Growth Trends for Related Jobs
Human Movement Careers
Human movement science is a course of study related to exercise science and kinesiology. Typically, students pursuing a human movement science degree study not only the physical aspects of movement, but the interplay between neurological, psychological, chemical and mechanical factors in human exercise. A bachelor's degree in human movement science can prepare an individual for one of several careers.
Trainers and Fitness Instructors
Graduates of human movement science programs can find work as fitness instructors, according to the University of Utah. Fitness instructors lead groups of people in structured exercise routines, usually at gyms and other fitness centers, but also in facilities such as hospitals and retirement communities. A human movement education can also lead to a career as a personal trainer, who develops and oversees exercise routines for individuals. As of 2012, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that fitness instructors and trainers earned an average of $36,900 per year.
Physical Education Teachers
A degree in human science movement can also lead to a career as physical education teacher, though this career choice may also require a minor in education. Phys ed teachers select games that help students get exercise, and sometimes teach related subjects such as personal fitness. In addition to leading students in games, physical education teachers also teach students about the connections between education, nutrition and health. As of 2012, the BLS reports that middle school teachers earned an average of $56,280 per year, while high school teachers averaged $57,770 per year.
Occupational Therapists
A bachelor's degree in human movement science can allow a student to pursue further study, typically a master's degree, in occupational therapy, leading to a career as an occupational therapist. Occupational therapists help patients with injuries or disabilities in their everyday lives and in common settings such as in school or at work. In some cases, this means developing rehabilitative exercise routines, while some patients may need adaptive equipment. As of 2012, occupational therapists reported an average income of $76,400.
Physical Therapists
A bachelor's in human movement science followed by a master's or doctoral degree in physical therapy can lead to a career as a physical therapist. Physical therapists help patients who have been injured regain their basic strength and abilities, a process that often takes months. In many cases, this involves helping patients re-learn how to stand and walk. Physical therapists also help patients do exercise regimens tailored to their specific needs. According to the BLS, physical therapists earned a mean annual salary of $81,110 in 2012.
References
- Utah State University: Human Movement Science
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology: Movement Science
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Fitness Instructors and Trainers
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: May 2012 Wages for Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: May 2012 Wages for Middle School Teachers
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: May 2012 Wages for Secondary School Teachers
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Therapists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: May 2012 Wages for Occupational Therapists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Physical Therapists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: May 2012 Wages for Physical Therapists
Photo Credits
Keith Brofsky/Photodisc/Getty Images