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Gain an edge in the competitive world of fitness training with a kinesiology degree. Study nutrition, exercise, weight management, athletic coaching and more. Choose from an associate’s degree or certificate programs.

Careers

Stand out in the competitive, growing world of fitness training by earning a Kinesiology degree from Pierce College. Learn from our scientifically inclusive curriculum of human movement, studying mechanical, anatomical, neural, developmental, physiological and psychological mechanisms. Gain a well-rounded understanding of all aspects of human function as it pertains to movement and exercise.

You will learn how to design group or individual exercise programs that improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance or flexibility. You will also develop skills in health risk stratification, health and physical fitness assessments, interpretation of results, and motivational strategies to help healthy individuals and those with medically controlled diseases.

If you pursue a degree in Kinesiology, you will also earn a certificate in personal training. Personal training — as practiced by a personal trainer, fitness trainer, fitness professional or exercise professional — is emerging as one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States. The job outlook for this profession is expected to grow much faster than average, according to the Department of Labor.

Pierce College's AAS-T Kinesiology Degree and one-year Personal Training Certificate will help you pursue national certifications, employment in the health and fitness/coaching industries, or transfer to a four-year university. Pierce College Kinesiology graduates have the option to directly transfer to Pacific Lutheran University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology.

A degree in Kinesiology can lead to many diverse employment opportunities. Kinesiology graduates can pursue jobs in the healthcare field, including physical and occupational therapy, exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, and lifestyle and weight management. In addition to careers in personal training, you might choose to specialize in aerobics, yoga or group fitness. Your degree allows you to meaningfully impact the health and wellness of others while joining a fast-growing field of employment.

Median Wages (2019)

  • Wellness coordinator: $85,450
  • Exercise physiologist: $51,150
  • Personal trainer: $40,390
  • Physical therapist: $86,850
  • Athletic trainer: $46,630
  • Coach: $36,100

Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Transfer

Transfer Institution Information

Course Maps

Students should see course descriptions for prerequisite information. For many students, testing is a critical step to getting on track with their college education. The Testing Centers at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom and Pierce College Puyallup can help you determine what course best suits your needs.

Requirements for the Kinesiology AAS-T degree can be completed in two years. The Personal Training Certificate and Athletic Coaching Certificate can be finished in one year.

Career Pathway Course Maps

About the Program

Using Pierce College Fort Steilacoom's new $9 million Health Education Center, the Kinesiology program melds classroom instruction with the most technologically advanced laboratory equipment available. In the Health Assessment Laboratory, students gain critical, hands-on experience performing health tests and assessments, including hydrostatic weighing to test body composition and Max VO2 assessment with a metabolic cart. Knowing how and when to perform these critical tests gives students a competitive edge in various athletic and healthcare careers.

Related Pages

Contacts

Lisa
Murray
Department Chair and PTA Program Advisor
253-964-6482