Sports majors encompass a wide range of courses that prepare students for careers in sports administration, marketing, science, and medicine. These majors equip graduates for various positions in sports, healthcare, media, and education. Some of the courses offered in sports degree programs include physiology and anatomy, first aid/CPR, kinaesthesis, psychophysiology, muscle mechanics, nutrition and health, dietetics, rehab and therapy, sports promotions and marketing, sports media and journalism, sports event and facilities management, as well as sports facility accounting and financing.
Students can choose to major in sports at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. There are numerous sports-related majors to choose from, each offering different career options. One popular major is exercise science, which focuses on human movement, also known as kinesiology. This major covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, biological processes, sports nutrition, and rehabilitation. Graduates with a degree in exercise science can pursue careers as athletic trainers, personal trainers, fitness coaches, physical education instructors, athletic scouts, or directors of sports.
Another major option is exercise physiology, which explores how the body responds to various physical activities and intensities. Students with a degree in exercise physiology can work as exercise physiologists, PT assistants, conditioning coaches, personal trainers, or rehabilitation experts. Sports training is another major that focuses on first aid and rehabilitation for athletes. Students in athletic training programs learn about anatomy and physiology, first aid and CPR, exercise science, kinesiology, sports medicine, nutrition, and rehabilitation. Upon completion of their degree, students can take the NATC test to become certified athletic trainers.
Physical therapy is another popular major in sports, with colleges and universities offering master's and doctoral degrees in this field. Graduates with a doctorate in physical therapy can work as physical therapists, while those with a master's degree can take on supportive roles. To pursue a degree in physical therapy, students typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, sports science, athletic training, or a related field. Courses usually cover anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, exercise science and physiology, sports medicine, physics, and clinical practice.
Lastly, a major in sport communication focuses on broadcast and print journalism, radio hosting, and on-air announcing in the context of sports. This degree covers classes on photography, fan interaction, and club or league public relations. Graduates with a degree in sport communication can work as sports team or athlete PR experts, league announcers, hosts of sports TV and radio shows, sport writers and event photographers, or specialists in sports marketing.
Overall, sports majors offer a diverse range of courses and career opportunities for students interested in the sports industry. Whether you choose to pursue a degree in exercise science, exercise physiology, sports training, physical therapy, or sport communication, there are plenty of options available to help you achieve your career goals in the world of sports.