Career roadmap
How to Become a Recreation and Fitness Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a recreation and fitness professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a recreation and fitness professor: (1) earn a kinesiology bachelor’s, (2) get certified, (3) earn a master’s, (4) earn a Ph.D., (5) get hired. Most people need about 6–8 years after a bachelor’s. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a recreation and fitness professor
Earn a kinesiology bachelor’s
Labs and internships.
Get certified
ACSM or NSCA.
Earn a master’s
Research.
Earn a Ph.D.
Dissertation.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
A Ph.D. in kinesiology, exercise science or recreation is typical for universities.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 6–8 years after a bachelor’s |
Certifications and licenses
- Ph.D. in kinesiology: Doctoral degree.
- ACSM certification: Exercise physiologist.
- NSCA CSCS: Strength and conditioning.
- CPRP: Recreation professional credential.
Skills to build now
Start with exercise physiology, biomechanics, and fitness testing, and practice energy and motivation. Learning the recreation and fitness professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Lab Instructor: Teach labs.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Chair: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Recreation and Fitness Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a recreation and fitness professor?
Most people need about 6–8 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. in kinesiology, exercise science or recreation is typical for universities.
Do you need a degree to be a recreation and fitness professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a doctorate, while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree.
What certifications are available for recreation and fitness professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D. in kinesiology, ACSM certification, NSCA CSCS, and CPRP. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1193 (Recreation and fitness studies teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Recreation and fitness studies teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.