A quick online Master’s in Sports Medicine is a flexible path that prepares graduate students for careers in many roles. Sports medicine providers have been specially trained to restore normal functioning to an injured individuals so they can get up and start moving and exercising again. Many have further training and specialize in the areas of athletic performance, physical therapy, and nutritional advice.
What is Sports Medicine?
Sports medicine is a branch of healthcare or medicine that has to do with physical fitness and treating and preventing sports and fitness injuries. The field is not a medical specialty in and of itself; however, sports medicine providers are often a part of the larger healthcare team of professionals that may include medical personnel.
Although it is important to note that the field of sports medicine is not just designed to support professional athletes because the benefits of sports medicine techniques/remedies can a) provide athletic conditioning and nutrition advice and b) help treat sports-related injuries to people of all ages who exercise for personal fitness or engage in competitive sports. Sports medicine specialists also help those who have physically demanding jobs that take a toll on their bodies, like construction work.
Is a Sports Medicine Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, for those students who want a flexible and convenient way to learn how to help people either recover from injuries or simply perform better, an online sports medicine master’s degree program is a great option.
Sports medicine professionals are trained to enrich the lives of their clients by providing each with specialized exercise, therapy, training, and diet regimens.
Why Should I Get My Sports Medicine Master’s Degree Online?
If you are seriously considering how to become a sports medicine specialist, it is important to first determine if sports medicine a good career for your innate skills. And if sports medicine a good career choice that will help you meet your career goals.
To understand why sports medicine might be a good fit for your career objectives, consider that an online graduate degree program’s coursework prepares students to learn how to develop a personalized workout with safe exercises while augmenting physical activity with appropriate dietary choices. Additionally, sports medicine professionals work with many different clients, so they are often adept at communication.
Read on to learn other important facts about what can you do with a masters in sports medicine.
What are the Types of Master’s Degree Concentrations and Specializations in Sports Medicine
Those individuals who are interested in pursuing an online sports medicine master’s degree program will likely be offered various academic tracks or concentrations. The possible academic specializations will depend on the school and the program and include the following.
Injury Prevention
This concentration for an online sports medicine master’s degree focuses on types of corrective exercises that help in the rehabilitation of injuries as well as the prevention of future issues. The coursework will include topical research and recent technological developments that help improve athletic performance and offer an opportunity to maintain optimal physical fitness and performance.
Strength and Conditioning
This concentration for an online sports medicine master’s degree program focuses on human physiological responses to some sort of physical activity. Degree candidates typically learn about the effects of exercise on the cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular systems.
Nutrition and Wellness
This concentration for an on-campus or online sports medicine master’s degree program explores the complex relationships that exist between the concepts of diet and nutrition, energy expenditure, and sports functioning. Degree candidates in this academic track take an in-depth look at how the role of diet and nutritional principles impact the prevention of injuries and one’s overall physical health condition.
Kinesiology
Kinesiology, which is the science of human movement, is often a popular sports medicine master’s degree concentration. Degree candidates explore the many kinesiology concepts that relate to biomechanics. They are also involved in physical testing to better understand how movement and athletic exercise impact performance.
What Do You Learn in a Sports Medicine Master’s Degree Program?
Sports medicine master’s programs cover a wide range of health-related subjects. Foundational coursework for a master’s degree in sports medicine will include classes in human anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, exercise science, health, sports psychology, kinesiology, theories of strength and conditioning, care, and the prevention of musculoskeletal injuries, among others.
Courses also delve into the theories of strength and conditioning, giving degree candidates a deeper understanding as to how to target specific body areas with specific exercises to achieve the intended and desired results.
Students enrolled in traditional or online sports medicine programs study exercise physiology and learn the reasons why certain body parts or muscles respond more positively to specific types of movement. They also learn how to care for and prevent musculoskeletal injuries that may happen when exercising or playing sports.
Additional classes for sports medicine masters programs online will often incorporate research methodology and a host of training exercises/options that can be used to craft and customize physical activity programs to help clients overcome various injuries or illnesses. Many on-campus and online sports medicine programs offer clinical internships that allow degree candidates to apply theoretical concepts within real-world circumstances. Some of the professionals in which clinical internships may take place include hospitals, athletic facilities, and more.
Fortunately, on-campus and online masters sports medicine programs offer flexibility. So, students can align the program curriculum to meet personal career goals and interests.
What Can You Do with a Master’s Degree in Sports Medicine?
Sports medicine is a broad field consisting of various positions in the fields of medicine, sports, and healthcare. As a result, graduates with sports medicine degrees may work across many sectors. For example, they may work as solo practitioners in healthcare facilities or work for a professional athletic team.
Master’s programs in sports medicine often fall into two tracks – 1) a career prep track and 2) a doctorate preparation track. The career track obviously focuses on applying theoretical knowledge and skills practically. The doctoral track focuses primarily on academic research. Broadly categorized, below are some of the rewarding sports medicine fields.
Athletic Training
Most athletic trainers receive specialized training that involves working with those who are actively recovering from a sports-related injury. These professionals help athletes avoid injuries and common disabilities related to a specific sport.
Kinesiology
Kinesiologists explore the interrelationship of physiology, anatomy, and lifestyle choices on one’s physical health. Sports medicine kinesiologists are specialized healthcare practitioners who work as physical therapy assistants, personal trainers, and more.
Health Informatics
Health informatics is where information technology meets sports medicine. Those involved in health informatics utilize technology in ways to improve patient outcomes and better care. Many health informatics professionals also have degrees or certificates in business technology or information management.
Executive Leadership
Many sports medicine grads pursue executive roles and leadership positions related to sports medicine. This may include business-related responsibilities, strategic planning, or team management.
What are Sports Medicine Career Options with a Master’s Degree?
Are you interested in a sports medicine career? Below are some popular career paths for individuals in the sports management sector.
Exercise Physiologists
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, there are more than 21,000 Exercise Physiologists working in the US. And the annual median salary for these sports medicine-related jobs is $47,940 per year, which translates to a sports medicine salary per hour of $23.05. The anticipated job growth for this profession through 2031 is 9%, which is considered faster than average. The following data represents the salary percentiles for exercise physiologists reported by the BLS.
| Salary Percentile | Exercise Physiologist and Sports Medicine Degree Salary |
| 10% | $36,930 per year |
| 25% | $46,120 per year |
| Median – 50% | $47,940 per year |
| 75% | $60,780 per year |
| 90% | $76,950 per year |
Below are the states with the top salaries for exercise physiologists and MS Sports Medicine jobs.
| State | Exercise Physiologist Degree Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $76,040 per year |
| New York | $65,450 per year |
| Connecticut | $63,770 per year |
| Minnesota | $62,350 per year |
| Massachusetts | $62,230 per year |
Athletic Trainers
According to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, there are more than 29,000 athletic trainers working in the US. Furthermore, the annual median salary for these sports medicine-related jobs is $48,420 per year. The anticipated job growth for this profession through 2031 is 17%, which is significantly faster than average. Below is the BLS salary percentile data for athletic trainers.
| Salary Percentile | Athletic Trainers Salary |
|---|---|
| 10% | $36,960 per year |
| 25% | $46,590 per year |
| Median – 50% | $48,420 per year |
| 75% | $60,780 per year |
| 90% | $76,180 per year |
Below are the states that offer the highest salaries for those with MS sports medicine careers as athletic trainers.
| State | Athletic Trainers Salary |
|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $67,760 per year |
| Massachusetts | $66,940 per year |
| New Jersey | $64,530 per year |
| New York | $63,110 per year |
| Rhode Island | $62,810 per year |
Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors
More than 300,000 fitness trainers and instructors had a median pay of $40,700 per year. The yearly salary translates to $19.57 per hour. Additionally, the BLS expects this sector of the industry to grow 19% through 2031, which is much faster average. The below data represents the salary percentiles for fitness trainers and instructors.
| Salary Percentile | Exercise Trainers Salary |
|---|---|
| 10% | $22,960 per year |
| 25% | $29,580 per year |
| Median – 50% | $40,700 per year |
| 75% | $57,760 per year |
| 90% | $75,940 per year |
Below are the states that offer the highest salaries for fitness trainers and instructors.
| State | Exercise Trainers Yearly Salary |
|---|---|
| New York | $61,840 per year |
| District of Columbia | $61,370 per year |
| Vermont | $58,780 per year |
| Connecticut | $57,740 per year |
| Massachusetts | $57,640 per year |
Dietitians and Nutritionists
According to the BLS, more than 74,000 dietitians and nutritionists work in the US. The annual median salary for dietitians and nutritionists is $61,650 per year. The anticipated job growth for this profession through 2031 is 7%, which is faster than average. The following data represents the salary percentiles for dietitians and nutritionists.
| Salary Percentile | Dietitians and Nutritionists Salary |
|---|---|
| 10% | $42,530 per year |
| 25% | $49,490 per year |
| Median – 50% | $61,650 per year |
| 75% | $77,430 per year |
| 90% | $93,640 per year |
Below are the states with the top wages for nutritionists and dietitians.
| State | Dietitians and Nutritionists Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $82,380 per year |
| District of Columbia | $80,600 per year |
| Hawaii | $75,020 per year |
| New Jersey | $74,850 per year |
| Rhode Island | $74,080 per year |
Do You Need a Master’s Degree in Sports Medicine?
For those with a serious interest in a sports medicine career, a master’s degree is essential for career advancement. A quality academic program in sports medicine has a challenging curriculum, although some programs are more rigorous than others. But, while the commitment is serious, the payoff is as well. Completing a master’s degree in sports medicine program prepare you for a marketable and rewarding career in sports medicine. And graduates are part of a network of sports medicine professionals. Additionally, there are programs that allow you to work while earning your on-campus or online sports medicine master’s degree.
How do sports medicine careers and salaries differ for those who hold a master’s level degree? Certain positions in the sports medicine field require a graduate degree. And typically the highest paying positions require one of these advanced degrees.
How Do You Choose the Best Program?
Admission to top sports medicine graduate programs require the applicant to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Each program is different, and each school’s admission board adheres to slightly different admission criteria.
Accreditation
Basically, accreditation is a type of review process. It is the process of evaluating higher education institutions and programs based on a pre-established set of standards. Accreditation involves the review of a school or academic program’s contents, outcomes, and delivery. In the US, there are two main categories of accreditation regional and specialized or programmatic accreditation.
Regional Accreditation
Regional accreditation, which is by the US Department of Education’s CHEA is divided across six regions. The regional agencies are responsible for overseeing the accreditation process of state and nonprofit higher learning institutions and postsecondary schools.
Programmatic Accreditation
Specialized accreditation is a process that evaluates academic programs. The standards established for specialized accreditation vary based on the industry. Although each industry typically has a minimum of one oversight accreditation agency.
In the world of sports medicine, there are several accrediting agencies that evaluate programs and schools. The American Society of Exercise Physiologists and the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education.
- American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP)
The ASEP was established in the late 1990s to promote the science and business of exercise physiology. It operates as a nonprofit organization furthering the advancement of professional exercise physiologists and academic accrediting programs in the field.
- Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)
This nonprofit professional organization establishes standards and seeks to ensure compliance with these academic standards related to athletic training education.
Sports Medicine Licensure
Depending on the exact trajectory of your sports medicine career, you may be required to become licensed. State licensing requirements vary. So it is essential to research all requirements for the state in which you hope to become licensed. For example, in certain states, athletic trainers may need to be registered or licensed.
Sports Medicine Certifications
Certification offers a quick and sure way to show potential employers your knowledge and skills. In the field of sports medicine, the highest certification is issued by the National Athletic Trainer Association. The ATC credential is recognized in 49 states. Other certification options for sports medicine professionals include the American College of Sports Medicine. It offers a variety of sports medicine credential options.
- Exercise is Medicine
- Autism Exercise Specialist
- Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer
- Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer
- Certified Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist
Program Profiles
1. American Public University
APU Online offers a Master of Science (MS) in Sports and Health Science that includes access to CPT OES, CES, and GFI certification. This online sports medicine master’s degree from APU requires 36 graduate credit units. However, students may transfer up to 15 eligible credits. Additionally, students must complete a capstone project to meet this graduate program in sports medicine’s program requirements.
Location: Charlestown, WV
2. Augusta University
Augusta University’s Graduate School offers an online Master of Science degree (MS) in Kinesiology. It offers two completion tracks, either a research thesis or an internship. This online sports medicine master’s degree program requires degree candidates to complete 36 graduate credit hours online. Sample classes for this Augusta University training program include Motor Control and Learning, Physiological Responses to Exercise, Biomechanics, and also Ethics of Sports Coaching.
Location: Augusta, GA
More: More on this degree program.
3. George Washington University
The Milken Public Health Institute at George Washington University’s (GW ONLINE) offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Exercise Science in Strength and Conditioning, which is among the top online sports medicine master’s degrees on the east coast. This 36-credit hour program from GW includes classes in biomechanical analysis, the fundamentals of nutrition science, science/theory of resistance training, and biostatistical applications for public health professionals, to name a few.
Location: Washington, DC
More: More on this degree program.
4. The University of the Southwest
The University of the Southwest (Southwest Online) offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Exercise Science in Kinesiology that is delivered 100% online. Students enrolled in this 30-credit hour USW online sports medicine master’s degree program complete coursework that prepares them in the areas of fitness assessment, nutrition, exercises prescription, and clinical evaluation, among others. Students gain theoretical and practical education during their graduate kinesiology degree program.
Location: Hobbs, New Mexico
More: More on this degree program.
5. Liberty University
Liberty University’s Health Sciences School offers a 33-credit Master of Science degree (MS) in Exercise Science and Wellness degree program that provides rolling start dates throughout the year. This Liberty online sports medicine master’s program is completed, on average, in one year and offers two academic tracks – nutrition and wellness or fitness and performance. LU allows for the transfer of up to 50% of required credits if eligible.
Location: Lynchburg, VA
Degree: Master of Science degree (MS) in Exercise Science and Wellness
More: More on this degree program
6. Logan University
Logan University offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Sports Science & Rehabilitation (SSR) that prepares graduates for a career where they can change others’ lives. This Logan University online sports medicine master’s degree program is ranked among the best online by several college rankings services, and it is officially recognized by the NSCA – the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Before graduation, students complete a clinical internship in the final trimester.
Location: Chesterfield, MO
Degree: Master of Science in Sports Science & Rehabilitation
More: More on this degree program
7. Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University (Southern Utah Online) offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Sports Conditioning & Performance that is completed entirely online except for one two-week campus requirement during which students participate in intensive clinical workshops/courses. This 33-credit online sports medicine master’s degree program includes classes in bioenergetics, athletic training, sport science research, the foundations of sports conditioning, and more. Students can begin this program during the fall, spring, or summer sessions.
Location: Park City, Utah
More: More on this degree program
8. Sul Ross State University
Sul Ross State University’s Kinesiology and Human Performance Department offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Health and Human Performance (HHP) that requires sports medicine degree candidates to complete 30 graduate credit units – delivered in eight class formats. Graduates are prepared for rewarding careers as sports facility managers, sports officials, fitness trainers, or college professors, among many other options. Sul Ross State University allows for up to 12 hours of transfer credits if they meet eligibility requirements.
Location: Alpine, TX
9. Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University’s Corpus Christi campus offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Kinesiology that covers the many athletic performance disciplines. This online sports medicine master’s degree from Texas A&M offers either a thesis or graduate project as the student’s capstone experience. Sample classes for this A&M degree include statistics, research design, sports psychology, athletic testing, sports nutrition, leadership in kinesiology, and more.
Location: Corpus Christi, TX
More: More on this degree program
10. The University of Texas at El Paso
The University of Texas El Paso’s Health Sciences College offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Kinesiology that requires degree candidates to complete 36 graduate credits. In addition, this online sports medicine master’s degree program offers students two academic tracks – exercise science or pedagogy of physical activities. Classes for this graduate degree include biomechanics, motor learning, and also advanced exercise physiology.
Location: El Paso, TX
More: More on this degree program
Professional Organizations in Sports Medicine
A professional organization or a professional association works to advance a profession and even subcategories of professions. The mission of a professional organization is to support its members, the specific industry, and the goodwill between the public and the industry professionals.
Professional organizations can be local, national, or even international. And most are closely connected to institutions of higher education that issue degrees within the specific field.
National Academy of Sports Medicine
The NASM, founded over three decades ago. The organization provides fitness professionals with the tools and knowledge to excel at changing other people’s lives. The NASM offers a variety of fitness certifications for fitness professionals.
American College of Sports Medicine
Founded in 1970, the AAPSM seeks to serve the podiatric sports medicine community by developing a better understanding of managing and preventing lower extremity sports or fitness injuries.
American Medical Athletic Society for Sports Medicine
The AMASSM was established in 1991. It is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of the sports medicine discipline through advocacy, research, education, and patient care.
More: American Medical Athletic Society for Sports Medicine
The American Society of Exercise Physiologists
The ASEP operates as a nonprofit organization that seeks to promote and support the advancement of exercise physiologists as the true healthcare professionals they are. The ASEP also accredits academic programs in the field of exercise physiology. Members have a variety of benefits and professional resources.
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