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Discover the Best Online Exercise Science Degree Programs

Explore our comprehensive rankings and career paths in exercise science to find your path to success.

Associate Degree Rankings

Start your journey with top-rated Associate programs in Exercise Science.

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree Rankings

Discover leading Bachelor's programs in Exercise Science

Bachelor's Degree

Master's Degree Rankings

Advance your career with top Master's degrees in Exercise Science

Master's Degree

Explore Modern Career Paths in Exercise Science

Discover the most in-demand carers in Exercise Science.

Evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses. Provide preventive, therapeutic, emergency, and rehabilitative care.

Assess, plan, or implement fitness programs that include exercise or physical activities such as those designed to improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, or flexibility.

Assess, plan, or implement fitness programs that include exercise or physical activities such as those designed to improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, or flexibility.

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise.

Health Educator

Hot Career

Provide and manage health education programs that help individuals, families, and their communities maximize and maintain healthy lifestyles. Use data to identify community needs prior to planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating programs designed to encourage healthy lifestyles, policies, and environments. May link health systems, health providers, insurers, and patients to address individual and population health needs. May serve as resource to assist individuals, other health professionals, or the community, and may administer fiscal resources for health education programs.

Nutritionist

Hot Career

Plan and conduct food service or nutritional programs to assist in the promotion of health and control of disease. May supervise activities of a department providing quantity food services, counsel individuals, or conduct nutritional research.

Assist occupational therapists in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, direct activity programs, and document the progress of treatments. Generally requires formal training.

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise.

Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.

Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.

Discover Exercise Science Resources

Quickly navigate to essential information pages regarding online Exercise Science programs.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Discover typical costs of attendance and financial aid options when pursuing a degree in Exercise Science.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Admission and Requirements

Discover what it takes to get into the top ranked schools for Exercise Science.

Admission and Requirements

Accreditation

Learn more about how online Exercise Science programs are accredited and what it means for you.

Accreditation

FAQs

Answers to common questions about obtaining an online degree in Exercise Science.

FAQs

Top Career Paths by Salary for Exercise Science in 2024

CareerAnnual Median SalaryHourly Median Salary

Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Brief Overview of Online Exercise Science Degree Programs

Embarking on an Online Exercise Science Degree Program offers a flexible and comprehensive pathway to understanding the complexities of human movement, wellness, and sports performance. As you consider your options, here are key elements to keep in mind about these programs:

  • Curriculum: Online Exercise Science programs typically cover a range of subjects including anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and exercise psychology. You'll gain insights into how exercise affects the body and learn to design effective fitness programs.

  • Program Levels: These degrees are available at various levels:

    • Associate's Degrees provide a foundation in exercise science, often leading to entry-level roles or a stepping stone to further education.
    • Bachelor's Degrees delve deeper into the science and practice of exercise, preparing graduates for careers as fitness trainers, coaches, or wellness coordinators.
    • Master's Degrees focus on advanced topics such as exercise physiology and research methods, equipping students for specialized positions or doctoral studies.
  • Flexibility: One of the greatest advantages of online programs is their flexibility. Many are designed for working professionals and allow you to:

    • Study at your own pace
    • Access course materials at any time
    • Balance your studies with personal and professional commitments
  • Accreditation: Ensure that the program you choose is accredited by recognized bodies such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES). Accreditation is crucial for ensuring quality education and can be a prerequisite for certain certifications.

  • Career Opportunities: Graduates with an online degree in Exercise Science can pursue various career paths, including:

    • Personal training
    • Strength and conditioning coaching
    • Corporate wellness
    • Cardiac rehabilitation
  • Certifications: Alongside your degree, obtaining certifications from organizations like the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) can enhance your employability.

  • Student Support Services: Quality online programs offer robust support services such as academic advising, tutoring, career services, and technical assistance to ensure student success.

Our algorithm takes all these factors into account when ranking programs, providing you with a list of the best online exercise science degree programs based on affordability, outcomes, accessibility, student support services, accreditation, flexibility, and reputation. This ensures you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about which program aligns best with your goals.

Typical Tasks for Careers in Exercise Science

  • Adapt instructional techniques to the age and skill levels of students.

  • Adjust coaching techniques, based on the strengths and weaknesses of athletes.

  • Advise clients or community groups on issues related to improving general health, such as diet or exercise.

  • Analyze and interpret statistical data to identify significant differences in relationships among sources of information.

  • Analyze clinical or survey data, using statistical approaches such as longitudinal analysis, mixed-effect modeling, logistic regression analyses, and model-building techniques.

  • Analyze storm water systems to identify opportunities for water resource improvements.

Online Exercise Science Degree Program FAQs

What is an Online Exercise Science Degree?

An online exercise science degree is a program that offers comprehensive knowledge and training in the field of exercise science, but through a digital platform. It covers subjects such as biomechanics, physiology, wellness, and nutrition. Students can expect to engage in coursework that prepares them for careers in fitness, rehabilitation, wellness coaching, and more.

Who Should Enroll in an Online Exercise Science Program?

  • Individuals with a passion for fitness, sports, and health.
  • Those looking for a flexible learning schedule that can accommodate other commitments.
  • Career changers aiming to enter the health and fitness industry.
  • Professionals in the field seeking advancement through additional credentials.

What Can You Do with an Online Exercise Science Degree?

Graduates can pursue various career paths including:

  • Personal trainer or fitness instructor
  • Strength and conditioning coach
  • Wellness coordinator
  • Exercise physiologist
  • Rehabilitation specialist
  • Corporate wellness consultant

Is an Online Exercise Science Degree Respected by Employers?

Yes, employers respect online degrees, especially when they are from accredited institutions. Our ranking algorithm includes program reputation to ensure the degrees listed have industry recognition.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Exercise Science Degree?

The completion time can vary based on several factors:

  • Part-time vs. full-time enrollment
  • Accelerated program options
  • Prior learning credits or transfer credits Typically, it takes about 4 years for full-time students to complete a bachelor's degree.

What Accreditations Should I Look for in an Online Exercise Science Program?

Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies such as:

  • Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
  • Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)

How Does Online Learning Work for Exercise Science Degrees?

Online learning typically involves:

  • Virtual lectures and discussions
  • Interactive assignments and case studies
  • Remote collaboration with peers and instructors
  • Access to digital libraries and resources

Are There Opportunities for Hands-On Experience in an Online Program?

Many programs incorporate practical experience through:

  • Virtual simulations
  • Internships or practicums that can be completed locally
  • Research projects

How Do I Choose the Best Online Exercise Science Program for Me?

Consider these factors when choosing a program:

  • Your career goals and interests
  • The curriculum and specialization options
  • The program's accreditation status
  • Affordability and financial aid opportunities
  • Flexibility of the course schedule
  • Student support services offered

What Types of Classes Will I Take in an Online Exercise Science Program?

Your coursework will likely include subjects such as:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Kinesiology and biomechanics
  • Exercise prescription and assessment
  • Nutrition and metabolism
  • Sports psychology

Remember, our proprietary algorithm considers affordability, program outcomes, accessibility, student support services, accreditation, flexibility, and program reputation to help you find the best online exercise science degree programs available.

Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Exercise Science

Accounting software

  • Intuit QuickBooks
  • Sage 50 Accounting

Analytical or scientific software

  • IBM SPSS Statistics
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Basic Skills

  • Figuring out how to use new ideas or things
  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

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