The Changing Role and Purpose of Modern Undergraduate Exercise Science Programs in the United States

Exercise science and kinesiology undergraduate degrees remain very popular areas of study; however, a bachelor’s degree in these fields does not promise a high-paying job with benefits. Careers that used to be viable options for exercise science bachelor’s degree holders are either low paying, do not offer benefits, or have limited career advancement, which causes many graduates to switch careers completely. However, the purpose of this article is to encourage a reframing of how these undergraduate degrees create a good foundation for future study in fields of medicine, health, and research. Graduate study is now more of a requirement, and exercise science educators and advisors need to inform students of their options early and guide them in the correct plan of study while still showing the benefit of an exercise science bachelor’s degree.