Careers in Kinesiology
The University of Connecticut's Department of Kinesiology offers a range of programs aimed at studying human movement and its impact on health, fitness, and performance. Such as a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, a Master of Science (M.S.) in Exercise Science, a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT), a Master of Science in Exercise Prescription, and a graduate certificate in Exercise Prescription. The department also offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in in Kinesiology with a concentration in Exercise Science and a clinical doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT).
Opportunities with a Bachelor's in Exercise Science
Personal Trainer/Fitness Instructor
With a degree in Exercise Science, you can work as a personal trainer in gyms, fitness centers, or as a freelance trainer.
You would design exercise programs tailored to individual clients' needs, provide guidance on proper techniques, and motivate clients to achieve their fitness goals
Research Assistant/Tech
You could work as a research assistant or technician in academic institutions, hospitals, or research organizations, assisting with studies related to exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports performance, or health promotion.
The Department of Kinesiology at UConn also conducts research in various areas related to human movement and offers opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning experiences through internships, clinical placements, and research projects
Sport Performance
You could work with athletes to improve strength, speed, agility, endurance, and overall physical conditioning by focuses on optimizing athletic ability through science-based training, data analysis, and performance enhancement strategies.
Careers in sport performance are diverse, ranging from hands-on Strength and Conditioning Coaching to analytical roles, such as a Performance and Sport Scientist, that leverage data to drive athletic success.
Available Certifications:
Certifications are available through National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
Some Exercise Science graduates pursue careers in occupational health and safety, particularly in industries where physical fitness and ergonomic factors are important.
You might assess workplace environments, develop injury prevention strategies, and promote employee wellness programs.
Interested in getting involved with research in this area? Check out the Korey Stringer Institute here at UConn
Clinical Exercise Physiologist/Cardiac Rehab Specialist
Clinical exercise physiologists work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers.
They design exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases, disabilities, or injuries, aiming to improve their physical function, manage symptoms, and enhance overall quality of life.
Many students go into Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab positions as an Exercise Physiologist/Clinical Exercise Physiologist.
Available certifications:
Available through ACSM including Certified Exercise Physiologist
and Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Corporate Wellness Coordinator
Many companies have wellness programs aimed at promoting employee health and productivity.
As a corporate wellness coordinator, you would develop and implement initiatives such as fitness challenges, nutrition education, and stress management programs within the workplace.
Available certifications:
Success Stories
Choosing to be an Exercise Science major at UConn was the best decision I could have made. The constant support and guidance I received from my advisor and professors alike was pivotal in my acceptance to DPT programs. I feel extremely prepared and confident as I take my next steps to pursue a career in physical therapy, and I have UConn Exercise Science to thank!
Graduate Opportunities
A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Exercise Science can also serve as a strong foundation for various graduate programs that further specialize in areas related to kinesiology, exercise physiology, sports science, rehabilitation, and public health.
Exercise Science/Exercise Physiology
Master's
- Offers a broad curriculum covering topics such as biomechanics, motor control, exercise psychology, and sports nutrition. Students can specialize in areas like exercise science, sport management, biomechanics, or motor behavior, depending on their career goals.
- Can focus on advanced study of exercise physiology, including topics such as cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength and endurance, metabolism, and the physiological responses to exercise. Graduates may pursue careers as exercise physiologists in clinical, research, or fitness settings
Doctorate
- Students interested in research or academia may pursue doctoral programs in fields such as exercise science, kinesiology, sports medicine, or health promotion. Doctoral studies typically involve advanced coursework, independent research, and the completion of a dissertation.
Masters in Exercise Prescription
- For students currently in, or seeking to transition into, the fields of Exercise Science, Sports Medicine, Kinesiology, Personal Training, Exercise Physiology, or Health and Fitness looking to enhance their professional credentials or pursue an advanced degree in a rapidly growing field.
- UConn’s Exercise Prescription Online Master’s degree or graduate certificate
Focuses on the scientific principles and practical application of exercise to improve health, fitness, and performance across diverse populations. Students gain expertise in designing individualized exercise programs that address cardiovascular health, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and functional movement.
Master's in Athletic Training
- Athletic training programs prepare students to become certified athletic trainers who provide medical care for
athletes, including injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation. The curriculum often includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, orthopedic assessment, emergency care, and therapeutic modalities.
Doctor of Physical Therapy
- For students interested in becoming physical therapists, a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is typically required. However, some programs offer a bridge option for students with a bachelor's degree in exercise science to complete prerequisite coursework before entering the DPT program.
