Description: A cardiopulmonary rehabilitation specialist, also called a cardiac rehab specialist or therapist, works with patients who have had heart surgery or who have chronic heart disease or chronic lung disease. A cardiac rehab therapist develops nutrition, exercise, and education programs to promote wellness and strengthen patients who have had heart surgery or who have chronic heart disease. Their work can include nutritional guidance, group and individual exercise programs, strength training, and blood pressure and heart rate analysis. They develop relationships with patients and may mediate correspondence between a patient and their physician. Rehabilitation therapists typically work in hospitals or clinics, but may also provide in-home service. 

Work environment: Cardiac Rehab Specialists work in a few different settings including: 

  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient clinics
  • Rehabilitation centers. 

Education: A bachelor’s degree in kinesiology or a related field is required though a graduate degree in physiology, exercise science, or kinesiology is preferred. MSU degree options. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

updated 07/2021