Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Updated October 5, 2023
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Sports medicine is all about preventing injuries and helping athletes improve their performance.
Sports medicine professionals also diagnose and treat exercise-related injuries and design rehabilitation plans to help patients recover after an injury.
A master's in sports medicine prepares graduates for in-demand jobs like exercise physiologist and athletic trainer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these are growing fields that should add tens of thousands of jobs by 2028. Having a master's in sports medicine can help you stand out when applying for sports medicine jobs.
Our list ranks the best sports medicine colleges to help prospective graduate students find the right program to help them reach their professional goals. This page also provides information about sports medicine salary rates and career prospects, the benefits of an online sports medicine degree, and how to choose the best sports medicine program.
Best Online Master's in Sports Medicine Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
The University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in sports medicine degree at the University of Wyoming, located in Laramie, uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of science in exercise and sports science and health promotion and education program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in sports medicine.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
The University of Wyoming at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 96%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of Science in Exercise and Sports Science and Health Promotion and Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,878
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,598
#2 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
The University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in sports medicine, offered by The University of Texas at El Paso, ranks as a top program. The master of science in kinesiology draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of sports medicine. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in sports medicine.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of Texas at El Paso at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 100%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Science in Kinesiology
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,497
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,766
#3 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in health science can earn their degree from Sam Houston State University, located in Huntsville, Texas. The master of science in kinesiology: sport and human performance program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on health science. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on prior health science experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Science in Kinesiology: Sport and Human Performance
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,765
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,361
#4 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Concordia University, St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in sports management, offered by Concordia University, St. Paul, ranks as a top program. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in exercise science. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of sports management. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in sports management or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Concordia University, St. Paul at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 98%
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Program Name: Master of Science in Exercise Science
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,550
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,550
#5 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
The University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Greeley, the University of Northern Colorado enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online sports medicine program. The master of arts in teaching in physical education and physical activity leadership program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to sports medicine. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with prior experience in sports medicine or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of Northern Colorado at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 91%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Arts in Teaching in Physical Education and Physical Activity Leadership
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,867
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,620
#6 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in sports medicine degree at Texas Woman's University, located in Denton, prioritizes flexibility. The master of science in kinesiology helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on sports medicine. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in sports medicine or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Texas Woman's University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 93%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Kinesiology
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,973
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,569
#7 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Boca Raton, Florida Atlantic University offers an online master's in sports medicine. The master of science in exercise science and health promotion program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to sports medicine. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in sports medicine or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Florida Atlantic University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 63%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,467
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,695
#8 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online sports medicine degree can enroll in the master's program at California Baptist University, located in Riverside. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in kinesiology program. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to sports medicine. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in sports medicine or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
California Baptist University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Science in Kinesiology
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,830
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,830
#9 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
The University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Warrensburg, the University of Central Missouri enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online sports medicine program. The master of science in sport management emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in sports medicine. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in sports medicine before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Central Missouri at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of Science in Sport Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,524
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,048
#10 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in sports medicine at Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, offers high academic quality. The master of science in exercise science and wellness program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in sports medicine. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a degree in sports medicine or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Master of Science in Exercise Science and Wellness
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
#11 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Cedar City, Southern Utah University offers an online master's in sports medicine. The master's in sports conditioning and performance program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants with a background in sports medicine typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Southern Utah University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master's in Sports Conditioning and Performance
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,574
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,784
#12 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's in sports management can earn their degree from Georgia Southern University, located in Statesboro. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in kinesiology: physical education. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in sports management. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in sports management typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Science in Kinesiology: Physical Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
#13 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in sports medicine program at The University of Texas Permian Basin, located in Odessa, offers a flexible online format. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in athletic training program. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in sports medicine. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in sports medicine or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
The University of Texas Permian Basin at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 88%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of Science in Athletic Training
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,594
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $5,220
#14 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Kingsville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in sports medicine, offered by Texas A&M University-Kingsville, ranks as a top program. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of science in kinesiology program. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants who majored in sports medicine or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Texas A & M University-Kingsville at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of Science in Kinesiology
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,228
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,824
#15 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Concordia University Chicago
River Forest, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in River Forest, Illinois, Concordia University Chicago hosts a top-ranked master's in sports management program. The master of science in applied exercise science program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in sports management. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a sports management background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Concordia University Chicago at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 48
Program Name: Master of Science in Applied Exercise Science
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,910
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,910
#16 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Lenoir-Rhyne University
Hickory, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Hickory, North Carolina, Lenoir-Rhyne University hosts a top-rated online master's in sports medicine. The master of science in exercise science program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a sports medicine background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Lenoir-Rhyne University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of Science in Exercise Science
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,980
#17 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Auburn University at Montgomery
Montgomery, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Montgomery, Alabama, Auburn University at Montgomery offers an online master's in sports medicine. The master's in sports management program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in sports medicine. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in sports medicine or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Auburn University at Montgomery at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 90%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master's in Sports Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,362
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,542
#18 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
The University of Louisiana Monroe
Monroe, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in sports medicine degree at the University of Louisiana Monroe uses a flexible distance learning format. The master of science in exercise science: sport management program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes sports medicine research methods and analytical skills. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The admission requirements include a background in sports medicine or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
The University of Louisiana Monroe at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of Science in Exercise Science: Sport Management
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,490
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,590
#19 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online sports medicine degree can enroll in the master's program at McNeese State University, located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The master of science in health and human performance: health promotion program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in sports medicine or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
McNeese State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of Science in Health and Human Performance: Health Promotion
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,703
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,740
#20 Best Online Master’s in Sports Medicine
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi enrolls master's students in its online sports medicine program. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of science in kinesiology: sport and exercise science program. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants who majored in sports medicine or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of Science in Kinesiology: Sport and Exercise Science
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,568
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,661
Online Master's in Sports Medicine Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following schools based on the quality of their programs and the types of courses provided. We also considered school awards, rankings, and reputations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Sports Medicine?
Sports medicine focuses on the prevention and treatment of sports injuries. Sports medicine professionals also help athletes improve their performance and recover from injuries.
How Long Is a Sports Medicine Degree?
A master's in sports medicine generally takes two years for full-time students.
How Much Does a Sports Medicine Doctor Make?
On average, sports medicine doctors earn over $183,000 per year, according to PayScale. However, sports medicine physicians must hold a medical degree.
What's the Difference Between Sports Medicine and Orthopedics?
Both fields focus on the musculoskeletal system. However, sports medicine emphasizes non-operative treatments for sports-related injuries, while orthopedics often involves surgery.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Sports Medicine?
A master's in sports medicine prepares graduates for careers like athletic trainer, exercise physiologist, or sports nutritionist. Graduates can also pursue a medical degree to become a sports medicine physician.
What Is Sports Medicine?
Sports medicine treats injuries and illnesses related to athletics, occupations, and exercise. Sports medicine professionals serve children who sustain minor injuries like sprained ankles, elite adult athletes at the peak of their performance, and professionals who suffer repetitive stress injuries. Specialists in sports medicine can help athletes prevent injury during training for specific sports. They can also diagnose and treat injuries related to exercise.
Sports medicine professionals may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, doctor's offices, or on athletic fields.
Sports medicine draws on several other disciplines, including physiology, anatomy, nutrition, and medicine. Sports medicine professionals require specialized education and training in these disciplines. Enrolling in an online master's in sports medicine program builds the knowledge and skills necessary for sports medicine careers.
Within the field of sports medicine, professionals can specialize in many areas. Athletic trainers provide the first line of defense against sports-related injuries on the field. Sports medicine doctors diagnose and treat injuries in a medical setting. Sports nutritionists focus on food as fuel for exercise, while exercise physiologists design rehabilitative exercise programs.
Sports medicine professionals may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, doctor's offices, or on athletic fields.
What Is a Master's in Sports Medicine Degree?
A master's degree in sports medicine provides advanced, focused training for professionals considering sports medicine careers like athletic trainer or sports medicine doctor. During a sports medicine program, learners study exercise physiology, sports nutrition, and sport psychology to better understand how to treat athletes and patients recovering from injuries and illnesses.
The degree emphasizes both classroom knowledge and experiential learning. Sports medicine colleges include clinical requirements to build the practical skills necessary for careers in the field. Graduate students also gain graduate-level training in physiology, nutrition, and biomechanics.
Incoming sports medicine students with clinical backgrounds can enroll in the degree to gain specialized training in sports medicine. Other students enter the program without prior sports medicine experience. Either way, the degree meets the qualifications for many sports medicine jobs.
Choosing an Online Master's in Sports Medicine Program
The cost, program length, and clinical requirements of sports medicine degrees can vary, so prospective sports medicine students must consider these factors when choosing the best sports medicine college to meet their professional goals. The following section explores factors that prospective students should consider before choosing a program.
The total cost of a degree includes tuition, fees, and related expenses. While in-state public schools generally charge the lowest tuition rates, out-of-state schools may offer tuition discounts for online students.
Sports medicine colleges that accept transfer credits can save students time and money on their degrees. Many programs offer a free transcript evaluation to determine transfer credits.
Some students prefer smaller class sizes with more individual attention from instructors. Others benefit from the peer support of a larger cohort of students and a wider alumni network.
While a sports medicine master's degree generally takes two years to complete, the total number of required credits and the number of required clinical hours can affect program length.
Some online sports medicine programs include on-campus requirements, such as an orientation or on-campus labs, while others do not require any campus visits. Ensure that you can meet any in-person requirements before committing to a program.
Most sports medicine programs do not require a thesis, but they may incorporate an internship, practicum, or capstone project. Prospective students should research clinical requirements for online students before enrolling in a program.
Online Master's in Sports Medicine Curriculum
During an online master's program in sports medicine, students take courses in sports nutrition, exercise physiology, and sport psychology. They also learn how to evaluate, prevent, manage, and treat sports injuries.
In addition to coursework, sports medicine programs also incorporate clinical hours. By completing labs and practicums, graduate students build the practical skills needed for sports medicine careers.
This section covers common courses in sports medicine programs, popular formats for online programs, and how long it takes to earn a sports medicine degree.
- Exercise Physiology: Exercise physiology courses examine human physiology and the body's changes during exercise. Graduate students learn about the body's response to acute and chronic exercise, including circulatory and respiratory responses. The course also covers environmental factors in athletic performance. The course prepares students to apply exercise physiology in their sports medicine jobs after graduation.
- Sports Nutrition: Sports nutrition courses explore the effects of nutrient selection and metabolism on physical performance. Graduate students learn about evidence-based strategies to improve performance with nutrition. Coursework may also incorporate case studies to provide experiential learning. The course prepares graduates for many certification exams in exercise science.
- Applied Anatomy: In applied anatomy courses, students explore the structure and physiology of the human body. In a sports medicine degree, the course emphasizes skeletal and muscular systems often linked to injuries. Students also learn about the relationship between different structures and their role in human movement and exercise.
- Injury Evaluation and Management: During this course, students focus on treating common sports injuries. The class trains students in advanced injury assessment techniques like soft tissue stretching. Learners also study the referral and re-entry process for sports injuries.
- Sports Psychology: Sports psychology courses examine how athletes behave and explore how psychological intervention methods can enhance athletic performance. Learners also study human behavior patterns in a sports setting, focusing on the psychological difference between sports and exercise.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master's in Sports Medicine Program?
Many of the best sports medicine colleges offer online master's degrees. Several factors shape how long a master's in sports medicine will take, including the program's total credit requirements, clinical hours, and enrollment options.
Earning a sports medicine degree online generally takes two years for full-time students. Some programs offer accelerated enrollment options that can speed up this timeline. Students with prior graduate school experience can also apply transfer credits toward the degree.
During a master's in sports medicine program, graduate students complete coursework requirements while also gaining practical skills through field experience. Many programs place online sports medicine students with local sports teams, athletes, or rehabilitation clinics to complete lab and practicum requirements. Sports medicine students with prior clinical experience may be able to waive some clinical requirements.
Online sports medicine colleges offer courses in asynchronous or synchronous formats. An asynchronous format requires no set class times, which is ideal for busy students balancing school with personal or professional responsibilities. Synchronous programs require that online learners meet with instructors and fellow students for live course sessions, which can create a better support network.
Sports Medicine Careers
A master's in sports medicine meets the requirements for many exciting sports medicine jobs, including athletic trainer and exercise physiologist. In these roles, professionals evaluate injuries on the field, design treatment plans in coordination with physicians, and help athletes recover from injuries. A sports medicine degree also provides a solid foundation for in-demand jobs in nutrition and dietetics.
Some sports medicine careers require additional study. For example, a sports medicine doctor or sports medicine physician must hold a medical degree. After earning a sports medicine master's degree, graduates can pursue additional study.
Athletic Trainers
Athletic trainers work with athletes to diagnose, treat, and prevent injuries. They apply injury-prevention devices, provide first aid, and design rehabilitation programs. Athletic trainers also evaluate and assess injuries and illnesses, often on the field where injuries occur. As a result, athletic trainers often perform initial injury treatments for athletes.
In addition to treating injuries, athletic trainers create programs to build athleticism and prevent injuries. They also write reports on their treatment programs. Many work under the direction of physicians, and most states require a license or certification to work as an athletic trainer.
Exercise Physiologists
Exercise physiologists create fitness programs for patients recovering from chronic issues like cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases. They must assess a patient's medical history, evaluate the risk of exercise, and design a custom exercise program to meet each patient's needs. Exercise physiologists also perform fitness tests and measure health indicators like blood pressure to assess a patient's health.
Many exercise physiologists work closely with physicians to create individualized exercise plans for patients. This career path requires at least a bachelor's degree with coursework in kinesiology, nutrition, and anatomy. Many employers also require basic health certifications.
Dietitians and Nutritionists
Dietitians and nutritionists advise clients on what to eat to help them achieve health goals or build and maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also help people manage diseases through dietary changes. Dietitians and nutritionists assess each patient's nutritional and health needs to build customized meal plans, encourage healthy eating habits, and document patient progress over time.
As part of their job responsibilities, dietitians and nutritionists create educational materials, speak to groups about nutrition, and provide resources on managing diseases like diabetes. They typically hold at least a bachelor's degree with a focus on nutrition, and many hold master's degrees. In most states, dietitians and nutritionists must hold a license or certification.
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