Exploring Lucrative Career Paths in Kinesiology with a Bachelor’s Degree
Discover the boundless opportunities for career advancement in kinesiology with a bachelor’s degree. From orthopedic therapists and athletic trainers to coaches and occupational therapists, the field offers diverse and rewarding roles. While advanced degrees may be required for some careers, numerous promising options exist for bachelor’s degree holders in kinesiology. Explore the top career paths within the field and embark on your journey to success.
Athletic Trainer:
An athletic trainer is a healthcare professionals specialized in preventing, evaluating, managing, and rehabilitating sports-related injuries. They work closely with athletes, providing immediate care, developing injury prevention programs, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to facilitate recovery. Their expertise in sports medicine and injury prevention allows them to support athletes’ overall well-being and optimize their performance, ensuring they stay safe, healthy, and at their best.
Become an athletic trainer with a bachelor’s degree, a minimum requirement for this dynamic profession. Advanced degrees may be necessary for positions in major sports teams, but specialized programs and board certifications can pave the way to success. State regulations and accreditation play a role in securing employment and advancing in the field.
The average salary range for athletic trainers can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, geographic location, industry, and work setting. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2020, the median annual wage for athletic trainers was $49,860.
Recreational Therapists:
Recreational therapists are professionals who use recreational activities and interventions to improve the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being of individuals with disabilities, illnesses, or limitations. They design and implement therapeutic programs that incorporate activities like arts and crafts, sports, music, dance, and games to help individuals achieve their therapeutic goals. Recreational therapists assess their clients’ needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and facilitate engaging and meaningful experiences that promote relaxation, social interaction, skill development, and overall enjoyment. Through their interventions, recreational therapists aim to enhance quality of life, promote functional independence, and foster a sense of joy and fulfillment in the lives of their clients.
A bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation or kinesiology sets the stage for an exciting career as a recreational therapist. Internships at esteemed clinics and hospitals serve as catalysts for students to gain invaluable experience. Aspiring recreational therapists typically need certification from the esteemed National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification, a coveted asset for those working in healthcare facilities.
The salary of a recreational therapist can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, geographic location, and the specific industry or setting in which they work. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2020, the median annual wage for recreational therapists was $50,520.
Physical Therapist and Assistance:
A physical therapist is a healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal conditions, focusing on improving mobility, managing pain, and enhancing overall physical function. They develop personalized treatment plans, including exercises and manual therapy techniques, to help patients regain movement, reduce pain, and improve strength and coordination. They also provide education on injury prevention and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care, aiming to enhance patients’ quality of life and functional abilities.
Start your physical therapy journey as an assistant or aide with an associate or bachelor’s degree. Licensing through the National Physical Therapy Exam is required to become a licensed physical therapist. Utilize your bachelor’s degree to gain valuable on-the-job training as a physical therapist aide.
The average income for physical therapists can vary depending on various factors such as experience, location, education, work setting, and specialization. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2020, the median annual wage for Physical Therapists was $91,010. Physical Therapist Assistants was $60,390.
Occupational Therapist and Assistants:
Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who assist individuals in regaining or improving their ability to perform daily activities and participate in meaningful occupations. They work with people of all ages and diverse conditions, including physical, cognitive, developmental, or emotional challenges. Occupational therapists assess their clients’ needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and utilize therapeutic techniques and interventions to enhance their functional abilities. They may focus on tasks such as self-care, work, leisure, and social participation, aiming to promote independence, improve quality of life, and facilitate successful engagement in various environments.
Begin your occupational therapy career as an assistant or aide under experienced professionals. Licensing is mandatory for occupational therapy assistants, with experience as an aide contributing to certification eligibility. Accreditation, such as a bachelor’s degree, empowers you to practice independently.
The salary of an occupational therapist can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, education, work setting, and specialization. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2020, the median annual wage for occupational therapists was $86,280. occupational therapy assistants was $62,940.
