Ignite Your Passion for Human Movement: Kinesiology, Exercise Science, and Phys Ed Careers in Academia!
Kinesiology, exercise science, and physical education fields are experiencing explosive growth, fueled by rising demand for wellness experts amid global health challenges like obesity rates climbing to 42% in U.S. adults (CDC 2023). Faculty jobs in these areas blend teaching, cutting-edge research in biomechanics, sports performance, and rehabilitation, and community impact. Whether you're a PhD holder eyeing tenure-track roles or a student plotting your academic path, kinesiology faculty jobs offer prestige and purpose.
Students thrive with BS/MS programs focusing on exercise physiology, motor control, and adaptive phys ed, leading to careers as athletic trainers (median $53k, BLS 2023) or professors. Aspiring educators, rate kinesiology professors on Rate My Professor to find inspiring mentors. Professors enjoy competitive landscapes, with over 1,200 U.S. programs accredited by NASPE. Explore trends like esports kinesiology at USC or surfing biomechanics in Hawaii programs. Salaries vary: check professor salaries for details.
Ready to advance? Browse Higher Ed Jobs today and land your ideal kinesiology, exercise science, or phys ed position.
Thriving Faculty Opportunities in Kinesiology and Exercise Science
Tenure-track assistant professor roles in kinesiology dominate postings, with 15% yearly increase (HigherEdJobs data 2023). Focus areas include clinical exercise physiology and youth sports development. Adjunct lecturer jobs in phys ed suit flexible schedules, especially at community colleges. Browse faculty jobs or lecturer jobs tailored to exercise science.
Prestige shines at R1 universities like University of Michigan, where faculty lead ACL injury prevention research—pioneered post-1999 soccer mandates. Fringe quirk: Texas A&M integrates rodeo kinesiology for equine-human dynamics. Rate standout kinesiology professors before applying.
Key Job Types
- Tenure-Track Professor: Research + teaching load
- Clinical Specialist: Rehab-focused roles
- Phys Ed Director: Program leadership
Salaries and Earnings for Kinesiology Professors
Entry-level assistant professors in exercise science average $82,000, rising to $135,000 for full professors (AAUP 2022-23). Phys ed faculty in California hit $110k median due to coastal wellness hubs; Midwest roles start at $70k. Location impacts: high in California and Texas. Dive into specifics via professor salaries.
| Rank | Avg Salary (USD) | Top Location |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Prof | $82,000 | Florida |
| Associate Prof | $102,000 | California |
| Full Prof | $135,000 | Texas |
Bonus: Research grants boost earnings 20% at top programs.
Student Guide: Launching into Kinesiology Studies
Pursue a BS in kinesiology (4 years, focus motor learning), then MS/PhD for faculty tracks. Career paths: 70% grads enter coaching or PT (NSCA 2023). Parents, guide via SAT scores for top admits. Rate exercise science professors on Rate My Professor. Scholarships abound—link scholarships.
Quirk: Oregon State's program features alpine skiing analysis, training Olympians.
Study Tips
- Internships in sports labs
- Certifications: ACSM EP-C
- Research undergrad theses
Job Market Trends and Unique Insights
8% growth projected to 2032 (BLS), spurred by aging populations needing rehab experts. Remote remote higher ed jobs emerge in online phys ed. Fringe: NASA hires kinesiologists for astronaut training; esports programs at Ohio University analyze gamer ergonomics.
Follow higher ed career advice. Check phys ed professors ratings.
Prestigious Programs and Next Steps
Leaders: UGA (football biomechanics), Duke (dance science). Apply via professor jobs. Polish your resume with our free resume template.
Associations for Kinesiology, Exercise Science, and Phys Ed
American College of Sports Medicine
A professional organization dedicated to advancing and integrating scientific research to provide educational and practical applications of exercise science and sports medicine.
National Strength and Conditioning Association
An international authority on strength and conditioning that supports and disseminates research-based knowledge to improve athletic performance and fitness.
Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology
The principal body for physical activity, health, and fitness research and personal training in Canada, promoting evidence-based practices in exercise physiology.
British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences
The professional body for sport and exercise sciences in the UK, aiming to develop and promote excellence in the field through education, research, and practice.
Exercise & Sports Science Australia
The peak professional body representing exercise and sports science professionals in Australia, focused on advancing the profession through accreditation, education, and advocacy.
European College of Sport Science
An international non-profit organization that promotes science and research in sport and exercise sciences across Europe.
American Kinesiology Association
An organization that promotes and enhances kinesiology as a unified field of study and advances its application to improve quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
🧠What is Kinesiology vs. Exercise Science?
Kinesiology studies human movement broadly, including biomechanics; exercise science focuses on physiology and training. Both lead to faculty jobs—check career advice.
📚How to Become a Kinesiology Professor?
Earn PhD, publish research, gain teaching experience. Rate potential mentors on Rate My Professor. Browse professor jobs.
💰Average Salary for Phys Ed Faculty?
Ranges $70k-$135k by rank/location. Full details at professor salaries; California tops at $110k median.
🏆Top Universities for Kinesiology?
University of Michigan, USC, Oregon State lead. Review faculty via Rate My Professor for kinesiology stars.
📈Job Outlook for Exercise Science Faculty?
8% growth to 2032 (BLS), driven by wellness trends. Find openings in Texas or faculty jobs.
🎓Scholarships for Kinesiology Students?
Numerous via ACSM, NSCA. Explore scholarships and rate programs on Rate My Professor.
💻Remote Jobs in Phys Ed Available?
Yes, online teaching roles growing. See remote higher ed jobs for exercise science.
🌊Unique Quirks in Kinesiology Programs?
Hawaii integrates surfing analysis; Texas rodeo focus. Trends shape faculty roles—track via higher ed career advice.
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