Sports majors cover a wide range of courses that prepare students for careers in sports administration, marketing, science, medicine, healthcare, media, and education. These majors encompass various fields such as physiology, anatomy, first aid/CPR, kinaesthesis, psychophysiology, muscle mechanics, nutrition, dietetics, rehab and therapy, sports promotions, sports media, journalism, sports event management, sports facilities management, and sports facility accounting and financing.
There are numerous sports-related majors available at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Among the various majors, five standout as popular choices among students looking to pursue a career in the sports industry. These five majors include exercise science, exercise physiology, sports training, physical therapy (PT), and sports communication.
Exercise science majors focus on human movement and kinesiology, teaching students about anatomy, physiology, biological processes, sports nutrition, rehabilitation, and the application of exercise science knowledge to training and nutrition regimens. Possible career options for exercise science graduates include athletic trainer, personal trainer, fitness coach, fitness trainer, physical education instructor, athletic scout, and director of sports.
Exercise physiology majors study the body's response to physical activities and intensities. They learn about anatomy and physiology, health and wellness, sports performance, and more. Careers for exercise physiology graduates include exercise physiologist, PT assistant, conditioning coach, personal trainer, and rehabilitation expert.
Athletic training majors focus on first aid and rehabilitation for athletes. Students in this major study anatomy, physiology, first aid, CPR, exercise science, kinesiology, sports medicine, nutrition, rehabilitation, and gain practical experience through fieldwork. Upon completion of their degree, athletic training majors can work as middle school sports trainers, high school sports trainers, college athletic trainers, athletic recreation trainers, or league athletic trainers.
Physical therapy (PT) majors can earn master's or doctoral degrees in physical therapy. Those with a doctorate degree can work as physical therapists, while those with a master's degree can pursue supportive roles. Students in PT programs study anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, exercise science, sports medicine, physics, and gain clinical experience. Possible careers for PT majors include doctoral physical therapist, doctoral sports physical therapist, college or university sports PT, PT assistant, and athletic trainer.
Sport communication majors focus on broadcast and print journalism, radio hosting, on-air announcing, photography, fan interaction, and public relations related to sports clubs or leagues. This major offers bachelor's and master's degrees that prepare students for careers as sports team or athlete PR experts, league announcers, sports TV and radio hosts, sport writers, event photographers, and specialists in sports marketing.
In conclusion, pursuing a sports major can open up a multitude of career opportunities in various sectors of the sports industry. Whether you are interested in sports administration, marketing, science, medicine, healthcare, media, or education, there is a sports major that can help you achieve your career goals. With a solid foundation in the courses offered in sports majors, graduates can enter the workforce prepared to make a positive impact in the world of sports.