Tighten Up Your Career with an Online Fitness Degree Program

Entrepreneurs with consistent fitness regimens and powerful communications skills can launch careers as personal trainers, nutritionists, and fitness experts. Most fitness jobs require certification by at least one industry organization along with the solid credentials of an accredited college, university, or career training center. Online degree programs make it easy for prospective fitness professionals to refine their own routines, build key skills, and launch new careers.

Fitness Degree Programs

Degree programs are available at any level to accommodate your prior education and your future goals:

• Certificate
• Associate's degree
• Bachelor's degree
• Master's degree
• Doctorate degree

Career & Salary Options for Fitness Professionals

Because so many fitness professionals are self-employed, government analysts admit that it can be hard to predict salaries for recent graduates of fitness degree programs. For instance, fitness professionals working full time at spas or at health clubs report earnings of between $18,000 and $40,000 per year. Salaries can vary, based on the location and the type of employer.
However, many fitness professionals maintain multiple income streams, often involving several venues. For example, a freelance personal trainer may work with some clients at a health club and with other clients in their homes. Trainers and instructors can also earn a higher hourly rate by leading large classes, or by selling nutritional supplements through affiliate marketing programs. Government surveys indicate that some fitness professionals earn $60,000 or more using multi-tiered strategies.

Typical Fitness Degree Coursework

Many fitness professionals enroll in certification preparation programs, designed to help pass industry exams. Other fitness degree programs focus on personal training, nutrition, and sport sciences. Typical courses include:

• Dieting Strategies
• Biology
• Nutrition
• Psychology

Fitness Online Education Options

Online degree programs attract prospective fitness professionals who already work challenging schedules to accommodate jobs, training classes, or clients. Fitness professionals also enjoy the flexibility of integrating related career training into their online education plans. Marketing, business, and communications courses complement nutrition and exercise science classes for professionals who want to operate their own fitness companies.
Sources:
The Virginian-Pilot
United States Bureau of Labor Statistics
United States Bureau of Labor Statistics

Joe Taylor Jr. is an internal business consultant for a Fortune 500 company, who writes about finance, culture, and design. He holds a bachelor's of science in communications from Ithaca College.