In the world of healthcare and human movement, kinesiology stands at the forefront, encompassing the study of human motion, exercise science, and the interaction between physical activity and overall well-being. With the increasing emphasis on health and fitness, professionals with a Doctorate in Kinesiology are in high demand.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of exercise physiology is expected to experience significant growth, with employment opportunities for exercise physiologists projected to increase by 9% from 2021 to 2031. This growth rate surpasses the average for all occupations, indicating a strong demand for professionals in this field.
In this blog, we will explore 11 great paying careers that you can pursue after earning a Doctorate in Kinesiology.
Pursue Careers With a Promising Future
With a growing employment need and an estimated 1,600+ job openings each year over the next decade, health professions within kinesiology present tremendous upside. With factors such as increased chronic disease, personalization of exercise regimens and the desire of individuals to take preventative health measures, opportunities for good-paying careers will remain strong.
1. Sports Performance Director
For those passionate about enhancing athletes’ performance, a career as a sports performance director is an ideal choice. As a sports performance director, you would be responsible for optimizing the physical capabilities of athletes, whether in professional sports teams, collegiate programs, or training facilities. You will develop and implement strength and conditioning programs, oversee injury prevention strategies, and utilize cutting-edge sports science techniques.
Working closely with athletes and coaches, you can make significant contributions to their success. The salary potential in this field is high, and the opportunity to work with elite athletes and witness their achievements is both thrilling and rewarding.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
2. University Professor
One of the most prestigious and rewarding career paths for kinesiology doctorate holders is becoming a university professor. As a professor in a kinesiology department, you have the opportunity to shape the future generation of professionals in the field. You will teach courses related to exercise science, biomechanics, and human motion, while also conducting research in your area of expertise.
Tenure-track positions offer job security, and the competitive salary range, along with research grants, allows for a fulfilling academic career. Additionally, professors often have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues, publish research articles, and attend conferences, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
3. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist
athletic woman undergoing medical examination
Rehabilitation specialists play a crucial role in helping individuals recover from injuries or surgeries. With a Doctorate in Kinesiology, you can pursue a career in hospitals, physical therapy clinics, or sports rehabilitation centers. As a rehabilitation specialist, you will work closely with patients, assessing their physical limitations and designing customized rehabilitation programs to restore function and improve their quality of life.
You may use various therapeutic techniques, such as exercise, manual therapy, and assistive devices, to aid in the recovery process. The satisfaction of witnessing patients regain functionality and independence is incredibly fulfilling, and the potential for career growth in this field is promising.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
4. Corporate Wellness Consultant
In the corporate world, the focus on employee health and wellness has gained significant momentum. As a corporate wellness consultant, you would work towards promoting employee well-being and creating a healthier work environment. You will design and implement wellness programs that encompass fitness activities, nutrition education, stress management, and overall lifestyle improvements. Your expertise in kinesiology will be valuable in assessing employee health risks, conducting fitness assessments, and providing guidance for behavior change.
Opportunities in corporate settings, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms abound, offering high-paying contracts and the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of employees by helping them lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. As a corporate wellness consultant, you may collaborate with HR departments, conduct workshops and seminars, and develop comprehensive wellness strategies tailored to the specific needs of each organization. The potential for personal and professional growth, as well as the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of a large population, make this career path both rewarding and financially promising.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
5. Research Scientist
If you have a passion for advancing the field of kinesiology through scientific research, a career as a research scientist might be the perfect fit. Academic institutions, research centers, and government agencies offer opportunities for conducting studies and contributing to scientific advancements. As a research scientist, you will design and execute experiments, collect and analyze data, and publish your findings in scientific journals.
Your research may focus on topics such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, or sports performance. The potential for grant funding allows you to pursue innovative research projects while collaborating with fellow scientists and professionals in related fields. The ability to shape the future of kinesiology through research and contribute to evidence-based practices makes this career path highly rewarding.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
6. Wellness Program Director
nutritionist giving consultation to patient
Wellness program directors are responsible for designing and implementing wellness initiatives in various settings, including corporate environments, healthcare organizations, and community centers. With a Doctorate in Kinesiology, you can secure managerial positions and shape wellness programs that benefit large populations. As a wellness program director, you will assess the needs of the target population, develop comprehensive wellness plans, coordinate various health promotion activities, and evaluate the effectiveness of the programs.
By incorporating evidence-based practices and collaborating with healthcare professionals, nutritionists, and fitness experts, you will create an environment that fosters healthy behaviors and improves overall well-being. The potential for positively impacting individuals’ health and well-being, coupled with the possibility of advancement in managerial roles, makes this career path attractive and financially rewarding.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
7. Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists play a vital role in helping individuals regain independence and functionality in their daily lives. With a Doctorate in Kinesiology, you can pursue a career as an occupational therapist in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practice. Occupational therapists work with individuals of all ages who are experiencing physical or cognitive challenges that affect their ability to perform daily activities. Your expertise in kinesiology will enable you to design and implement therapeutic interventions that focus on improving mobility, strength, and coordination.
You will assess the specific needs of each patient, develop personalized treatment plans, and use a variety of techniques and modalities to facilitate their recovery. This may include exercises, adaptive equipment, and assistive technology. As an occupational therapist, you will work closely with patients, their families, and a multidisciplinary team to achieve functional goals and enhance their overall quality of life. The competitive salary range and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives by helping them overcome physical challenges make this career path immensely rewarding.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
8. Biomechanist
A biomechanist studies the mechanical principles of human movement, helping to improve athletic performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation techniques. They analyze motion, muscle function, and force production using advanced technology such as force plates, electromyography (EMG), and high-speed cameras. Biomechanists work in sports performance labs, medical research institutions, rehabilitation clinics, and even the tech industry, where they contribute to the development of wearable devices, prosthetics, and ergonomic products.
The field of biomechanics is expanding due to advancements in sports analytics, injury prevention, fitness goals and prosthetic design. Professionals in this career typically hold a Master’s or PhD in Biomechanics, Kinesiology or Biomedical Engineering. Salaries vary based on the sector, with research and academic roles paying between $60,000 and $90,000 per year, while those in sports performance, medical device development, or consulting can earn upwards of $100,000 with experience.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
9. Sports Scientist
A sports scientist applies principles of physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and nutrition to enhance athletic performance and prevent injuries. They work with elite athletes, sports teams, fitness centers, and rehabilitation clinics, conducting research on human movement, training techniques, recovery strategies and sport management best practices. Sports scientists often use cutting-edge technology like motion capture systems, wearable fitness trackers, and metabolic testing equipment to analyze performance and create personalized training regimens.
This career is gaining traction as professional and collegiate sports organizations increasingly rely on data-driven performance optimization. Those in research and academia typically hold a Master’s or PhD in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, or a related field. Salaries vary widely depending on the industry, with sports scientists earning between $50,000 and $100,000 per year, while those working for professional sports teams or Olympic programs can make significantly more.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
10. Orthotic and Prosthetics Professional
Orthotic and prosthetics professionals specialize in designing, fabricating, and fitting orthopedic braces (orthoses) and artificial limbs (prostheses) for individuals with physical disabilities, injuries, or amputations. These professionals work closely with physicians, physical therapists, and rehabilitation specialists to improve a patient’s mobility, function, and overall quality of life. They assess individual needs, take detailed measurements, and use advanced technology such as 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD) to create custom-fitted devices.
The demand for orthotic and prosthetic specialists is growing due to aging populations, increasing rates of diabetes-related amputations, and advancements in assistive technology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this field is expected to grow by 18% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
11. Physician Assistant (PA)
A Physician Assistant (PA) is a highly trained healthcare professional who practices medicine under the supervision of a licensed physician. PAs diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medication, and assist in surgeries across various medical specialties, including orthopedics, cardiology, emergency medicine, and sports medicine. Unlike medical doctors (MDs), PAs can enter the workforce faster after completing a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies, which typically takes 2-3 years post-bachelor’s degree.
PAs are in extremely high demand, with job growth projected at 28% from 2021 to 2031, making it one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions. Due to their versatility and ability to work in various healthcare settings, PAs enjoy strong job security, competitive salaries, and the ability to transition between medical specialties without extensive additional training.
To see the salary range, visit this link.
FAQs About Kinesiology Health Professions
Get a Doctorate in Kinesiology 100% Online
The field of kinesiology offers a wide range of rewarding and well-paying career options for individuals with a doctorate in the field. From academia to clinical practice, sports performance, and research, the opportunities are diverse and abundant. Whether you choose to educate the next generation, work directly with individuals to enhance their well-being, or contribute to scientific advancements, an online Doctorate in Kinesiology from Concordia University St. Paul opens doors to fulfilling and lucrative careers.
If you have a passion for human movement and a desire to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives, consider pursuing a Doctorate in Kinesiology 100% online at Concordia University St. Paul. Learn more about our program or apply today to get started.