Last Updated on November 28, 2023
Athletic Training, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Nutrition and Performance Degrees in AZ
Arizona has lots going for it when it comes to pursuing degrees and careers in athletic training, exercise science, sports psychology, and other cutting-edge wellness sciences. All four major sports have teams here, employing athletic trainers, sports psychologists, and more. The state has a large and growing retirement community in need of fitness and training, treatments and regimen as they stay active later in life. The cost of living is more affordable by many indicators in comparison to Arizona’s warm-weather retirement rival, Florida.
In This Guide
- Jump to Exercise Science Programs in Arizona
- Jump to Kinesiology Programs in Arizona
- Jump to Athletic Training Programs in Arizona
Kinesiology Degrees in Arizona
Arizona State offers a bachelor’s program in kinesiology. Many universities in Arizona offer exercise science and physiology programs through their kinesiology department, so be sure to check out those options.
In this section:
Kinesiology Master’s Programs
Kinesiology Master’s Programs
University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ
Master of Science in Kinesiology
University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ
Master of Science in Kinesiology
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 33
Concentrations: Clinical Exercise Physiology, Physical Activity and Health, Strength and Conditioning
Total Tuition: $6,730 in-state tuition and fees, per semester with 7+ credit hours. $16,823 out-of-state tuition and fees per semester with 9+ credit hours.
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
The exceptional academic programs in Kinesiology at the University of Arizona s renowned for its commitment to excellence in education, delivering a high-quality learning experience. Immerse yourself in the world of Kinesiology research and gain valuable skills that contribute to advancing knowledge in the field. Benefit from the guidance and mentorship of their dedicated faculty, who are experts in various areas of Kinesiology. With a Master’s degree from the University of Arizona, a world of career opportunities awaits. Whether you aspire to become a professor, researcher, or work in healthcare, sports performance centers, or public health organizations, their program prepares you for leadership roles. Join their vibrant academic community and expand your professional network through networking opportunities such as conferences, seminars, and collaborations. Start your journey to success in Kinesiology at the University of Arizona.
Kinesiology Bachelor’s Programs
Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ
BS in Kinesiology
Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ
BS in Kinesiology
Total Tuition: $29103 per year
Unleash your potential in the top-notch Kinesiology program at Arizona State University. As one of the nation’s best universities, ASU is recognized for its excellence in education and groundbreaking research. Their Kinesiology program offers a comprehensive and rigorous education, covering a wide range of topics such as human movement, exercise science, sports performance, and wellness. Delve into fascinating subjects like biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control, and fitness assessment. Experience hands-on learning and cutting-edge research in their state-of-the-art facilities. Their dedicated faculty members are committed to providing you with a high-quality education and support throughout your journey. By earning a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from ASU, you’ll open doors to limitless career possibilities in fields like exercise physiology, physical therapy, sports coaching, and more. Take advantage of their extensive alumni network, which offers valuable mentorship opportunities and connections to potential job prospects. Embrace your future in the exciting field of Kinesiology with Arizona State University.
Exercise Science Degree Programs in Arizona
Arizona is a great place to find a degree program that leads to a rewarding career in exercise and sports science. Division 1 athletics powerhouses Arizona State and the University of Arizona. These universities have excellent facilities and well-known professors doing cutting-edge research, making them excellent destinations for prospective PhD candidates.
In this section:
Exercise Science Master’s Programs
Exercise Science Master’s Programs
Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ
Master of Science in Physical Activity and Health
Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ
Master of Science in Physical Activity and Health
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 35 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: In State $11,720 per year, Out of state $23,544 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
The Master’s Degree in Physical Activity and Health at ASU offers outstanding advanced training. Students have the option to specialize in exercise science, physical activity, aging, or physical therapy. This specialized knowledge equips graduates to excel in their chosen field and make a positive impact on public health. ASU’s Physical Activity and Health MSc program provides unique opportunities for scholarly professionals. The program focuses on research and practical application, providing students with hands-on experience and access to cutting-edge advancements. By earning a Master’s Degree in Physical Activity and Health from ASU, graduates enhance their career prospects. They are well-prepared for roles in exercise science, physical therapy, athletic training, and related fields. The program’s rigorous curriculum and experiential learning empower students to become leaders in promoting health. ASU’s program offers a hybrid approach, combining in-person and online learning for flexibility and personalized attention.
Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ
Master of Science in Clinical Exercise Physiology
Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ
Master of Science in Clinical Exercise Physiology
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: In State $11,720 per year, Out of state $23,544 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
ASU’s Master’s Degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology program provides comprehensive training for individuals seeking a successful career in this specialized field. Graduates emerge as clinical exercise physiologists equipped to perform assessments, design exercise programs, and support individuals with various health conditions. The curriculum is carefully crafted to incorporate the latest research, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future endeavors. This program opens doors to a wide range of opportunities in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports clinics, and private practices. ASU’s unwavering dedication to cutting-edge research and state-of-the-art facilities further enhances the learning experience. The program’s collaborative environment encourages networking and collaboration among students, faculty, and seasoned professionals in the field.
Exercise Science Bachelor’s Programs
Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff, AZ
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology
Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff, AZ
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology
Delivery Method: On Campus
Total Tuition: Tuition and fees are $11,352 per year for Arizona residents, $27,600 for out-of-state students
The Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Physiology covers core studies in chemistry, physics, anatomy, physiology, and biology. Students gain an understanding of human physiology, movement, and the body’s responses to exercise. Electives cover various disciplines such as psychology, microbiology, genetics, and pathology. Research opportunities and internships are available for hands-on experience. Graduates can pursue careers in clinical exercise physiology or continue their education in graduate or professional programs.
Athletic Training Programs in Arizona
A key part of any master’s of athletic training degree is the experiential component where students can get real-world experience while applying everything they have learned. Arizona is home to an impressive number of professional, minor league, and high school teams where athletic trainers can get a sense of what type of environment they most prefer while still in school. As a warm weather retreat, the state also has a full calendar of year-round sports – including spring training baseball leagues – allowing students to get more relevant experience every month of the year than in other parts of the country. Even if not in a formal context, athletic trainers can learn from volunteering in a variety of contexts. According to Indeed.com there are many open athletic training positions in both Phoenix and in Tuscon, a sign that the job market is promising for athletic training graduates throughout the state.
Cities in AZ
Phoenix is Arizona’s largest market in nearly every industry. This is especially true for all industries related to sports, health, and wellness. That said, the state has a lot to offer in other cities and metro areas such as Flagstaff, Prescott, and Tucson.
The Phoenix metro area is front and center when it comes to college degrees and career opportunities in Arizona. The city that is home to the NBA’s Suns, WNBA’s Mercury, NHL’s Coyotes, MLB’s Diamondbacks, and the NFL’s Cardinals certainly has a lot going on on the pro sports front. Add to that the MLB Cactus League and the Arizona Fall League, the USL’s Phoenix Rising, and the opportunities for career advancement are considerable.
Arizona’s population swells in the winter months as snow birds settle in. The population has been growing faster than elsewhere in the country, with growth from 2010 to 2019 at about 13.9%. Over a third of those moving to Arizona do so for retirement. That means a large population of people in need of services to be able to stay active as they age.
Tucson is Arizona’s second-largest city. Just a fraction of the size of Phoenix, 550,000+ people live within the city limits while the metro area has a population of just under a million people. By far the more historic city, people such as the Hohokam Native American group have been living here for at least 1400 years and perhaps much longer than that.
Leveraging hands-on learning opportunities in Arizona
Those who have gone from students to professionals will tell you, hands-on learning is a critical part of your education. But it’s not simply about finding the best internships and volunteer opportunities–more important is how you leverage your experiential learning to lay the groundwork for your career.
Whether you find yourself in something resembling a dream job or starting with something much less exciting than what you’ve set your sights on, there are always important lessons to be learned. From helping a professor in your own school with research, working with a local company, or performing community service, you will have opportunities to prove yourself by working hard, supporting your colleagues, and giving back to your community. The people you work for can help you find future employment, as can your fellow students. The sports, health, and wellness world is small and you’re bound to see many of the same people later in your career, perhaps when you’re in a position to support each other professionally.
Remember, you have a lot to offer employers, clients, and colleagues. Your ability to succeed is based on your ability to connect with people, earn their trust, and demonstrate a commitment to doing good work for and with them. In this way, your ability to succeed is not entirely based on how much you know or how much experience you have.
Kinesiology and exercise science research in Arizona
There are four universities with Division I sports programs in Arizona, and a number of NAIA and NJCAA schools. While students will often have access to their in-house athletic departments, gaining experience at other facilities and schools is always beneficial in the long run. Internships and graduate assistantships opportunities and full time positions available for job seekers who are willing to broaden their potential work environments. Universities like Arizona and Arizona State are the two largest institutions of their kind in the state, and they offer cutting-edge research and education. There are a number of other well-respected colleges throughout the state that offer high-quality bachelor’s and master’s degrees in kinesiology, exercise science, nutritional science, and exercise physiology.
The Health and Wellness Economy in Arizona
The health and wellness industry generally speaking is booming in Arizona. There are currently nearly 200 open jobs posted for exercise science graduates in the Phoenix area alone according to Indeed.com. The job market for those interested in corporate wellness and exercise physiologists, and cardiac rehabilitation specialists – which exercise science master’s degree holders are uniquely qualified for – are only getting stronger.