Kinesiology Degree Guide: 2025 Costs, Requirements & Job Opportunities

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Many wonder what to do with kinesiology degree. Graduates of a kinesiology degree can explore many different career options. These jobs for kinesiology majors range from sports medicine and sports science to allied health and wellness. Furthermore, they can pursue professional paths such as athletic trainers, physical therapists, fitness instructors, exercise physiologists, and occupational therapists. Moreover, they may even consider becoming a scientist or researcher. All in all, they have an abundance of job opportunities to choose from.

The outlook for studying kinesiology is very positive, as the number of kinesiology degrees awarded is increasing by 1.48%, with 30,750 students having received the degree in 2019. Additionally, the number of people joining the kinesiology workforce is also rising, with an increase of 9.61%. You can find out more about this degree, the requirements to enter a program, how much you should prepare for college, and jobs you can get with a kinesiology degree, such as different types of doctors.

Kinesiology Degree Table of Contents

1. What is a Kinesiology Degree?
2. Cost of Kinesiology Degree
3. Kinesiology Degree Jobs
4. Types of Degrees in Kinesiology
5. Kinesiology Degree Requirements
6. What to Look for in a Kinesiology Program
7. Majors Related to Kinesiology
8. Is an Online Kinesiology Degree a Cost-Effective Option?
9. What are the benefits of combining kinesiology with other disciplines?
10. Should kinesiology graduates consider complementary certifications?
11. How Does Technology and Online Education Expand Kinesiology Career Opportunities?
12. Exploring Interdisciplinary Opportunities Between Biology and Kinesiology
13. Can Accelerated Healthcare Programs Advance Your Kinesiology Career?
14. Should a Doctorate Complement Your Kinesiology Degree?
15. Professional Certifications and Licenses for Kinesiology Graduates
16. Future Trends in Kinesiology and Emerging Opportunities
17. Can dual master's degrees boost your kinesiology career?
18. How Can Practical Experience Enhance Your Kinesiology Career?

What is a kinesiology degree?

What is kinesiology major? Kinesiology is an academic discipline that deals with the study of human motion and its various components, ranging from anatomical and physiological to neurological and psychological. The term is a combination of two Greek words: “kinesis" which means “to move" (Canadian Kinesiology Alliance, 2019), and “logos" which can be taken to mean “study."

Therefore, an essential kinesiology definition connects to the examination of the way human bodies move and how muscles work. To that end, students are introduced to a system of testing that allows the identification of weak muscles. Once those are localized, then they can go about building a strategy to strengthen those (ECPI University, 2016).

What can you do with a kinesiology degree?

What can you do with a kinesiology degree? Holders of a kinesiology degree can become athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, epidemiologists, exercise physiologists, and massage therapists. You can also become personal trainers, or occupational therapists, or hold administrative or academic positions in educational institutions. You can use your degree to become a sports journalist and a sports marketer as well. And should it be up your alley, you can proceed to become a registered nurse or a medical doctor (American Kinesiology Association, 2021).

Expanding on similar career paths, one might wonder, What can you do with an exercise science degree? This degree opens doors to many of the same opportunities as a kinesiology degree, with additional avenues in areas like fitness instruction, wellness coordination, and rehabilitation therapy. Graduates with an exercise science degree often find roles in healthcare settings, fitness and wellness centers, and sports organizations, leveraging their deep understanding of human movement and health.

Cost of Kinesiology Degree

Based on four-year degree-granting postsecondary institutions, the average kinesiology degree tuition is $7,344 for in-state public schools and $30,988 for out-of-state private colleges and universities. An online kinesiology degree, however, tends to cost less. Knowing these figures may help you prepare financially for college.

How much does it cost to get a kinesiology degree?

The following table outlines the average costs of studying kinesiology, from the associate level to the doctorate level.

Is a degree in kinesiology worth it?

There are disciplines where passion plays a big role and kinesiology is one of those. In 2017, the reported average base salary for kinesiology majors was $40,000 (McCarthy, 2017). However, later data from BLS (2021) shows that exercise physiologists now have a median pay of $50,280 per year. So, if you are looking for something more lucrative, then kinesiology may not be worth it for you. But if you enjoy working with athletes and patients who need assistance with their fitness and exercise programs, then having a career in kinesiology would be well worth it.

Kinesiology Degree Jobs

Are you asking yourself, “What can I do with a kinesiology degree?" As mentioned earlier, a degree in kinesiology leads to a wide array of occupations. You can become a private practitioner or you can be attached to hospitals or clinics. In some cases, you can even be a part of a professional or collegiate sports team as a therapist or a fitness coach. Later on, should it be the path you want to take, you can further your career by becoming a doctor. You won’t worry about jobs with a kinesiology degree in your belt.

Is kinesiology in high demand?

Kinesiology jobs are in demand because of their relevance, particularly due to the obesity epidemic and the rise in the value of sports and athletes (Candelaria, 2017). Additionally, baby boomers are entering their senior years. Thus, many require the help of kinesiologists for the long-term care of previous injuries and to aid them in avoiding further injuries. They are also seeking treatments for bodily pains caused by arthritis and other ailments (Lifemark, 2018).

As a result, the job outlook for physical therapists is 18% from 2019 to 2029. Exercise physiologists are in great demand, too, as the number of workers in the occupation is expected to rise by 11%. Occupational therapists and athletic trainers are on the rise as well, with the job outlook for these occupations sitting at 16%. Likewise, fitness trainers and instructors continue to be popular in this period by 15% (BLS, 2021). Below are some answers to the what can you do with an exercise science degree question.

What jobs can you get with a kinesiology degree?

• Exercise Physiologists. They look at the medical history of patients, especially with regard to injuries, to assess their risks when doing exercises. And based on their assessment, they come up with the best fitness and exercise regimen. Their work also involves the performance of fitness and stress tests using medical equipment.
• Athletic Trainers. Their main role is to apply protective or injury-preventing devices like tapes, bandages, and braces to athletes. As well, they assist in providing first aid or emergency care in case of injury. The job description includes planning and implementing programs to avoid injuries in athletes, too.
• Physical Therapists. Helping people who have injuries or who experience pains is the primary responsibility of physical therapists. They assist patients in improving movements and in managing pain. To do that well, PTs diagnose patients by listening to them or have them undergo a series of small tests.

What kind of salary can I earn with a Kinesiology Degree?

The average wage of kinesiology majors is $66,000 (Payscale, 2023). Physical therapists, occupational therapists, and chiropractors have annual median wages above the recorded average, though. Individuals holding those occupations earn $95,620, $85,570, and $75,000, respectively (BLS, 2021).

Types of Degrees in Kinesiology

There are four kinesiology degree types: associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate. Kinesiology degree programs at the bachelor’s level are more common, though. Meanwhile, those who have master’s and doctorate degrees in kinesiology or similar are either into research/education or are kinesiotherapists who wanted to take their practice further.

What kinds of kinesiology degrees are there?

1. Associate Degree in Kinesiology

Average time to complete: 2 years

An associate degree in kinesiology provides students with a foundation in the discipline. They will be introduced to basic knowledge and skills in the field as well as theory and strategy. Students will also encounter discussions in the history, research, and current trends in the study and practice of kinesiology (Saddleback College, 2020)

Of course, they will learn about human anatomy and physiology as well. In some cases, students will have courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. And as kinesiology majors, they may have first aid and CPR courses, too (San Bernardino Valley College, 2021).

Entry-level jobs: physician’s assistant, occupational therapist, sports manager

2. Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology

Average time to complete: 4 years

At the bachelor level, kinesiology majors will go deeper into human anatomy. This time, they will delve into exercise physiology anatomy. Students will have courses in applied exercise physiology, applied biomechanics, and functional kinesiology. What can you do with a bachelor’s in kinesiology? You can work many entry-level jobs in fields relating to the courses, and in some fields that are not. Since assessment and record-taking is part of the field, they will learn how to do assessments and evaluations as well. They could also learn how to coach certain sports and individuals for personal training (UCF, 2019).

Entry-level jobs: corporate wellness trainer, cardiac rehabilitation therapist, athletic trainer

3. Master’s Degree in Kinesiology

Average time to complete: 2 years

Going into graduate studies in kinesiology allows a student to explore concentrations. For example, the Oregon State University (2021) lets you choose between biophysical kinesiology and psychosocial kinesiology. The former focuses on biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor control. Meanwhile, the latter concentrates on motor development, sport and exercise psychology, and the sociology of sport.

As part of the acquisition of the degree, students are expected to conduct research. If going to a physical class is not permitted by your schedule, you can enroll for an online master’s degree in sports management instead.

High-level positions: clinical exercise physiologist, wellness coach, strength and conditioning specialist

4. Doctoral Degree in Kinesiology

Average time to complete: 3 years

A Ph.D. program in kinesiology prepares people for research and teaching in academia. Students will investigate questions about kinesiology while understanding more about the research methods that researchers use to answer those questions.

During the duration of their program, they will have in-depth discussions of athletic training and sports medicine, biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control, and the psychology of physical activity. They will also learn more about the history and philosophy of sport (Penn State, 2021).

High-level positions: researcher, postsecondary instructor, research analyst

5. Certificate in Kinesiology

Average time to complete: 1 semester

If you wish to get a certificate in any aspect of kinesiology, such as coaching, fitness specialization or personal training, or athletic training, then it is possible (Mt. San Antonio College, 2021). These are designed for those who are not yet ready to get into an associate or bachelor’s program in kinesiology or for those who want to enhance their knowledge and skills for employment. Typically, these only take weeks or a couple of months but may last as long as a semester.

Entry-level jobs: athletic trainer aide, sports coach, personal trainer

Kinesiology Degree Requirements

To get into a postsecondary kinesiology program, there are certain requirements that you must present to the college or university you wish to enter. Most of these are general kinesiology degree prerequisites and should already be on hand. If not, you can easily contact the right offices to get the necessary documentation.

Admission Requirements

Proof of Graduation

Higher education institutions need high school graduate students to present proof that they have graduated. Typically, that would be a diploma from the secondary school they attended. If they enrolled in several schools over the years, then they should have transcripts from the previous schools as well.

Those who have previously graduated from another associate or bachelor’s degree program have to present the same proof.

Transcript

You need to submit your transcript from your high school and previous colleges or universities for admission to a kinesiology program. The general acceptance GPA for higher education degrees is 2.0. If you do not meet the minimum grade, you may arrange to have additional coursework or be under probation to be accepted or to continue with your post-secondary education.

Coursework

Since kinesiology is a science-heavy program, students must show aptitude in biology or related courses, particularly physics and chemistry. It will be to the benefit of the student as well if they have advanced high school courses in those subjects plus, English.

SAT or ACT score

The College Board has stopped offering SAT subject tests and SAT with essays. Therefore, students are no longer required to submit SAT scores.

On the other hand, ACT is still being offered. Each college or university may have differing score requirements for the ACT, so it is best to check with your selected institutions.

Other Requirements

International students would have to show they have a good grasp of the English language for admission to any higher education institution. They can do this by taking the IELTS or TOEFL. Other schools may accept alternative aptitude tests, such as Cambridge English Langauge Assessment and Pearson Test of English-Academic.

Skill Requirements

Writing and Communication Skills

One of the essential kinesiology degree skills is the art of communicating with patients and possibly physicians. This is why practitioners need to be good at communicating—to make patients understand why they have to undergo treatment. At times, you may need to provide motivation to patients who are giving up to push them to continue. Kinesiology practice also calls for accurate record-keeping. Because of that, you have to be good at writing observations and progress reports.

Fitness and Health Knowledge

It may not be a hard skill, but to be a good kinesiologist, you need to have knowledge of health and fitness. This is something you will gain while you are in school, but trends change, and there could be new research after you graduate that could be helpful in your field. Thus, you have to keep up with scientific inquiries and check health trends because they may be helpful to patients. And in case those health trends are relevant to your patients, you can give them updated advice.

Research that can affect kinesiology practice is the use of kinesiology tapes. For example, the research of Andrýskova and Lee (2020) explored the use of kinesiology tape in sports. In their paper “The Guidelines for Application of Kinesiology Tape for Prevention and Treatment of Sports Injuries," the authors noted the insufficient knowledge in the proper use of tapes, which makes it ineffective or can lead to undesired effects. To that end, the researchers’ study, published in Healthcare, offered additional insights into the use of kinesiology tapes, saying, “There is another particularly important and fundamental rule of kinesiology taping that is either unknown or not respected, application of tape for a maximum of 24 hours. Subjects should never wear kinesiology tapes for more than a day. There are several reasons for this time limitation. Skin troubles are the most frequent problems that arise due to excessive wearing of kinesiology tape."

As a kinesiology practitioner, you should be aware of research such as this for the benefit of your patients.

Physical Fitness

Being in a kinesiology-related occupation may have you being on your feet most of the time. As such, you yourself have to be physically fit to keep up with the demands of your work. You will be working with patients who require your assistance in standing up or doing certain exercises, too, so it is best to be in good shape.

What to Look for in a Kinesiology Program

No kinesiology program is designed the same way. They could have different specializations or tracks or they could approach the matter differently from what you are looking for. That makes it important for you to be inquisitive to ensure you will be satisfied with the learning you will get from a program.

Available Specializations

There are institutions that offer four specializations for kinesiology, such as the San José State University (2018). It has exercise and fitness specialization, rehabilitation science, inclusive physical activity in communities, and sport management and culture. Others like The University of Texas at Austin (2021) have six: coaching, disability studies in movement science, medical fitness and rehabilitation, strength conditioning coaching, community health and wellness, and health fitness instruction.

Accreditation

Accreditation is the measurement of the academic quality of a program. You can be sure that you will have the best instruction from an accredited program. There are several bodies that perform accreditation on kinesiology offerings by post-secondary schools. Some of these are the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education, the Committee on Accreditation for Exercise Sciences, and The Energy Kinesiology Association. These organizations have a presence online and you can check their lists of accredited programs and institutions.

Student-Teacher Ratio

A low student-to-faculty ratio means that students can have more engagements with their instructors. It also means they do not have fierce competition from other students for their professors’ attention when they have questions or require guidance for their papers and projects. These days, the acceptable student:teacher ratio in postsecondary institutions is 17:1 or lower. If it is higher than 20:1, then it may be a red flag as you will have a harder time getting academic advice from your professor (Grove, 2019).

Financial Aid Options

Colleges and universities offer scholarships and grants to deserving students who meet their criteria of eligibility. You will have plenty of competition for these so it is best to see what these are and what their requirements are as early as possible. In this way, you have a higher chance of being seen and chosen. You can also take out federal student loans or have a work-study employment arrangement. Schools and departments under which kinesiology programs are housed could have scholarships specifically for students in their department, too. These could be offered by alumni or donor organizations so you should check them as well. With the rising costs of higher education, it is understandable that many are looking for a free ride to college. But there is still the burning question of why should college be free.

Majors Related to Kinesiology

1. Psychology 
2. Education 
3. Biology 

Is an Online Kinesiology Degree a Cost-Effective Option?

When assessing online kinesiology programs, accreditation, curriculum quality, and affordability are key considerations. Students often evaluate how well these programs balance flexible scheduling with rigorous coursework designed to meet industry standards. For those prioritizing budget without compromising educational quality, exploring the cheapest online kinesiology degree can be a strategic choice. This approach ensures that prospective professionals can access cost-effective, accredited programs while maintaining a competitive edge in the evolving kinesiology job market.

What are the benefits of combining kinesiology with other disciplines?

Combining kinesiology with other disciplines can significantly expand career opportunities and enhance your expertise in a variety of fields. By integrating knowledge from areas such as psychology, nutrition, or business, kinesiology graduates can offer more comprehensive services, whether working with patients, athletes, or in managerial roles. Here are some of the potential benefits of interdisciplinary approaches in kinesiology:

Enhanced Career Flexibility

Merging kinesiology with fields like psychology, nutrition, or education allows for a broader range of job opportunities. For example, combining kinesiology with psychology could lead to a career in sports psychology, where you assist athletes in mental conditioning as well as physical training.

Holistic Approach to Health

A background in nutrition can complement kinesiology knowledge by enabling you to provide clients or patients with a more complete health regimen that includes both physical activity and proper dietary habits. This is particularly useful for fitness coaches, rehabilitation therapists, and wellness consultants.

Business and Entrepreneurship Skills

For those interested in running their own fitness or wellness business, combining kinesiology with business courses can help you develop the skills needed to manage a gym, rehabilitation center, or fitness coaching service. Understanding marketing, finance, and management can enhance your ability to operate successfully in the health and wellness industry.

Specialized Medical Fields

Pursuing an additional focus in biomechanics or sports medicine alongside kinesiology prepares you for highly specialized roles in healthcare settings. This could lead to positions in orthopedics, rehabilitation centers, or research, where advanced knowledge of human movement and injury prevention is required.

Increased Marketability

Employers often favor candidates with interdisciplinary knowledge, as it reflects versatility and the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives. This can make kinesiology graduates more attractive for roles in corporate wellness programs, sports team management, or rehabilitation sciences.

Should kinesiology graduates consider complementary certifications?

Kinesiology graduates seeking to expand their professional scope may gain significant advantages by adding targeted certifications to their core qualifications. Acquiring additional credentials can diversify skill sets, bridge gaps between clinical practice and administrative functions, and improve opportunities in multidisciplinary roles. For instance, supplementing practical kinesiology expertise with online medical billing and coding certification programs can enhance proficiency in healthcare management and operational accuracy, further positioning professionals as valuable assets in both clinical and administrative settings.

How Does Technology and Online Education Expand Kinesiology Career Opportunities?

Advances in digital learning platforms, simulation-based training, and telehealth are reshaping professional development in kinesiology. These innovations allow practitioners to access state-of-the-art courses, real-time feedback, and remote collaboration with experts worldwide, thereby enhancing clinical decision-making and research skills. For professionals looking to broaden their expertise beyond traditional boundaries, exploring flexible online programs is increasingly attractive—for example, Can you become a pharmacist online? demonstrates the expanding role of remote education in complementary healthcare fields.

Exploring Interdisciplinary Opportunities Between Biology and Kinesiology

One notable synergy exists between kinesiology and biology due to their shared focus on the human body and its functions. For kinesiology students considering a multidisciplinary approach, delving deeper into biology can lead to ground-breaking career opportunities and enhanced expertise in specialized areas of healthcare and research.

In particular, blending kinesiology with a strong foundation in biology can position graduates for roles in rehabilitative sciences, cellular biomechanics, and sports medicine. Biology offers critical insights into cellular regeneration, human anatomy, and physiological processes, all of which are invaluable to kinesiologists striving to develop effective therapeutic and exercise interventions.

Additionally, focusing on biology broadens the scope of career pursuits, potentially leading to lucrative options in allied health professions. For example, careers combining kinesiology and biology often align with roles in medical fields such as genetic counseling or laboratory research. Aspiring health practitioners targeting interdisciplinary expertise may also benefit from understanding biology major salary expectations to make informed career decisions.

Ultimately, an integration of kinesiology and biology enables professionals to adopt a holistic approach when tackling challenges related to human health and movement. This blend not only increases their scientific acumen but also their value in rapidly evolving bio-health fields.

Can Accelerated Healthcare Programs Advance Your Kinesiology Career?

Accelerated healthcare programs offer a strategic pathway for kinesiology graduates to broaden their clinical expertise and complement their background in human movement with specialized medical training. By engaging with expedited programs, professionals can gain critical competencies in clinical decision-making, enabling a more integrated approach to patient care. For instance, pursuing opportunities such as fast track online PharmD programs can open doors to roles that merge wellness and pharmaceutical care, fostering enhanced collaboration within interdisciplinary healthcare teams.

Should a Doctorate Complement Your Kinesiology Degree?

Pursuing a doctorate can elevate your expertise in kinesiology by deepening your research capabilities, clinical specialization, and leadership skills. Advanced studies offer an opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary methodologies that integrate evidence-based practice with innovative therapeutic approaches. A doctoral credential can bridge the gap between clinical application and academic research, opening pathways to specialized roles in healthcare, education, and executive management. For those exploring complementary fields, evaluating options such as top PharmD programs may reveal additional strategies to diversify your professional competencies and maximize career impact.

Professional Certifications and Licenses for Kinesiology Graduates

Earning a kinesiology degree opens the door to a variety of career paths, but some positions may require additional certifications or licenses to practice legally or gain a competitive edge. Obtaining a professional certification can validate your skills, demonstrate expertise, and make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Here are some popular certifications for kinesiology graduates to consider:

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)

The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification, offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), is ideal for kinesiology graduates interested in working with athletes. CSCS certification covers strength and conditioning techniques, exercise physiology, and injury prevention, making it a valuable credential for those pursuing careers as athletic trainers or personal trainers.

Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C)

For those focused on exercise science, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) offers the Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C) credential. This certification is geared toward professionals developing exercise programs for clients with medically controlled conditions, making it an ideal choice for those looking to work in rehabilitation centers, healthcare facilities, or wellness programs.

Physical Therapist (PT) and Occupational Therapist (OT) Licenses

To become a licensed physical or occupational therapist, additional graduate-level education and passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) or National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam are necessary. These licenses allow kinesiology graduates to practice legally as physical or occupational therapists and work with patients recovering from injuries, managing chronic pain, or enhancing mobility.

Future Trends in Kinesiology and Emerging Opportunities

As the field of kinesiology continues to grow, several emerging trends are shaping the future of this dynamic profession. These trends not only reflect advancements in healthcare and technology but also highlight the growing need for professionals who can address evolving public health challenges.

• Telehealth and Virtual Fitness: With the rise of telehealth, kinesiology professionals, especially physical therapists and exercise physiologists, are increasingly offering virtual consultations and rehabilitation programs. This trend has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and is expected to continue as patients seek more flexible healthcare options. Professionals skilled in telehealth platforms will be in high demand as remote care becomes more mainstream.
• Wearable Technology in Rehabilitation and Fitness: The integration of wearable devices, such as fitness trackers and smart wearables, is revolutionizing rehabilitation and fitness monitoring. Kinesiologists can leverage these technologies to collect real-time data, track patient progress, and design personalized treatment programs. As wearables become more sophisticated, the demand for kinesiologists who can analyze this data and apply it effectively in clinical and fitness settings is set to rise.
• Aging Population and Preventive Healthcare: The aging population is driving demand for professionals who can assist with mobility, fitness, and overall wellness. Kinesiologists specializing in geriatric care and preventive health will find increased opportunities in both clinical and community settings. This shift towards preventive healthcare, rather than reactive treatments, aligns with broader public health trends, offering kinesiology graduates promising career prospects.
• Sports Science and Performance Optimization: The demand for sports scientists and performance optimization specialists is growing, particularly as athletes at all levels seek to maximize their potential. Kinesiology graduates with a focus on sports science can expect increased opportunities in areas like injury prevention, biomechanics, and athletic performance enhancement.
• Emerging Roles in Corporate Wellness: With many companies investing in the well-being of their employees, kinesiology graduates are well-positioned to take on roles in corporate wellness programs. These positions may involve developing fitness programs, offering ergonomic assessments, and creating health initiatives that promote employee well-being and productivity.

As kinesiology continues to evolve, graduates who stay up to date with the latest industry trends, continue their education, and adapt to new technologies will be the most competitive in this fast-growing field. For those looking to expand their credentials and further enhance their career opportunities, pursuing an affordable master's degrees online could be a strategic move to gain advanced skills and specialization in emerging areas of kinesiology.

Can dual master's degrees boost your kinesiology career?

Graduates ready to advance their expertise may benefit from pursuing advanced academic pathways that combine kinesiology with complementary disciplines. By enrolling in dual master's degrees, professionals can gain integrated insights from fields such as business management, nutrition, or biomedical engineering, which can open valuable leadership and research opportunities. This approach not only deepens subject knowledge but also hones skills that are increasingly sought after in competitive healthcare and sports industries.

How Can Practical Experience Enhance Your Kinesiology Career?

Engaging in internships, clinical placements, and hands-on training offers a vital bridge between academic learning and real-world application in kinesiology. Such practical experiences not only solidify theoretical understanding but also provide exposure to diverse settings—ranging from rehabilitation centers to community health programs—where evidence-based practices are implemented daily. Integrating these experiences into your education can open pathways to advanced roles and specialized certifications, while also complementing skills acquired from coursework. Additionally, evaluating accelerated allied health programs, such as determining How long is a medical assistant program?, can provide further insights into managing complementary training efficiently.

Laying Down the Foundations for a Kinesiology Career

So what can you do with a degree in kinesiology? A lot!

There are numerous paths you can take when you become a kinesiology major. As mentioned above, you can choose from four to six areas of specialization. And if you are fortunate, you can carve your own study path, too, and take courses in different concentrations.

Careers with kinesiology degree can be lucrative, depending on your focus. The kinesiology careers that earn the most are physical therapists, chiropractors, and occupational therapists. Others take home an annual pay of $60,000 or below. It can be an exacting job, too, as you will be dealing with patients who may be depressed because of their disability, injury, or ailment.

But you can become a researcher in kinesiology, too, if that is your cup of tea. This program can also help you prepare to become a doctor, in case you want to pursue a medical career. And believe it or not, it is possible to pursue a nursing degree with a kinesiology degree under your belt. As well, you can explore trends in higher education to help you make a decision for your future.

Key Insights

• Diverse Career Opportunities: Kinesiology graduates have a wide array of career options, including roles as athletic trainers, physical therapists, fitness instructors, exercise physiologists, occupational therapists, researchers, and even positions in sports journalism and marketing.
• Growing Field: The number of kinesiology degrees awarded is increasing by 1.48%, and the workforce is growing by 9.61%, indicating a positive outlook for those entering this field.
• Cost of Education: The cost of obtaining a kinesiology degree varies significantly based on the type of institution and residency status, with public in-state options being the most affordable and private institutions being the most expensive.
• High Demand for Kinesiologists: Due to the rise in obesity rates, the aging population, and the increasing value placed on sports and athletes, the demand for kinesiologists is expected to grow, particularly for physical therapists, exercise physiologists, and occupational therapists.
• Specializations Available: Kinesiology programs often offer various specializations, such as exercise and fitness, rehabilitation science, sport management, and health fitness instruction, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals.
• Accreditation and Quality: It is crucial to choose an accredited kinesiology program to ensure high academic quality and better career prospects post-graduation.
• Financial Aid Options: Various scholarships, grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs are available to help students manage the cost of their kinesiology education.
• Interdisciplinary Relevance: Kinesiology is connected to several other fields, including psychology, education, and biology, which can enhance a graduate's versatility in the job market.

FAQ

1. What is a kinesiology degree? A kinesiology degree is an academic discipline focused on the study of human movement, integrating aspects of anatomy, physiology, neurology, and psychology. It involves understanding how muscles work and the mechanics of body movements to improve health, fitness, and performance.
2. What can you do with a kinesiology degree? Holders of a kinesiology degree can pursue careers as athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, epidemiologists, exercise physiologists, massage therapists, personal trainers, occupational therapists, sports journalists, sports marketers, registered nurses, or medical doctors.
3. How much does it cost to get a kinesiology degree? The cost varies by degree level and institution type. An associate degree ranges from $3,570 to $10,270, a bachelor’s degree from $7,344 to $37,650, a master’s degree from $8,950 to $29,960, and a doctoral degree from $10,830 to $42,920 annually.
4. Is a degree in kinesiology worth it? A kinesiology degree can be worth it if you have a passion for working with athletes and patients needing fitness and exercise assistance. While the median salary is around $66,000, higher positions such as physical therapists and occupational therapists can earn significantly more.
5. What are the types of kinesiology degrees available? Kinesiology degrees are available at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Each level provides different depth and specialization opportunities, from foundational knowledge to advanced research and teaching positions.
6. What are the job prospects for kinesiology graduates? Job prospects are positive, with high demand in various roles such as physical therapists, exercise physiologists, occupational therapists, and fitness trainers. The job outlook for these positions is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
7. What are the key requirements for entering a kinesiology program? Requirements typically include proof of graduation, transcripts, a minimum GPA, and sometimes standardized test scores (ACT). International students may need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
8. What specializations are available within kinesiology programs? Specializations can include exercise and fitness, rehabilitation science, inclusive physical activity, sport management, coaching, disability studies in movement science, medical fitness and rehabilitation, strength conditioning coaching, community health and wellness, and health fitness instruction.
9. How can kinesiology graduates stay updated with industry trends? Graduates should engage in continuous education, follow scientific research, join professional organizations, attend industry conferences, and stay informed about new health and fitness trends to keep their knowledge and skills current.
10. What financial aid options are available for kinesiology students? Financial aid options include scholarships, grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Many institutions offer specific scholarships for kinesiology students, and it's advisable to explore these opportunities early to maximize your chances.

References:

1. American Kinesiology Association. (2021). Careers in kinesiology. Retrieved from AKA.
2. Andrýskova, A., & Lee, J. (2020). The guidelines for application of kinesiology tape for prevention and treatment of sports injuries. Retrieved from Healthcare, 8(2), 144.
3. BLS. (2021, April 9). Athletic trainers. Retrieved from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
4. BLS. (2021, April 9). Exercise physiologists. Retrieved from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
5. BLS. (2021, May 24). Fitness trainers and instructors. Retrieved from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
6. BLS. (2021, April 8). Occupational therapists. Retrieved from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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