Is a Master’s in Exercise Science Worth It? Top 5 Reasons to Earn Your Degree

A master’s degree is an investment. It’s no secret that it can be an expensive one, too. Because of that, you want to make sure that the degree you’re earning is worth the time, money, and energy you’re devoting to it.

With a high job outlook and numerous career paths to choose from, a master’s degree in exercise science stands out as a worthwhile option. In fact, let’s look at the top ten reasons you’ll want to earn this degree.

Key Takeaways:

• Many reasons make an exercise science degree worthwhile, from career advancement to opportunities for skill building.
• A graduate degree sets you up for career success by offering research opportunities and preparation for professional certification exams.
• This degree is ideal for current health and fitness professionals looking to expand their skill sets or climb higher in their career.

What Is a Master’s in Exercise Science?

Exercise science professionals focus on helping clients achieve their goals. These might be patients recovering from injuries, professional athletes, or simply people who want to feel more comfortable with physical activity.

A master’s in exercise science builds upon a foundational knowledge of health and fitness. While it has some overlap with the field of kinesiology, aspects of the degree are specific to exercise science, such as health program planning, applied nutrition, and exercise testing. Other typical courses might include:

• Exercise physiology
• Sport science
• Human pathophysiology
• Nutrition and ergogenic aids
• Strength and conditioning
• Health and wellness coaching
• Wellness leadership

Upon graduating, you’re poised to work in a variety of settings, including fitness centers, professional sports teams, hospitals, and community wellness organizations. These master’s programs are ideal for health and fitness professionals who aim to move up and bolster their skill set.

What Are the Top X Reasons to Earn Your Master’s in Exercise and Sports Science?

Earning a master’s in exercise and sports science is worthwhile for so many reasons. Here are the five top reasons you should pursue this path:

1. Advance Your Expertise in Human and Sport Performance
2. Expand Your Career Opportunities
3. Gain Professional Credibility and Credentials
4. Hone Your Research and Leadership Skills
5. Build Your Professional Network

1. Advance Your Expertise in Human and Sport Performance

The field of exercise science is constantly evolving. In 2025, some of the biggest trends included a shift toward wearable technology and exercise apps. To stay ahead in the industry, you must keep learning—whether that’s through professional certifications, on-the-job experience, or continued education.

Whether you’re a seasoned athletic trainer or just breaking into the health and fitness scene, a graduate degree allows you to level up. Your coursework will prepare you to meet changes and challenges head-on. This is especially important if you’re interested in coaching, where clients expect you to be up to date with industry trends.

2. Expand Your Career Opportunities

A master’s in exercise science opens the door to an array of potential careers. An emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical application ensures you’ll be equipped to tackle both client-facing and research-driven roles. And if you’re interested in climbing the ladder within a fitness organization, you’ll have the leadership know-how to do so.

So what jobs are good options for exercise science graduates? You can consider careers in exercise physiology, sports medicine, and Some options include clinical exercise physiologist, a strength and conditioning coach, a human performance specialist, a corporate wellness coordinator, or a clinical research coordinator.

3. Gain Professional Credibility and Credentials

Especially if you’re early on in your career or seeking advancement, a master’s degree sets you apart. Not only do you have on-the-job experience, but you also have the education to take your career further.

Another way to establish your professional credibility is by passing professional certification exams. Luckily, a master’s program is designed with this goal in mind. Your coursework will prepare you for exams like NSCA’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS).

4. Hone Your Research and Leadership Skills

As important as practical experience is, research and data analysis also play a crucial role in exercise science. By earning your master’s degree, you’ll learn how research shapes the health and wellness field and propels it into the future. After all, you need to understand how to examine trends and investigate contemporary issues in the field in order to find solutions.

Graduate coursework in exercise science will also help you develop your leadership skills. If you aim to become an athletic director or run your own business, then these will be an invaluable part of your tool kit. From collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to meeting long-term health goals within a community or organization, a master’s degree will equip you with these skills.

5. Build Your Professional Network

One of the biggest benefits of earning your master’s degree is networking. Through your graduate coursework, you’ll be taught by esteemed faculty members. These professionals have extensive industry experience and research expertise.

Your master’s degree also sets you up to network with your future colleagues. Interacting with classmates who have varied professional backgrounds will expose you to new ideas and potential career paths. And upon graduating, you’ll be able to draw from this professional network to continue building your degree.

Who Should Consider a Master’s in Exercise Science?

Endless benefits make an exercise science master’s degree worth it, but is it the right choice for you? Those who have a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field are particularly well-suited to these programs. Ultimately, a passion for health and physical fitness will take you far in your educational journey.

Want to Know if Exercise & Sport Science Is for You? Contact UC Today for One-on-One Guidance

At the University of Cincinnati, our online Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science is designed with your busy life in mind. A flexible online format allows you to balance school, work, and life while you work toward your degree.

It’s clear why a master’s degree in exercise science is worthwhile—from an abundance of advancement opportunities to the promise of a growing field. While only you can determine if a master’s degree is right for you, you don’t have to decide alone.

Ready to start your journey with UC? Contact your Enrollment Services Advisor for personalized support today. You’re at the starting line for the career of your dreams. All that’s left to do is go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does a master’s degree in exercise science teach you?

This master’s degree covers a wide range of topics within exercise science and health and wellness coaching. Some typical courses include exercise physiology, human pathophysiology, nutrition, strength and conditioning, and wellness leadership.

How long does it take to earn a master’s in exercise science?

This will vary depending on your pace, such as whether you enroll part time or full time. At UC, you can finish your online master’s in exercise science in three semesters.

Can you get a master’s in exercise science online?

Yes! Many exercise science master’s programs are offered 100% online and allow for asynchronous completion of coursework.

Is exercise science in high demand?

Many career options within exercise science have a strong job outlook. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment rate for exercise physiologists will grow 9% by 2034—suggesting higher than average demand.