) are licensed clinicians who practice medicine on a healthcare team in collaboration with physicians. They conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, and prescribe medication. This career requires a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program and offers a versatile role in many medical specialties.
Chiropractor
Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, with a focus on manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine. They use a hands-on approach to healthcare, addressing issues related to the back, neck, and joints without drugs or surgery. To become a chiropractor, one must complete a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree program, which takes four years of post-graduate study.
Key Skills for Kinesiology Graduates
Kinesiology graduates develop strong communication abilities, learning to explain complex physiological concepts to clients, patients, or students. This skill is honed through coursework, presentations, and lab reports, preparing them for professional interactions.
The curriculum fosters critical thinking and problem-solving. Students are trained to assess individual needs, analyze movement patterns, and design appropriate interventions. These skills are developed through lab work, data interpretation, and case studies that apply theory to real-world scenarios.
Graduates also gain a deep understanding of health and wellness principles beyond exercise prescription. They learn about behavior change, motivational strategies, and the psychological factors that influence health choices. This allows them to be effective advocates for healthy lifestyles in various environments.
How to Find a Job with Your Degree
Securing a position involves leveraging practical experience gained during your studies. Pursuing internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs in fitness centers, clinics, or research labs provides hands-on skills and professional connections. This experience makes your resume more attractive to employers by showing you can apply academic knowledge.
Obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your marketability. Aspiring personal trainers should pursue a CPT credential, while those interested in coaching can seek sport-specific certifications. These credentials validate your expertise and show a commitment to professional standards.
Building a professional network is also important. Attend industry conferences, connect with alumni, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Informational interviews can provide insight and may lead to job opportunities. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills for each application.