Key Takeaways:

• College of San Mateo and Cabrillo College are two of the top most affordable kinesiology and exercise science associate degree programs.
• An associate’s degree at a community college is a cost-effective way to begin a career in exercise science and kinesiology.
• Kinesiologists work with diverse clients, from athletes to patients with chronic conditions, providing individualized movement plans.
• They can work in various settings, including clinics, fitness centers, and research facilities, focusing on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement through physical activity.

Why get an affordable associate’s degree in exercise science and kinesiology? Whether you’re thinking about becoming an athletic trainer or a physical therapist, kinesiology gives you the basis for your understanding of the human body. Students in kinesiology study function, movement, and performance. Exercise Science studies the physical responses to movement and performance. Frequently, the two terms are used interchangeably.

But what can you do with an associate’s degree? With an associate’s in kinesiology and exercise science, you can start working at the entry-level to develop your skills and experience and build to a bachelor’s or master’s later. The low cost of an associate’s degree means you can start your career without the baggage of student loan debt.

Best Health Degrees researched the Most Affordable Associate degree programs to help you find the best program for you. We looked at school information and provide you with program highlights in terms of cost, courses, length of the program, admission requirements, etc. For the purposes of this ranking, we’re reporting the requirements for first-time students.

The programs listed are accredited and accept federal student assistance. Many schools require you apply for federal aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®) as part of their admission process.

Related:

• Best Exercise Science and Kinesiology Bachelor’s Programs
• Top Online Exercise Science and Kinesiology Bachelor’s Programs
• Most Affordable Exercise Science and Kinesiology Bachelor’s Program
• Kinesiology and Exercise Science Salary with an Associate Degree

Our Method: Ranking the 10 Most Affordable Online Exercise Science and Kinesiology Associate’s Degrees

To rank the 10 Most Affordable Exercise Science and Kinesiology Associate’s Degrees, Best Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

1. College of San Mateo

This affordable Kinesiology Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer (AA-T) may be just the program you need if you’re looking to continue your education to earn a baccalaureate degree in Exercise Science and Kinesiology.

The curriculum at the College of San Mateo will address the general education studies most four-year schools require. You’ll study:

• English
• Critical Thinking
• Life Science, Arts, Humanities

Preparatory to your undergraduate major, you’ll take classes in:

• Human Anatomy
• Introductory Physiology
• Introduction to Kinesiology
• First Aid/Adult and Pediatric CPR
• Introduction to Life Sciences
• General Physics

The AA-T program also provides studies in Aquatics, Dance, Fitness, Individual and Team Sports.

The admission process at San Mateo is straightforward and is in six phases. First, you’ll complete an application, orientation, complete an educational assessment, meet with a counselor, register for classes and pay fees, and set up your San Mateo email account. At $4,639, this degree is less than you’d pay for your first and second year in an undergraduate program.

Fast Fact: The College of San Mateo is ranked by Niche as #13/755 as a Best Community College in America

Accreditation:  Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

2. Cabrillo College

Cabrillo College in Aptos, CA offers three associate for kinesiology options:

• Kinesiology Associate in Arts for Transfer (A.A.-T)
• Liberal Arts and Sciences: Emphasis in Kinesiology and Wellness – Associate in Arts (A.A.)
• Liberal Arts and Sciences: Emphasis in Kinesiology and Wellness – Associate in Science (A.S.)

Cabrillo College offers one of the top affordable associate degrees in kinesiology, known for its high-quality courses and low tuition. This program emphasizes hands-on learning in subjects like:

• biomechanics
• exercise physiology
• fitness training

Cabrillo College has a high transfer rate, making it easier for students to continue their education in kinesiology at four-year universities. The college’s strong focus on fitness and wellness training provides a solid foundation for careers in sports medicine, physical therapy, and personal training.

In addition to affordability, Cabrillo College offers resources like modern labs and fitness facilities that enhance the learning experience. The curriculum is designed to meet industry standards, preparing students for certification exams if they choose to enter the workforce directly. Cabrillo also has partnerships with state universities, allowing for seamless transfer options for those who want to earn a bachelor’s degree. This program’s combination of affordability, quality, and transfer opportunities makes Cabrillo College an excellent choice for aspiring kinesiology professionals.

Fast Fact: Cabrillo College is ranked #58/ 755 Best Community College in America

Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges

Learn more about this kinesiology program by clicking here.

3. Glendale Community College

Here’s an Arizona college offering two Exercise Science degrees. You have the option of an Associate of Arts (AA) with an Exercise Science emphasis or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Exercise Science: Health, Fitness and Sports Performance.

This affordable exercise science associate’s is considered a Pre-Physical Therapy program and both the AAS and AA require 63-74.5 credit hours for completion. Core studies involve classes in:

• Introduction to Exercise Physiology
• Introduction to Exercise Science
• Healthful Living
• CPR/AED or Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers.

The curriculum also includes several assessment and program design classes in Muscular Fitness, Cardiorespiratory, Weight Management, and more. Classes in nutrition, psychology, and an internship utilizing the practical applications of personal training and techniques.

You need a high school diploma or GED test scores to make application for admission and be over 18 years old. Glendale Community College is part of the Maricopa Community College system. You can expect this to cost an estimated $4,210 according to IPEDS.

Fast Fact: Considered #9 in Niche’s ranking of Best Community Colleges in Arizona

Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC)

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

4. South Texas College

If you’re going to pursue a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, you’ll want to take a look at the Associate of Arts in Kinesiology. The goal of this program is to prepare you for continuing your education.

The program’s recommended curriculum includes classes in:

• Foundations of Kinesiology
• Exercise Science
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Fitness and Exercise Testing
• Theory of Exercising Program Design and Instruction
• Practicum-Health and Physical Education
• Sports Facility Management
• First Aid
• Foundations of Kinesiology

You’ll also take general education elective classes in Language, Philosophy, and Culture, Creative Arts, Social and Behavioral Science, and more.

At an average net price of $164.00/ credit (in-district), this program is one of the most economical we found. General admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED test scores. If you don’t have either a diploma or GED, or are over 18 years of age, you can take and submit results from the Texas Success Initiative Assessment placement exam and transcripts from any school you’ve attended. If you’re under 21 years old, you’ll be expected to provide proof of bacterial meningitis immunization.

Fast Fact: STC ranks #16 in Niche’s Best Value Colleges in Texas

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

5. Central New Mexico Community College

The main Central New Mexico Community College is located in Albuquerque, with other campuses in Montoya, Rio Rancho, and South Valley. The college provides an AAS in Exercise Science and Wellness awarded after 61 credit hours of core coursework and general education classes.

Among the classes offered are:

• Concepts of Health and Wellness
• Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
• CPR, First Aid and Safety
• Structural Kinesiology
• Human Nutrition
• Exercise Kinesiology
• Fitness and Exercise Testing
• Group Exercise Leadership
• Prevention and Care Exercise Injury
• Stress Management

The department offers a wide variety of electives for this major. You’ll also participate in an Internship with this curriculum. General Education classes include English, math, humanities, etc.

First-year students are expected to provide either high school transcripts, ACT/SAT, Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC), or Accuplacer scores. You’ll need to complete an admission application which will set up your school account. Estimated cost for this two-year program is $4,424.

Fast Fact: Central New Mexico Community College is the largest community college in NM

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

6. Bronx Community College

You can earn an AS in Exercise Science from Bronx Community College in two years.

The affordable exercise science associate’s covers major topics in Exercise Science such as:

• Introduction to Exercise Science and Kinesiology
• Critical Issues in Health
• Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity
• Stress Management
• Human Nutrition
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
• Dynamics of Human Motivation

General education courses include English, math, human anatomy and physiology, and life and physical sciences. You may also take classes in the Flexible Core offerings of World Cultures and Global Issues, Individual and Society, etc. This degree is designed to allow for easy transfer to any school in the City University of New York (CUNY) or any other four-year university.

You’ll start the admission process by completing an online application and submitting the processing fee as well as academic high school transcripts or GED scores. You must also provide proof of immunizations for Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Meningitis. Our research shows the estimated cost to be around $2,400/semester, putting it in the middle of our affordability ranking.

Fast Fact: Established in 1957, BCCC is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

7. Houston Community College

The AA in Kinesiology and Exercise degree at Houston Community College will prepare you for entry-level roles teaching people how to improve and maintain healthy lifestyles. This affordable exercise science associate’s program will also prepare you to continue your education at a four-year university or college.

The curriculum has courses in psychology, history, math, English, humanities, and others.

Kinesiology and Exercise studies include:

• Foundations of Kinesiology
• Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries
• Concepts of Physical Fitness
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Personal and Community Health
• Drug Use and Abuse

A total of 60 credit hours are required for the degree. With an estimated IPEDS cost of $4,686, you’ll find this is an affordable associate program.

To begin the admission process, you’ll complete an online application. HCC offers five admission categories and you’ll be required to choose the one most appropriate for you. As part of the application process, you’ll want to apply for Federal Student Aid and submit verification of meningitis vaccination, and Texas Success Initiative (TSI), and other information as requested.

Fast Fact: HCC was established in 1971

Accreditation: HCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges(SACSCOC) and was founded in 1971

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

8. Skyline College

Located in San Bruno, CA, Skyline College awards an Associate in Arts in Kinesiology for Transfer degree (AA-T) degree in 60 credit hours. This may be an excellent affordable exercise science associate’s program if you plan to further your education at a California State University but may not be the best if you plan on attending another school not in the CSU system.

You’ll take general education courses in one of two options: California State University General Education-Breadth pattern (CSU GE Breadth) or Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) pattern. The Kinesiology core curriculum for this degree offers classes in:

• Human Physiology
• Human Anatomy
• Introduction to Kinesiology

Additionally, you’ll choose electives from:

• Combatives
• Dance
• Fitness
• Individual Sports
• Team Sports

Other electives involve studies in Chemistry for:

• Health Sciences or General Chemistry
• Elementary Probability and Statistics
• General Physics

The admission/enrollment process is clearcut, requiring an application (and fee), application for student federal aid, orientation attendance, an educational assessment (for English and math purposes), and a meeting with a counselor. You’ll want to be prepared to submit other documents as requested. IPEDS reports the cost of attendance at Skyline College at a reasonable $4,372.

Fast Fact: Skyline College, established in 1969, is part of the San Mateo County Community College District

Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

9. Clovis Community College

With its campus in Fresno, CA, Clovis Community College offers an Associate of Arts in Kinesiology which will prepare you to transfer your studies to a California State University.

The curriculum calls for general education courses in areas such as math, humanities, English, history.

Core Courses include:

• Human Anatomy
• Introduction to Physical Education
• Human Physiology

Other classes involve physical education studies in team and/or individual sports, dance, strength, and others. You’ll also choose two elective courses from Human Biology, Elementary Statistics, General Physics, First Aid/Safety, or General Chemistry. The IPEDS estimated cost of attendance at Clovis Community College is $4,961.

To apply at CCC, you’ll first complete the CCCApply online form, complete the online orientation session as well as the Assessment for Course Placement. Documents will also be requested such as academic transcripts.

Fast Fact: Clovis Community College is ranked #7 Community College in New Mexico.

Accreditation: CCC is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges ( ACCJC)

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

10. Lincoln Land Community College

As you may guess from this school’s name, Lincoln Land Community College is located in Springfield, IL. LLCC offers an Exercise and Sports Science associate degree.

The curriculum was designed with the idea that students will transfer to a four-year university. General education classes are required in English, humanities or fine arts, math, as well as physical and social science topics. Classes in Exercise Science are chosen from subjects in Physical Conditioning, Strength Training, Bowling, Basketball, Jogging, and others will complete the 60 credit hours required for graduation. The cost of attendance for LLCC is estimated at $5,258 by IPEDS.

You’ll start with the online admission application which has no fee. Academic transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, and other documents may be requested to complete your application.

Fast Fact: LLCC is ranked #78/853 in Niche’s Best Community Colleges in America

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Learn more about this exercise science program by clicking here!

How Do I Save Money on an Associate’s in Exercise Science and Kinesiology?

No doubt, college can be expensive, but there are ways to help make it more affordable and accessible. Education Data Initiative reported that, in-district, two-year community college tuition is $7,560 total on average.

Several years ago, U.S. states began to recognize the importance of education in terms of strengthening their workforce and improving the overall lives of its citizens. As of 2020, Forbes published that 17 states offer tuition-free community colleges. You’ll want to explore if your state is one of the 17 and how to qualify for this extraordinary benefit.

Some individual schools offer free tuition programs. For instance, students at Berea College, located in Kentucky, pay no tuition. Every student receives Berea College’s Tuition Promise Scholarship. Also, in exchange for tuition, students work at least 10 hours a week on campus to apply toward books, room and board, etc. You’ll want to explore to see if any of the community colleges in your area offer such benefits.

Finally, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®) to see if you qualify for grants and low-interest loans. These federal programs will offset many costs associated with college. Community colleges may also offer need based scholarships (and will want the FAFSA on file).

While this isn’t an exhaustive list of college cost savings, hopefully, it will give you option ideas.

How Much Can I Make with an Associate’s in Exercise Science and Kinesiology?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides information on the job market for Exercise Science and Kinesiology. The field has excellent potential with an estimated 10% job growth projection between 2023-2033, much faster than average.

According to the BLS, Fitness Trainers and Instructors with a high school or Associate degree earn , on average, $54,860 per year.

Salaries for bachelor’s prepared Exercise Physiologists range from $35,460- $77,680 (BLS). Athletic Trainers are able to earn an average of $57,930, Coaches and Scouts can earn $45,910.

Is Kinesiology and Exercise Science a Good Career Choice?

Short answer? Yes. If you’re interested in sharing your love for physical activity with others or want to help people restore physical abilities following an accident or injury, Exercise Science and Kinesiology may be the perfect career for you. An Associate’s degree will help you begin to develop the skills for a satisfying career.

If you’re interested in advancement in your profession, you’ll want to consider continuing your education with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Those degrees will increase your job options and allow you to earn more in salary. The career outlook for this field appears very good. As stated above, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports this field having an 11% ten-year job growth projection which is faster than average.

The post 10 Most Affordable Exercise Science and Kinesiology Associate’s Degrees appeared first on The Best Health Degrees.

Key Takeaways:

• Exercise Science and Kinesiology degrees are in high demand, with 11% job growth expected over 10 years.
• This article lists the 10 most affordable Exercise Science and Kinesiology bachelor’s programs based on tuition costs.
• To save money, students can apply for financial aid, scholarships, attend community college, or get employer tuition assistance.
• Graduates can earn $40,000 to $75,000 per year in various careers like exercise physiology, athletic training, and fitness.

College is expensive, but if your dream is to be an athletic trainer or a physical therapist, an affordable exercise science degree gives you the basis for your understanding of the human body. Frequently, the two terms are used interchangeably, but kinesiology studies function, movement, and performance. Exercise Science examines physical responses to movement and performance.

This is a growing field, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a ten-year, job growth record at 11%, which is much faster than average. A bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology is frequently preferred for clinical, entry-level positions and sometimes certification is required. The fitness field is exploding with a 15% job growth over ten years, which is also much faster than average.

Best Health Degrees identified the Most Affordable Bachelor degree programs to assist you in your school search. We looked at a number of school websites to provide program highlights in terms of cost, courses, length of the program, admission requirements, etc.

The programs listed are accredited and accept federal student assistance. As part of their admission process, schools may require you to apply for federal aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®) Often, school or departmental scholarships will use the FAFSA in making their decisions.

Our Method: Ranking the 15 Best Online Exercise Science and Kinesiology Bachelor’s Programs

To rank the 10 Most Affordable Exercise Science and Kinesiology Bachelor’s Programs, Best Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

1. California State University Northridge

If you’re looking for a B.S. in Kinesiology with a minor in Exercise Science, you’ll want to explore one of the most affordable programs we identified from California State University Northridge.

With this program, you’ll study Motor Development, Advanced Biomechanics, Applied Fitness Training and Lab, Medical Aspects of Sport and Related Injuries, Exercise Program Design, Research in Exercise Physiology and Lab, Application of Motor Behavior Principles, and more. You’ll also take general education courses in this 120 credit hour degree. Specific major requirements are General Biology (and lab), Human Anatomy (and lab), Introductory Statistics, as well as Introductory Statistics.

Along with an admission application (and $55 fee), CSUN uses an Eligibility Index GPA rating system which using your GPA and ACT/SAT test scores to determine your qualifications for admission.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $6,574/per academic year

Fast Fact: CSUN ranks #18 of US News and World Report’s Top Public Schools

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

2. University of Texas Permian Basin

Following close behind CUSN in affordability is UT-PB has a BS in Kinesiology with an Exercise Science concentration.

With this affordable exercise science program, you’ll complete 120 credit hours, with 42 of those hours in the kinesiology major. Classes include Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Measurement of Performance in Sport and Exercise Science, Physiology of Exercise. You’ll also study Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries, Analysis of Human Movement, Motor Development, Exercise and Nutrition, Cardiorespiratory Physiology, and more. Two practicum experiences, on and off-campus, are conducted under supervision and concentrate on research and skills.

Both first-year and transfer admission requires an application with a $40 fee, submission of all academic transcripts, with ACT/SAT scores being optional. All students must provide proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,109/per academic year

Fast Fact: Niche rated UT-PB #686/1,572 in its Best Value Colleges in America

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

3. University of North Georgia

This affordable exercise science degree is a versatile BS in Kinesiology that offers four concentrations: Exercise Science, Health and Fitness, Teacher Certification, and Sports Medicine. Graduates with this degree, depending on your concentration, will be prepared for kinesiology careers or have the foundation to pursue pre-professional graduate programs.

The degree requires the typical 120 credit hours for completion. All students take general education courses in disciplines such as Communication and Quantitive Skills, Humanities, Fine Arts and Ethics, Social Sciences, etc. Core courses in the Exercise Science concentration include Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Kinesiology, Therapeutic Principles, Biomechanics, Research Methods, etc. An internship is required in this specialization (as well as the Sports Medicine concentration.)

General admission to UNG no longer requires ACT/SAT test scores and admission to each kinesiology concentration has specific admission requirements. The kinesiology program has strict application deadlines.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,608/per academic year

Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Report ranks UNG #44 in its Best Value Schools and #15 in Top Public Schools

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

4. California State University – Long Beach

This university has an ambitious, but affordable, BS in Kinesiology program offering five specialty areas in Exercise Science, Fitness, Physical Education (Teacher Education), and Psychology and Leadership.

While each concentration has coursework particular to that field, the kinesiology degree requires core and lower division coursework. Among those classes are studies in Biomechanics of Human Movement, Introduction to Kinesiology, Motor Control and Learning, Sociocultural Dimensions of Sport and Human Movement. General education courses are required as well. Some of the specialties requires an internship, field experience, or fieldwork to complete the degree.

As with most schools, you’ll want to carefully review admission requirements, submit requested documents, and meet all application deadlines.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,867/per academic year

Fast Fact: CSU-LB earned a #3 ranking in U.S. News and World Report’s Top Public Schools

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

5. New Mexico State University

This New Mexico school’s Las Cruces campus awards a BS in Kinesiology and three focus areas in Performance Psychology, Exercise Science, or Physical Education. Regardless of the concentration, you’ll take 120 credit hours for this degree.

General education classes are required in seven areas such as Creative and Fine Arts, Communication, Humanities, as well as Viewing a Wider World (studies in areas outside of your major), and more. For the Kinesiology Core classes, you’ll study Introduction to Kinesiology, Anatomy and Physiology (and lab), Exercise Physiology, Motor Learning, Biomechanics (and lab), Social Foundations of Physical Activity, and an internship. This internship will be under supervision in fitness, recreation programs, wellness, or athletic facility with an emphasis on management and operations.

You can begin the admission process by completing an application ($20 fee), provide ACT/SAT test scores, and academic transcripts from all schools attended (secondary and post-secondary). A cumulative GPA of 2.75 or top 20 ranking in graduating class, or ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 1060 is part of admission.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,213/per academic year

Fast Fact: Forbes includes NMSU in its America’s Top Colleges ranking

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

6. University of Southern Indiana

USI provides a BS/BA in Kinesiology and Sport degree from one of four tracks in Exercise Science: Personal Pre-Occupational Therapy Track, Training Track, Pre-Physical Therapy Track, or Strength and Conditioning Track. Five tracks are available in Kinesiology: Nutrition, Senior Fitness, Personal Training, Fitness & Recreational Management, or Physical Education Teaching.

You’ll take the USI Core 39 Courses, a curriculum of general education, foundational studies. The core classes required of all Exercise Science majors include Career Preparation for Exercise Science, Biomechanics and Motor Behavior, Physiology of Exercise, Program Design for Diverse Populations, Exercise Testing and Prescription. Concepts in Wellness and Fitness, CPR for the Healthcare Provider and Sports Injury Prevention, Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology are also part of the curriculum. You may complete a Practicum experience in one of the approved exercise and sport facilities available around the Evansville area.

ACT/SAT test scores are optional for USI first-year admission but you’ll complete an application (plus $40 fee) and submit academic transcripts. You may be able to earn credit for prior learning and experience. Other documentation may be required as you move through the admission process. Transfer students will follow much the same admission procedure.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $11,649/per academic year

Fast Fact: Niche includes USI in its Best Value Colleges in America, Best Colleges in America, as well as Top Public Universities in America rankings

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

7. University of North Carolina-Charlotte

The BS in Exercise Science program at UNC-C holds accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Committee on Accreditation for Exercise Science (CoAES).

Students pursuing this affordable exercise science degree will take Pre-Kinesiology courses in Anatomy and Physiology (with lab), Introduction to Kinesiology, General Chemistry, as well as general education. Emergency Medical Response, Nutrition for the Physically Active, Applied Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Exercise Prescription, Biomechanics, as well as an internship (drug testing and/or criminal background check may be required.)

Beyond the admission requirements for UNC-C, you’ll need to apply for admission to the program. This will require you to make a separate application after required pre-kinesiology coursework is completed. You’ll need at least a 2.5 GPA in college coursework to apply. First-year students’ admission requirements are an application ($75 fee), submission of an essay, academic transcripts, and other documents. ACT/SAT scores are optional (for 2021 applicants).

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,084/per academic year

Fast Fact: UNC-C is one of U.S. News and World Report’s Top Public Schools

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

8. Arkansas State University

Located in Jonesboro, Arkansas State awards a BS in Exercise Science degree that will prepare you for a career in fitness, corporate wellness or clinical setting.

Following general education coursework, you’ll advance to classes in your Exercise Science major. Some of the classes you’ll take are Cardiovascular Physiology, Kinesiology, Basic Physiology of Activity, First Aid and Safety, Nutrition for Health, Sport and Exercise, Human Anatomy and Anatomical Fundamentals of Motion. An internship is part of the curriculum as well. The overall degree requires 120 hours for completion.

After you’ve earn 45 total hours of study, you’ll make application to the Exercise Science program. You’ll need to declare the major, have at least a GPA of 2.75, take specific classes, and submit the application by May 1st. Admission to ASU requires you to create a school account to begin your application.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,310/per academic year

Fast Fact: Arkansas State University is ranked as a Top Public School by U.S. News and World Report

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

9. Sam Houston State University

Calling Huntsville, Texas home, Sam Houston State University awards a BS in Kinesiology designed to prepare you fo a career in clinical exercise science.

In your third and fourth years of study, you’ll start classes in the kinesiology major. Classes include Exercise Physiology (plus lab), Physiology of Exercise, Motor Learning, Advanced Strength Training, Principles in Exercise Testing/Prescription, Principles and Practice of Adult Fitness Management. You’ll also participate in an internship under the supervision of a qualified professional. The affordable exercise science degree requires 120 credit hours for completion and the curriculum is designed to provide you a variety of marketable skills.

First-year students will submit an admission application along with a processing fee, provide academic transcripts, and ACT/SAT test scores are optional. If you were in the top 10% of your high school graduating class or meet other criteria, you may be assured of admission to SHSU.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,365/per academic year

Fast Fact: Forbes recognizes Sam Houston State University as one of America’s Top Colleges 2019

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

10. Austin Peay State University

The Clarksville, Tennessee, Austin Peay State University has a BS in Kinesiology with Exercise Science and Pre-professional concentrations, each requiring 120 credit hours.

This curriculum is designed to prepare you to sit for Exercise Physiologist Certification through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist test through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Along with core general education courses, you’ll take classes in Physiology of Exercise, Analysis of Movement, Anatomical Kinesiology, Fitness Assessment & Exercise Prescription, as well as participate in an internship.

Freshman admission calls for completion of an application with a $25 fee, submission of final high school transcripts, and scores from ACT/SAT testing. You’ll also be asked for proof of immunizations. You might be asked to take the Placement Assessment Test to determine your potential success in college coursework.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,688/per academic year

Fast Fact: APSU ranks #25 in the Top Public Schools ranking of U.S. News and World Report

Click to learn more about this affordable degree in exercise science!

How Can I Save Money on an Exercise Science and Kinesiology Degree?

A Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in exercise science can be costly, but you should weigh that cost against your ability to earn a significant salary in the future. But still, you may experience sticker shock at tuition costs.

The College Board reported in 2020-2021 that a four-year, in-state, tuition and fees averaged $10,560. Out-of-state students paid, on average, $27,020 in tuition and fees. What are ways to reduce the costs?

First off, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®). You may qualify for federally funded assistance such as grants, work-study, or low-interest loans. Often, schools will ask for the FAFSA results when considering students for scholarship money.

Speaking of scholarships, you may want to explore organizations in your community that offer scholarships or loans for students. Be sure to check with your school guidance counselor for suggestions for clubs, organizations, or businesses offering aid that might be available.

Another cost savings is obtaining a two-year Associate’s degree from a community or junior college. Tuition and fees at community colleges are less than four-year institutions and you can get your general education courses out of the way and enter a university as a Junior. Check your state’s policy on community college. Around 17 states currently offer tuition free community college enrollment.

If you’re currently working, check with your Human Resource department to see if your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement.

Good luck!

How Much Can I Make with a Degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science?

There’s good news on the salary front for this career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the field has terrific potential with an estimated 11% job growth projection between 2019-2029, much faster than average.

Bachelor’s prepared Exercise Physiologists can earn in the range from $46,030-$75,740. Athletic Trainers can earn $46,410-$54,140 and Coaches and Scouts can make $31,450-$47,020.

PayScale reports the average salary for a Bachelor’s prepared Kinesiologist can earn $62,594 annually. The Indeed jobs site publishes average salary ranges from $44,634 per year and Glassdoor posts salary ranges from $50,947 yearly. According to the BLS, Fitness Trainers and Instructors can earn, on average, $40,510 per year.

Is Exercise Science and Kinesiology a Good Career?

Americans have substantially boosted the health and fitness industry. As stated previously, this career has a robust future with an 11% job growth over ten years.

Forbes has identified several reasons for this growth: budget-friendly gyms, health insurance costs, healthier eating, wearable fitness devices (Fitbit, Apple Watch, etc.), and others. Health and fitness, worldwide, is an $87.23 billion industry; and, in the U.S., it’s a $35 billion revenue source (Statista) in 2019.

So, the short answer of whether Exercise Science and Kinesiology is a good career choice? Yes.

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