Intro
Unlock career opportunities with a kinesiology degree. Discover the best jobs in kinesiology, from sports management and athletic training to occupational therapy and health education. Explore various kinesiology career paths, salary ranges, and growth prospects. Get expert insights on how to turn your passion for human movement into a rewarding profession.
The field of kinesiology, which is the study of human movement and exercise, is a fascinating and rewarding career path for those who are passionate about health, fitness, and wellness. With a degree in kinesiology, individuals can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, sports, and research. In this article, we will explore some of the most in-demand jobs with a kinesiology degree, including their job descriptions, salary ranges, and required skills.
What Can You Do With a Kinesiology Degree?
A kinesiology degree can lead to various career paths, from working with athletes to helping individuals with disabilities. Here are some of the most popular jobs with a kinesiology degree:
1. Athletic Trainer
Athletic trainers work with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries. They also develop conditioning programs to improve athletic performance. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for athletic trainers is $48,440.
- Required skills: First aid and CPR certification, knowledge of athletic injuries and rehabilitation, communication skills
- Salary range: $40,000 - $60,000 per year
2. Exercise Physiologist
Exercise physiologists design exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. They also conduct research on the effects of exercise on the body. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $50,540 for exercise physiologists.
- Required skills: Knowledge of exercise science, research methods, communication skills
- Salary range: $40,000 - $70,000 per year
3. Physical Therapist
Physical therapists work with patients to improve mobility, strength, and function after injury or illness. They also educate patients on proper exercise techniques and safety precautions. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for physical therapists is $89,440.
- Required skills: Doctoral degree in physical therapy, licensure, communication skills
- Salary range: $60,000 - $100,000 per year
4. Fitness Director
Fitness directors oversee fitness programs and staff at gyms, recreation centers, and other fitness facilities. They also develop marketing strategies to promote programs and services. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $53,810 for fitness directors.
- Required skills: Knowledge of exercise science, business management, communication skills
- Salary range: $40,000 - $70,000 per year
5. Sports Coach
Sports coaches work with athletes to improve performance, develop skills, and build teamwork. They also create practice plans and game strategies. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for sports coaches is $43,950.
- Required skills: Knowledge of sports, communication skills, leadership skills
- Salary range: $30,000 - $60,000 per year
Jobs in Healthcare
Kinesiology graduates can also pursue careers in healthcare, including:
1. Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists work with patients to develop skills for daily living, such as dressing, feeding, and grooming. They also create adaptive equipment to assist patients with disabilities. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for occupational therapists is $84,950.
- Required skills: Master's degree in occupational therapy, licensure, communication skills
- Salary range: $60,000 - $100,000 per year
2. Rehabilitation Counselor
Rehabilitation counselors work with patients to develop plans for rehabilitation, including counseling, education, and job training. They also connect patients with community resources. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for rehabilitation counselors is $38,640.
- Required skills: Master's degree in rehabilitation counseling, certification, communication skills
- Salary range: $30,000 - $60,000 per year
Jobs in Education
Kinesiology graduates can also pursue careers in education, including:
1. Physical Education Teacher
Physical education teachers develop and teach physical education programs for students, including sports, fitness, and health education. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for physical education teachers is $62,870.
- Required skills: Bachelor's degree in physical education, teaching certification, communication skills
- Salary range: $40,000 - $90,000 per year
2. Health Education Specialist
Health education specialists develop and teach health education programs for schools, communities, and healthcare organizations. They also create educational materials and resources. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for health education specialists is $55,220.
- Required skills: Bachelor's degree in health education, certification, communication skills
- Salary range: $40,000 - $80,000 per year
Jobs in Research
Kinesiology graduates can also pursue careers in research, including:
1. Research Scientist
Research scientists conduct research on human movement, exercise, and health. They also analyze data and publish research findings. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for research scientists is $62,900.
- Required skills: Doctoral degree in kinesiology or related field, research experience, communication skills
- Salary range: $50,000 - $100,000 per year
2. Biomechanist
Biomechanists study human movement and develop equipment and devices to improve athletic performance and reduce injury. They also conduct research on human biomechanics. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for biomechanists is $71,130.
- Required skills: Master's degree in biomechanics or related field, research experience, communication skills
- Salary range: $50,000 - $100,000 per year
Conclusion
A degree in kinesiology can lead to a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, sports, and research. From working with athletes to helping individuals with disabilities, kinesiology graduates can make a positive impact on people's lives. Whether you're interested in working in a clinical setting, teaching physical education, or conducting research, a kinesiology degree can provide the foundation for a rewarding and challenging career.
What is kinesiology?
+Kinesiology is the study of human movement and exercise. It involves the study of the physiological, biomechanical, and psychological aspects of human movement.
What can I do with a kinesiology degree?
+A kinesiology degree can lead to various career opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, sports, and research. Some examples of jobs with a kinesiology degree include athletic trainer, exercise physiologist, physical therapist, fitness director, and sports coach.
How much can I earn with a kinesiology degree?
+Salaries for kinesiology graduates vary depending on the career path and industry. However, median annual salaries for kinesiology graduates range from $40,000 to over $100,000 per year.