Sports majors encompass a wide array of courses that delve into various aspects of the sports industry, including sports administration, marketing, science, and medicine. These majors equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue careers in sports, healthcare, media, and education. Some of the common 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, and sports facility accounting and financing.
There are numerous sports majors available for students to choose from at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Each major offers unique career options and opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a career in the sports industry. Here are five popular sports majors along with their respective career pathways:
1. Exercise Science: Exercise science majors focus on human movement and kinesiology, teaching students about anatomy and physiology, biological processes, sports nutrition, rehabilitation, and how to develop training and nutrition regimens for individuals of all ages and health needs. Graduates with an exercise science degree can pursue careers as athletic trainers, personal trainers, fitness coaches, physical education instructors, athletic scouts, and directors of sports.
2. Exercise Physiology: Exercise physiology majors study how the body responds to various physical activities and intensities. Students learn about exercise physiology foundations, anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, health and wellness, and sports performance. Career options for individuals with an exercise physiology degree include exercise physiologists, PT assistants, conditioning coaches, personal trainers, and rehabilitation experts.
3. Sports Training: Athletic training majors focus on providing first aid and rehabilitation for athletes. Students in athletic training programs study anatomy and physiology, first aid and CPR, exercise science, kinesiology, sports medicine, nutrition, and rehabilitation. Graduates can pursue careers as sports trainers in middle schools, high schools, colleges, universities, athletic recreation centers, and professional sports teams.
4. Physical Therapy (PT): Physical therapy degrees are offered at the master's and doctoral levels, with doctorate holders qualifying for roles as physical therapists and master's degree holders for supportive positions. Students in physical therapy programs study anatomy and physiology laboratories, kinesiology, exercise science and physiology, sports medicine, physics, and clinical practice. Career options for individuals with physical therapy degrees include doctoral physical therapists, sports physical therapists, college or university sports PTs, PT assistants, and athletic trainers.
5. Sport Communication: Sports communication majors learn about broadcast and print journalism, radio hosting, on-air announcing, photography, fan interaction, club or league public relations, and sports marketing. Graduates with a sports communication degree can pursue careers as sports team or athlete PR experts, league announcers, TV and radio hosts for sports shows, sports writers, event photographers, and sports marketing specialists.
In conclusion, sports majors offer a diverse range of courses and career opportunities for individuals passionate about the sports industry. Whether you are interested in sports administration, marketing, science, or medicine, pursuing a sports major can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career in various fields within the sports industry.