Are you considering a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology? You’re not alone! The field of kinesiology and exercise science is growing at a rate of 6.4%, with nearly 30,000 degrees in the field having been awarded in the past year. With over half a million people currently working in this field and a growing number of positions available each year, it’s a smart decision for anyone who wants to contribute to the health and wellness of the general population while improving their own life both personally and professionally.

Here’s what you need to know about this degree path, so you can make the best of your journey toward a career in this industry:

What You’ll Study

Being a professional in the field of kinesiology and exercise science typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree. You will choose a focus of either exercise instruction and science or physical therapy, with each offering different opportunities for students. When you choose a kinesiology degree program from a university or school of health sciences, you’ll likely take on the following courses as part of your curriculum:

• Nutrition
• Biomechanics of the human body
• Coaching
• Human performance
• Pharmacology
• Exercise psychology
• Sport and team psychology
• Injury prevention in athletics
• The role of ethics and spirituality in athletics and exercise

You will likely also engage in fitness classes of your own throughout your program of study to ensure your own ability to perform the necessary tasks in this line of work. You’ll also have the opportunity to add elective credits into your course of study, but if you plan to make those credits work toward your degree, you may be able to use exercise courses and other industry-related classes to fill those requirements without detracting from your educational focus.

What You Can Do with Your Degree

There are many ways to put your Bachelor of Science in kinesiology to work for you after graduation. Of the many available positions currently in the workforce, over half are based in self-employment or private practice. Most of the rest originate in hospitals, gyms, and health clubs. Whenever you decide to work, you’ll perform similar duties. Some of the responsibilities of a kinesiologist include:

• Developing exercise of fitness programs for groups or individuals
• Leading exercise routines and classes
• Aid patients coping with or recovering from disease, disability, surgery, etc.
• Help clients set fitness and wellness goals and plan for success in meeting them

Some of the most common positions that allow you to put these tasks to work for clients include:

• Private or personal fitness training
• Psychical education instruction
• Community coordination for physical education or exercise programs
• Athletic club or gym instruction
• Occupational therapy
• Sports marketing advising
• Coaching or athletic mentoring
• Fitness center staff membership

What you can earn as an expert in kinesiology will vary based on many factors, including where you work, who you work for, and your overall clientele. Some of the top-paying positions for the field can net you six-figure incomes, while the median pay for the industry is closer to $50-60 thousand a year.