At the undergraduate level, you could pursue a bachelor's degree in athletic training with a specialization in sports medicine. Check the prerequisites for enrollment, and review the typical coursework in this major. Get info on your job options in the sports medicine field, and learn about your opportunities for advancing your education at the graduate level.
What Courses Will I Take if I Major in Sports Medicine?
Your program will include foundational training in human anatomy and physiology, as well as relevant sciences, such as biology, chemistry and physics. Other lecture-based courses cover human movement, nutrition, therapeutic treatments and athletic injuries. You'll learn to make professional decisions regarding dietary needs, injury treatments and rehabilitation. You'll apply what you've learned in a hands-on setting through supervised clinical experiences.
Bachelor's degrees in sports medicine are rare. In most cases, you can earn a bachelor's degree in sports science or athletic training. Due to clinical requirements, sports medicine programs are generally not available for online study.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Chemistry, physiology, nutrition, human anatomy, therapeutic treatments</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Prerequisites</b></td><td> Previous completed science coursework, along with standardized test scores, may be required by sports medicine programs</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Potential Work Environment</b></td><td> Medical centers, hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, fitness centers</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Advanced Degree Options</b></td><td> Master's degrees in sports medicine and athletic training are available</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td> $49,860 (<i>for all athletic trainers</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 16% growth (<i>for all athletic trainers</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---AreThereAnyPrerequisites">Are There Any Prerequisites?</h3><p>A strong background in chemistry and biology is helpful when you apply to a sports medicine program. Also, prior experience in athletic training or sports medicine might improve your chances for admission. While this may not be required, some schools want to see that you've demonstrated career-focused goals in the sports medicine field. Submission of your SAT or ACT scores is typically required as well.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithThisDegree">What Can I Do With This Degree?</h3><p>After earning a bachelor's degree in athletic training and sports medicine, you might find work as an athletic trainer or fitness director. Additional career opportunities may be available through cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs can be found in hospitals and medical centers.
</p><p>In most states, athletic trainers are required to obtain certification through the Board of Certification, Inc. (BOC). You could work with athletes at the high school, college or professional levels. You may also work with patients undergoing physical rehabilitation in a hospital or clinical setting. Fitness directors manage exercise or personal training programs at health clubs. Some employers may require certification, which can be obtained through organizations like the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
</p><p>In a cardiovascular rehabilitation program, you'll work with a team of health professionals to help individuals with heart or lung problems. You might design exercise regimens and prepare reports on each individual for program physicians.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatFurtherEducationCanIPursue">What Further Education Can I Pursue?</h3><p>You can pursue numerous master's degree programs that are related to the sports medicine field. These include degrees in sports medicine and athletic training. These programs can refine your training within a particular area of specialization and may lead to career advancement. You might consider applying to medical school in order to become a sports medicine physician.</p>
