Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary: Salary Guide 2025
Postsecondary recreation and fitness studies teachers earn a median $77,270 annually, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $37 an hour. The typical range runs from $44,900 at the 10th percentile to $134,890 at the 90th. With 12,630 jobs nationwide, this isn't a huge field, but it offers solid pay for those who combine academic credentials with practical experience.
How much Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $86,620 for these teachers. Half earn more than the $77,270 median, half earn less. New instructors or those at community colleges often start near the 10th percentile of $44,900. Top earners—typically full professors at research universities—can make $134,890 or more.
- Median annual salary: $77,270
- Mean annual salary: $86,620
- 10th percentile: $44,900
- 90th percentile: $134,890
- Hourly mean wage: ~$37
Pay by state
Where you teach matters a lot. California pays the most, with an average of $127,780. Maryland ($97,640) and Massachusetts ($87,960) round out the top three. Michigan ($83,690) and Wyoming ($83,260) also pay well above the national mean. On the lower end, Kansas ($59,730), Idaho ($58,720), and Alaska ($58,330) trail significantly.
How to become Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
Most university positions require a master's or doctoral degree in exercise science, kinesiology, recreation management, or a related field. Community colleges may accept a master's plus relevant professional certifications (like ACSM, NASM, or ACE). Practical experience—coaching, personal training, recreation programming—is expected. Full professors usually need a PhD and a record of research publications. Typical entry: instructor or assistant professor, often on a tenure track.
- Earn a master's degree (minimum) in exercise science, kinesiology, or recreation
- Gain professional certifications (ACSM, NASM, ACE) for hands-on credibility
- Accumulate teaching or coaching experience at the college level
- For tenure-track, complete a PhD and publish research
- Apply to open positions; expect a competitive job market with ~1,100 openings per year
Job outlook
The BLS projects 2.4% employment growth from 2024 to 2034—about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 1,100 new openings each year, mostly due to retirements and turnover. The modest growth reflects steady enrollment in recreation and fitness programs, though budget constraints at some colleges may limit expansion.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary?
The national median salary is $77,270 per year, with a mean of $86,620. Salaries range from $44,900 (10th percentile) to $134,890 (90th percentile).
Which states pay the most for this career?
California is the highest-paying state at $127,780 average, followed by Maryland ($97,640), Massachusetts ($87,960), Michigan ($83,690), and Wyoming ($83,260).
What education do you need to become a postsecondary recreation or fitness teacher?
A master's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or recreation is the typical minimum. Community colleges may accept a master's plus certifications; universities often require a PhD for tenure-track positions.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary data.