Knowing how to improve or maintain fitness is challenging, especially after an injury or hospitalization. Thankfully, there are trained exercise physiologists nationwide with extensive education on how to help patients and clients meet their fitness and mobility goals.
Exercise physiologists are healthcare professionals who develop customized exercise plans for patients or clients. They utilize medical equipment to perform fitness and stress tests. They then analyze the data collected to evaluate the client’s abilities to set fitness goals. Often, exercise physiologists work with the patient to teach them the exercises. They perform periodic assessments to ensure the program is working and the client is on track to meeting their goals.
Growth for jobs in exercise physiology is set to outpace the national average. Between 2022 and 2032, there are expected to be 1,700 new jobs nationally in this career (Bureau of Labor Statistics 2023). More than half of exercise physiologists are self-employed, while the rest work in rehabilitation centers, clinics, corporate wellness programs, and hospitals. Professionals in this field can expect to earn $55,820 annually (BLS May 2022).
Continue reading to learn more about a career as an exercise physiologist, including licensing options, degree programs, job duties, and steps needed to enter this field.
Exercise Physiologist Specializations & Degree Types
Exercise physiologists generally have obtained a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, exercise physiology, or a related health science field such as kinesiology. Often the programs will include concentrations such as human performance, strength and conditioning, or sports medicine.
Master’s degrees are also an option, and they can be clinical (for those who want to work with acute or chronic injuries under the direction of a physician) or applied (for professionals who want to work with healthy individuals to prevent illness or disease).
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Admissions Requirements for Exercise Physiology Programs
Exercise physiology programs require students to graduate from high school or complete a GED to apply for admission. While requirements will vary from institution to institution, most schools expect that students have completed high school math, English, and science courses. AP or college credit courses will give students an advantage when starting school because they will already earn credits.
Some schools, such as South Dakota State, require that students complete prerequisite general education courses for the first two years at college and then apply to be admitted to the program for the last two years.
Master’s programs require students to have completed an undergraduate degree and generally expect some work experience, GRE scores, a competitive GPA, letters of reference, essays, and other materials.
Exercise Physiology Program Accreditation
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) is the leading authority in accrediting exercise physiology and exercise science programs. The American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) also accredits programs, and students who have completed an ASEP-accredited program are eligible to sit for the ASEP certification exam.
Students should ensure that the program they are attending is accredited as accredited programs meet standardized programmatic requirements ensuring that students receive similar education at different institutions. Also, accredited institutions make transferring credits between institutions easier should the student need to switch schools. Accreditation can also make licensing easier as the program is of a minimum standard.
Whether or not an aspiring exercise physiologist attends a CAAHEP-approved program, they should ensure that all of their institutions of choice have been accredited by a reputable authority—one which has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education’s Commission for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
On-Campus Exercise Physiology Degree Programs
University of New England, Westbrook – College of Health Professions
The University of New England’s bachelor of science (BS) in applied exercise science combines classroom lectures with hands-on learning to provide students with a practical education that prepares them to take the national certification tests. Students who complete this program will be ready for entry-level employment in exercise physiology.
Over 90 percent of graduating students in 2018 were employed or accepted to graduate school within six months of graduating. They also offer master’s degrees and guarantee provisional admission to graduating undergraduate students who meet programmatic standards.
This 120 to 122-credit program includes courses such as introduction to applied exercise science; nutrition; motor learning and performance; kinesiology and biomechanics; fitness evaluation and prescription; clinical exercise testing and prescription; concepts of strength and conditioning; exercise management for chronic disease & disability; and metabolism and bioenergetics of sport nutrition.
- Location: Portland, ME
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
- Estimated Tuition: $41,050 per year
South Dakota State – College of Education and Human Sciences
If a student is seeking employment in the field of exercise physiology, a bachelor of science in exercise science at South Dakota State can prepare them. This program’s goal is to create professionals who have a strong working understanding of the science behind movement and how it can be used to help patients and clients meet their activity goals.
Students in this program can sit for the certified exercise physiologist exam offered through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) during their final year.
Admission is competitive, and students will need to complete prerequisite courses in biology, anatomy, and physiology before applying. Applications to the major can be submitted at the end of the student’s sophomore year and must include letters of recommendation and answers to the self-evaluation questions.
Made up of 120 credits, the program includes courses such as motivational interviewing and wellness counseling; prevention and care of athletic injuries; exercise tests and prescriptions; group exercise and facility management; biomechanics; and ECG and clinical stress testing.
- Location: Brookings, SD
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
- Estimated Tuition: SD resident ($3,887 per semester); non-resident ($5,642 per semester)
Bloomsburg University – College of Health Professions
A master of science (MS) in applied exercise physiology from Bloomsburg University will prepare students for professional careers, doctoral studies, or research opportunities. Students in this program complete graduate courses in exercise science with clinical and research internships.
Courses required to complete this 39-credit program include exercise nutrition and metabolism; current issues in exercise science; and the mechanics of human movement. A practicum, which provides hands-on learning, or a thesis, which develops a student’s research skills, is also required for graduation.
Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree in biology or health sciences with a 3.0 GPA or higher and prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and exercise physiology.
- Location: Bloomsburg, PA
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Expected Time to Completion: One to two years
- Estimated Tuition: Contact the university for details
University of Louisville – College of Education and Human Development
At the University of Louisville, faculty help students in the master of science (MS) in exercise physiology program become high-quality scientists who excel at research, theory, and application of physiological mechanisms. Students can choose to complete a thesis or a non-thesis program. A concentration in strength and conditioning is also an option.
The curriculum gives students the background and education to sit for the national certification exams from the ACSM and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). In 2022, 83 percent of students who took a national exam passed on their first attempt. In 2021, 100 percent of students who took a national exam passed on their first attempt. Students need to apply for admission by March 1st for a fall start date and will need to submit transcripts, GRE scores, and three letters of recommendation to be considered.
Made up of 39 credits, the program includes courses such as athlete monitoring and data management; nutrition and athletic performance; applied exercise physiology; clinical exercise physiology; exercise biochemistry; neuromuscular exercise physiology; and advanced cardiorespiratory physiology with ECG.
- Location: Louisville, KY
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
- Estimated Tuition: Resident ($791 per credit); non-resident ($1,606 per credit)
Marquette University College of Health Sciences
Students pursuing an undergraduate degree in exercise physiology at Marquette University College of Health Sciences have several options. They can pick an exercise physiology track for those entering the field directly post-college, a pre-professional track for those pursuing further education, a direct-to-a-doctor in physical therapy, or an accelerated master’s of science track. With an eye to what’s next, this program prepares students seamlessly for their future goals.
As part of this program, all students will earn a basic life support certification including CPR and AED training. Other required coursework includes an introduction to exercise science; principles of human anatomy; kinesiology/biomechanics; exercise physiology; exercise testing and prescription; nutrition and exercise performance; clinical exercise physiology; and administration in exercise science. All Marquette University students can choose the exercise physiology and pre-professional tracks without additional admission requirements. There are additional requirements for the direct-to-DT and accelerated master’s programs.
- Location: Milwaukee, WI
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
- Estimated Tuition: $47,690 per year
Online or Hybrid Exercise Physiology Degree Programs
CAAHEP requires that accredited exercise science and exercise physiology programs culminate with an internship. Due to this requirement, no CAAHEP programs offer distance learning. However, many programs offer distance learning that can prepare professionals for this career, and some even qualify students for certification.
Maryville University offers students the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s of science in exercise science 100 percent online. This 128-semester hour credit program is designed for students who cannot relocate, are currently working, or have family obligations but want to enter the field of exercise science. Students can enter this program directly from high school or as a transfer student from another institution.
There are two concentrations in this program. They are wellness management and strength and conditioning. Students can choose either concentration or complete general studies. All students must take core courses such as introduction to exercise science; stress management; care and prevention of injuries; health and exercise psychology; movement in health and exercise; nutrition of exercise management; virtual fitness and health; exercise-related pharmacology; and fitness management.
- Location: St. Louis, MO
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
- Estimated Tuition: $525 per credit
Aspiring exercise physiologists who have already completed an undergraduate degree can continue their studies with Concordia University Chicago’s online master’s of applied exercise science. This program can be completed in as little as a year and a half of full-time distance learning coursework.
The five concentrations to choose from are human movement science; sports nutrition; sports performance training; strength and conditioning; and exercise physiology. Students can complete a dual degree with just 12 extra credits of coursework.
Concordia University Chicago offers all students a Tuition Promise, whereby a student’s tuition will not increase while they complete their degree as long as they have continuous enrollment. This keeps tuition rates extremely affordable.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Expected Time to Completion: 18 months
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Estimated Tuition: $575 per credit
University of North Carolina Wilmington School of Health & Applied Human Sciences
Students interested in applying scientific principles to fitness, health, wellness, and exercise will find the bachelor of science in exercise science at the University of North Carolina Wilmington School of Health & Applied Human Sciences to be a good option. This program is in a hybrid format, with many classes offered online. Students can choose which courses will best suit their needs and help them balance school work, family life, and work.
Admission requirements for this program include 24 semester hours of coursework at UNC or another institution, prerequisite coursework, and at least a 2.7 GPA.
Students in this program will have two concentration options: allied health and exercise physiology certification. The curriculum includes courses such as research methods in exercise science; research & evaluation methods in human services; exercise physiology; biomechanics; sports nutrition; exercise prescription; and facilitating behavior change.
- Location: Wilmington, NC
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Four years
- Estimated Tuition: $185.13 per credit
Concordia University, St. Paul
The online bachelor’s of arts in exercise science degree completion program at Concordia University, St. Paul is designed for adult students with busy schedules. This program assumes that students have already completed their general education coursework and focuses exclusively on exercise science-related courses. Classes are taught asynchronously, allowing students to choose when and how they want to complete their coursework. All classes are short eight-week courses.
Required courses for this program include sport and exercise psychology; biomechanics; sports business; applied nutrition; exercise physiology; functional anatomy; motor development, control & motor learning; and exercise assessment. Students must also complete an internship to graduate. Ninety-five percent of graduates of this program were employed in exercise science within one year of graduating.
- Location: St. Paul, MN
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
- Estimated Tuition: $420 per credit
Liberty University School of Health Sciences
The online master’s in exercise science and wellness at Liberty University School of Health Sciences prepares graduates for a career in helping individuals address wellness, exercise, and health concerns. The fully remote courses are taught by faculty who are experts in biomechanics, physiology, wellness, and science. As Liberty University is a religious school, Christian worldviews and biblical principles are included in most classes.
Within the master’s in exercise science, students can concentrate on fitness and performance or nutrition and wellness. Students complete 15 credits in core coursework and an additional 18 in their desired concentration. Admission requirements include an already completed bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, and a completed application.
This 33-credit program includes core courses such as advanced exercise physiology; statistical analysis in exercise science; research methods in exercise science; fitness assessment & programming; and principles of nutrition.
- Location: Lynchburg, VA
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: 18 months
- Estimated Tuition: $565 per credit
How Long Does it Take to Become an Exercise Physiologist?
On average, it takes a little more than four postsecondary years to become an exercise physiologist. Students can sit for their licensing exams without work experience, making the path toward becoming fully licensed professionals seamless.
How To Become an Exercise Physiologist – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED Program (Four Years)
Undergraduate programs require that students have completed high school or obtained a GED before admission. Students who want to pursue this career will find that science, psychology, and math courses will help prepare them for undergraduate studies. High school AP courses and college credit classes can give students an advantage by helping them complete college prerequisites before graduating.
Step 2: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree (four Years)
Most exercise physiologists have completed a four-year bachelor’s of science in exercise science, exercise physiology, or kinesiology. Many programs have practicum or internship requirements that will give students hands-on experience.
Step 3: Complete CPR Certification (timelines Vary)
Employers and certification bodies will often require exercise physiologists to obtain and maintain CPR certification. The certification should include a hands-on component. The Red Cross offers classes nationwide, among other organizations.
Step 4: Obtain Professional Certification (Timelines Vary)
Professionals can pursue certification through two main entities: the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) offers the exercise physiologist (EP) credential and the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) provides the exercise physiologist certified (EPC) designation.
Step 5: Secure Entry-Level Employment in the Field (Timelines Vary)
Aspiring exercise physiologists can secure entry-level employment at hospitals, government offices, clinics, and corporate wellness programs. Job boards at ACSM and ASEP are great places to start the job search.
Step 6: Pursue a Master’s Degree (Optional, One to Two Years)
Professionals in this field looking to stand out for advancement opportunities or new jobs can complete a master’s degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or exercise physiology. Upon completion of a master’s degree, students can sit for the exam to become certified clinical exercise physiologists (ACSM-CEP)—the most advanced credential in the field.
What Do Exercise Physiologists Do?
Exercise physiologists work in clinics, corporate wellness programs, rehabilitation facilities, hospitals, and government agencies. Their job duties can include:
- Evaluate a patient or client’s medical history to assess the risk of injury, determine the best exercises, and prepare a fitness regime
- Utilize medical equipment to perform fitness and stress tests
- Analyze data collected to evaluate the abilities of the client or patient
- Create customized exercise programs to improve patient or client health
- Use patient health indicators such as heart rate, blood pressure, and pulse to inform and adapt the fitness program
- Educate clients about physical fitness
- Assist clients or patients in performing their prescribed exercises
Exercise Physiology Certifications & Licensure
Exercise physiologists have two licensing bodies. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) offers certification as an exercise physiologist (ACSM-EP) for those who have completed a bachelor’s degree. The requirements to sit for this exam include at least 21 semester or 28 quarter hours of coursework in exercise science.
The ACSM also offers a certified clinical exercise physiologist (ACSM-CEP) for those who have completed more training. The requirements to sit for his exam include a master’s degree in clinical exercise physiology or equivalent and 600 hours of hands-on clinical experience or a bachelor’s degree in exercise science-related field and 1,200 hours of hands-on clinical experience.
Both exams cost $339 for ACSM members and $449 for non-members.
The American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) offers an exercise physiologist certified (EPC) designation to candidates who have a degree in exercise physiology or a related field and have completed the required coursework. Candidates must be ASEP members to sit for this exam. The cost of the exam is $300. Students who have graduated from an ASEP-accredited program receive a discount, and the exam is only $50.
Currently, there are no state licensing requirements for exercise physiologists. However, this can change due to ever-evolving state regulations. Aspiring professionals in this field should check with their state boards to ensure they have the necessary credentials to practice.
How Much Do Exercise Physiologists Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS May 2022), exercise physiologists earn $55,820 per year on average. The percentiles for wages are:
| United States | |
|---|---|
| Number employed in the U.S. | 6,580 |
| Average Annual Salary | $55,820 |
| 10th Percentile | $39,250 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,070 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $51,350 |
| 75th Percentile | $62,850 |
| 90th Percentile | $77,980 |
Openings in this profession are expected to grow 9 percent nationally between 2021 and 2031, adding 1,900 jobs nationwide.
Exercise Physiologist Career Alternatives
Here are a few alternatives to a career as an exercise physiologist.
Become a Physical Therapist
Physical therapists provide rehabilitative care to patients who have suffered an injury, neurological disorder, or birth defects. They can also provide preventative care to athletes or to individuals who move a lot for their jobs. Typical duties include assessments, hands-on treatments, facilitating exercises to gain strength, and assigning home exercises to patients.
- Typical Education: Doctor of physical therapy (DPT)
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Board of Physical Therapist Specialties
Become an Athletic Trainer
Professional sports teams, collegiate athletics, and even some high school sports employ athletic trainers to help their athletes get and stay in top shape. Some athletic trainers may work in physical therapy clinics providing care to clients who have an injury. Professionals in this field must have at least a master’s degree.
- Typical Education: Varies
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC)
Become a Licensed Massage Therapist
Massage therapists provide hands-on therapeutic treatment for clients by manipulating tissue and muscles. They can work to prevent or rehabilitate from injury with a deep tissue massage or provide a more relaxing experience with lighter pressure. They can use various other techniques depending on their training, including acupressure, hot stones, aromatherapy, Thai, or reflexology.
- Typical Education: Certificate
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP)
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterAt HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.