Top 15 Applied Exercise Science Jobs

Applied exercise science is an exciting field offering diverse career opportunities for individuals with a master’s degree. Whether your passion lies in fitness training, healthcare or corporate wellness, this degree opens doors to various career paths that leverage scientific knowledge to improve health, enhance performance and promote well-being. 

Below are 15 top careers you can pursue with a Master’s in Applied Exercise Science from  Concordia University Chicago, including details on responsibilities, salaries, and job stability.

1. Exercise Physiologist

Responsibilities: Exercise physiologists apply principles of exercise physiology to design and implement fitness programs for individuals recovering from chronic diseases or injuries. They assess a patient’s fitness level, develop tailored exercise plans and monitor progress.

Pros:

• Strong job stability in healthcare settings.
• Directly impacts patient health and recovery.

Salary: The average salary is $54,860 annually, though it can exceed $75,000 with experience and certifications.

Job Outlook: Projected growth is 10% through 2032, driven by increased awareness of exercise’s role in managing chronic conditions.

2. Strength and Conditioning Coach

Responsibilities: Certified strength and conditioning coaches work with athletes to improve physical performance. Duties include developing training regimens, focusing on injury prevention and enhancing strength and agility.

Pros:

• Opportunity to work in professional sports or collegiate athletics.
• A dynamic and competitive work environment.

Salary: Earnings vary by level, with the national average ranging from $60,527 to $84,575 annually.

Job Outlook: Growing interest in athlete optimization ensures consistent demand for certified strength and conditioning specialists.

3. Clinical Researcher

Responsibilities: Clinical researchers conduct studies to evaluate the effects of exercise and physical activity on various populations. They may work on groundbreaking projects related to rehabilitation, aging or chronic disease prevention. Many clinical researchers pursue further education to specialize in areas such as rehabilitation, aging or chronic disease prevention.

Pros:

• Intellectual stimulation and contribution to scientific advancements.
• Opportunities to publish findings and present at conferences.

Salary: The average salary is $72,742 per year, depending on the organization and scope of research.

Job Outlook: As exercise science gains recognition in healthcare, the need for research continues to grow.

4. Corporate Wellness Coordinator

Responsibilities: Corporate wellness coordinators develop and manage programs that promote employee health and wellness, contributing to overall public health. Duties include organizing fitness challenges, stress management workshops and health screenings.

Pros:

• Stable hours and corporate benefits.
• Improves workplace culture and employee productivity.

Salary: The average annual earnings for corporate wellness coordinators is $61,429 per year.

Job Outlook: Corporate wellness programs are increasingly popular, contributing to steady job growth.

5. Sports Scientist

Responsibilities: Sports scientists analyze data on human performance and athletic recovery to optimize training methods. They collaborate with coaches, athletes and medical staff to implement data-driven solutions.

Pros:

• Combines technology and athletics.
• Opportunities to work with elite athletes or teams.

Salary: The national average salary is $81,380, but experienced professionals can earn upwards of $100,000.

Job Outlook: Advances in sports analytics and biomechanics are fueling demand for this role.

6. Occupational Therapist (With Additional Training)

Responsibilities: Occupational therapists help patients develop, recover or improve the skills needed for daily living and working, often using exercise-based therapies.

Pros:

• High job stability in healthcare settings.
• Meaningful work with a direct impact on patients’ lives.

Salary: The average salary is $96,370 annually.

Job Outlook: Projected growth is 11% through 2033, driven by an aging population.

7. Rehabilitation Specialist

Responsibilities: Rehabilitation specialists work with individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries, helping them regain strength and mobility. They often collaborate with physical therapists and sports medicine professionals.

Pros:

• Hands-on role with patients.
• Opportunities to specialize in sports or geriatric rehabilitation.

Salary: The average annual salary for a rehabilitation specialist is $63,414.

Job Outlook: Demand is stable, particularly in outpatient and hospital settings.

8. Kinesiologist

Responsibilities: Kinesiologists focus on human movement and how it affects health. They develop exercise plans to improve mobility, reduce pain and prevent injury for various populations.

Pros:

• Diverse work environments, from clinics to wellness centers.
• Flexible opportunities to freelance or run a private practice.

Salary: The average salary is $76,039 annually, with potential for growth in private practice.

Job Outlook: Growing awareness of preventative healthcare ensures continued demand.

9. Fitness Director

Responsibilities:
Fitness directors oversee operations at gyms, wellness centers or sports facilities. They manage staff, design fitness programs and ensure member satisfaction.

Pros:

• Leadership opportunities in a fitness environment.
• High earning potential for top-tier facilities.

Salary: The average salary is $77,104 per year, with bonuses at larger organizations.

Job Outlook: Stable, with growth tied to fitness industry trends.

10. Sports Nutritionist

Responsibilities: Sports nutritionists develop dietary plans to help athletes optimize performance and recovery. They may work with teams, individuals or fitness facilities.

Pros:

• Combines knowledge of exercise science and nutrition.
• Opportunities to work with professional athletes.

Salary: The average salary is $71,723 annually, with potential for $90,000+ in high-profile roles.

Job Outlook: The increasing emphasis on nutrition in sports performance supports a steady demand for exercise science careers.

11. Biomechanist

Responsibilities: Biomechanists analyze human movement to improve performance, prevent injuries and design better equipment. They often work in sports, healthcare or research settings, focusing on how forces and mechanics interact with the body.

Pros:

• High relevance in both sports and healthcare industries.
• Opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology and research.

Salary: The average salary is $74,874 per year, with higher earning potential in specialized research or professional sports roles.

Job Outlook: The demand for biomechanists is growing as advancements in technology enhance the ability to study and improve human movement and performance.

12. Wellness Consultant

Responsibilities: Wellness consultants with an exercise science degree provide expert advice on creating and maintaining healthy lifestyles. They may work with individuals, corporations or community organizations to design wellness programs that incorporate exercise, nutrition and stress management strategies.

Pros:

• Flexible work opportunities, including freelance consulting.
• High demand in corporate settings and the wellness industry.

Salary: The average salary is $56,108 per year, with potential earnings exceeding $80,000 for experienced consultants or those in high-demand markets.

Job Outlook: As more organizations prioritize employee well-being, the demand for wellness consultants is expected to grow steadily.

13. Athletic Trainer

Responsibilities: Athletic trainers work closely with athletes to prevent injuries and assist in their recovery. They design and implement training programs, provide emergency care during sports events and educate athletes on injury prevention techniques.

Pros:

• Direct involvement in athletic training and recovery.
• Opportunities to work in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals and private practices.

Salary: The average salary for athletic trainers is $57,930 per year, with potential for higher earnings in professional sports settings.

Job Outlook: The demand for athletic trainers is expected to grow by 13% through 2033 driven by the increasing emphasis on sports safety and injury prevention.

14. Personal Trainer

Responsibilities: Personal trainers lead and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities. They assess clients’ fitness levels, design personalized fitness plans, monitor progress and provide education on fitness and health.

Pros:

• Flexible work environments, including gyms, studios and private practices.
• Opportunities to specialize in areas such as group fitness, personal training or sports conditioning.

Salary: Personal trainers earn an average of $68,270 annually, with potential for higher earnings through private sessions and specialized training programs.

Job Outlook: The fitness industry is growing, with a projected job growth of 15% through 2030, reflecting the increasing public interest in health and fitness.

15. Fitness Center Manager

Responsibilities: Fitness center managers oversee the daily operations and staff of fitness centers or gyms. They create work schedules, ensure best practices are followed and maintain a safe and clean environment for clients.

Pros:

• Leadership opportunities in a dynamic fitness environment.
• High earning potential, especially in top-tier facilities.

Salary: The average salary for fitness center managers is $67,641 per year, with potential bonuses in larger organizations.

Job Outlook: The demand for fitness center managers is stable, with growth tied to trends in the fitness industry and the increasing popularity of wellness centers.

Study Exercise Science at CUC

A Master’s in Applied Exercise Science offers a versatile foundation for impactful and rewarding careers. Whether you’re drawn to healthcare, sports or corporate wellness, this degree equips you with the skills to excel in diverse roles. With growing awareness of the importance of exercise and movement in health, these careers promise strong job stability and opportunities for advancement. 

Pursuing further education can enhance career prospects and professional growth in applied exercise science. Explore the programs at Concordia University Chicago to take the next step in your journey.