Is a Kinesiology Degree Worth It? (In-Depth Guide)

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement and physical activity.

A kinesiology degree provides students with a strong foundation in science, focusing on anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, motor control and more – all as they relate to human movement and health.

With a kinesiology degree, graduates can pursue careers in health and fitness, coaching, sports management, physical and occupational therapy, as well as other fields.

However, some question whether the cost of the degree and time invested is worthwhile compared to the career prospects and earning potential.

This article will take an in-depth look at kinesiology degrees, including potential jobs and salaries, to help you decide if pursuing this degree is the right choice.

An Overview of Kinesiology Degrees

Kinesiology is an interdisciplinary field, integrating knowledge from areas such as:

Kinesiology degrees are available at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate levels. Common majors include:

• Exercise Science
• Health Promotion
• Athletic Training
• Physical Education
• Sport and Exercise Psychology
• Biomechanics

Coursework blends scientific knowledge and practical skills through a mix of lectures, labs, internships, and field experiences.

For example, a class may study anatomy in the morning and run through strength training program design in the afternoon.

This well-rounded curriculum gives students the opportunity to critically analyze movement, understand the science behind exercise, and apply that knowledge to improve health, fitness and performance.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of the degree, let’s analyze the potential jobs and salaries in more detail.

Kinesiology Career Paths and Earning Potential

There is a wide variety of career options within kinesiology spanning healthcare, corporate wellness, coaching, education and more.

However, salaries can vary significantly.

Here is an overview of some of the top jobs in the field and corresponding national average salaries:

Entry-Level Jobs

Fitness Trainer

• Average Annual Salary: $40,393

Rehabilitation Aide

• Average Annual Salary: $32,012

Physical Education Teacher

• Average Annual Salary: $61,820

Mid-Level Jobs

Athletic Trainer

• Average Annual Salary: $52,940

Exercise Physiologist

• Average Annual Salary: $54,280

Strength and Conditioning Coach

• Average Annual Salary: $44,740

Advanced Jobs

Physical Therapist

• Average Annual Salary: $95,620

Occupational Therapist

• Average Annual Salary: $94,740

Sports Psychologist

• Average Annual Salary: $87,450

Kinesiology Professor

• Average Annual Salary: $82,790

As shown, there is significant variation in earning potential depending on the specific career path.

Entry-level jobs may start below $40,000 per year, while advanced roles can earn over $90,000 annually.

In general, pursuing higher levels of education and certification, such as a master’s or doctorate, leads to increased salary potential.

Experience level also impacts wages.

However, factors like geographic location, facility type, budget and reputation also contribute to salary ranges.

Research your target role and region for a more tailored estimate.

Now that we’ve explored the degree and career outlook, we’ll analyze the costs and time investment of earning this education.

Costs and Time Commitment of a Kinesiology Degree

Pursuing higher education requires a serious commitment in both money and time.

Understanding these costs are key when weighing if the degree will pay off down the road.

Here is an overview of typical expenses and program durations:

Bachelor’s Degree

• Time to Complete: 4 years
• Average Annual Tuition (Public College): $10,338
• Average Annual Tuition (Private College): $36,801

Master’s Degree

• Time to Complete: 2 years
• Average Annual Tuition (Public College): $12,817
• Average Annual Tuition (Private College): $25,797

Doctorate Degree

• Time to Complete: 3-5 years
• Average Annual Tuition (Public College): $22,897
• Average Annual Tuition (Private College): $60,954

These estimates indicate completing a kinesiology bachelor’s degree at a public university costs approximately $41,352 while a private university totals $147,204 or more.

Further graduate studies significantly increase costs in both time and money.

These investments may pay off with higher salaries down the road, but financing this education can be challenging.

Various scholarships, grants, work-study programs and student loans can offset expenses.

Thoughtfully weighing tuition costs against career goals is key when deciding if pursuing this field of study makes financial sense for your situation.

Key Considerations When Deciding if a Kinesiology Degree is Worth it

By now you understand the basics of kinesiology degrees, potential salary ranges and costs.

Here are some final considerations when deciding if pursuing this education is right for you:

Career Opportunities

While job growth is projected in healthcare and fitness, evaluate if opportunities match your specific interests.

Getting experience in the field before committing to an expensive degree can be wise.

Program Quality and Specializations

Research programs in-depth and seek hands-on learning.

Specialized degrees in areas like exercise science or physical therapy may open more career doors.

Cost and Finances

Have an honest conversation about affording education costs now or accruing loan debt you’ll pay back for years.

Scholarships and work-study programs can help offset expenses.

Time Commitment

Earning an undergraduate or graduate degree is no small feat.

Evaluate if you are ready to devote the next two to seven years studying if it will pay off with your dream job.

Career Advancement Requirements

Some fields like physical therapy require advanced certification and licensing beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Make sure you understand and can commit to all education levels demanded for your desired occupation.

By carefully weighing these elements, you can determine if the cost and time investment of a kinesiology degree matches your career ambitions.

Speak to academic advisors and professionals in your target field if you have more specific questions.

Now that we’ve covered all the key considerations around kinesiology degrees, let’s wrap up with some frequently asked questions.

FAQ: Additional Questions About Kinesiology Degrees

Here are answers to some common kinesiology degree questions:

What jobs can you get with a bachelor’s in kinesiology?

At the bachelor’s level, those with kinesiology degrees often pursue careers as fitness trainers, coaching assistants, rehabilitation technicians, athletic recruiters or physical education teachers.

Is a kinesiology degree useless?

Kinesiology degrees are not useless, but career prospects can be limited at the bachelor’s level.

Earning advanced certifications and degrees improves hiring potential and salaries.

Is it hard to find a job with a kinesiology degree?

Finding a well-paying job with only a bachelor’s in kinesiology can be challenging.

Experience, networking, specialized certifications and graduate degrees are assets when job hunting.

What can you do with a kinesiology master’s?

A master’s degree in kinesiology prepares individuals to become athletic trainers, clinical exercise physiologists, physical therapy assistants, cardiac rehabilitation specialists, and more.

Is kinesiology a good pre-med major?

Kinesiology is an excellent pre-med major because the focus on science and anatomy provides a strong foundation for medical school.

Many pre-med students choose this as their undergraduate area of study.

Is kinesiology the same as exercise science?

Kinesiology and exercise science degrees have considerable overlap in their curriculum surrounding anatomy, physiology and biomechanics.

However, kinesiology takes a broader look at human movement overall.

Conclusion: Evaluate Your Goals Before Deciding

When weighing if a kinesiology degree is worthwhile, carefully consider potential career opportunities against the costs incurred.

While salary outlooks vary widely, those committed to advancing their education and skills can find success.

Experience, specializations and networking are also key assets.

Evaluate if your interests align with healthcare, fitness, coaching or other domains where movement science takes center stage.

Getting real-world exposure in your target field before committing to an expensive degree can give helpful perspective.

By reflecting on your professional ambitions, financial situation and willingness to devote the next four-plus years studying, you can determine if a kinesiology degree is the right investment in your future.