Sports majors encompass a wide range of courses that delve into the various aspects of the sports industry. From sports administration and marketing to sports science and medicine, students pursuing sports majors receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for careers in sports, healthcare, media, and education. These majors offer a variety of courses that cover topics such as physiology and anatomy, first aid and 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 pursue sports majors at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, with a wide range of sports-related majors that lead to various career options. One popular major is exercise science, which focuses on human movement and kinesiology. Students in this major learn about anatomy and physiology, biological processes, sports nutrition, rehabilitation, and how to utilize their knowledge to create training and nutrition plans for individuals with different age groups and health needs. Career options for exercise science majors include athletic trainer, personal trainer, fitness coach, physical education instructor, athletic scout, and director of sports.
Another popular major within sports is exercise physiology, which explores how the body responds to different physical activities and intensities. Students in this major take courses in exercise physiology foundations, anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, health and wellness, labs, and sports performance. Career options for exercise physiology majors include exercise physiologist, PT assistant, conditioning coach, personal training, and rehabilitation expert.
Sports training is a 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, rehabilitation, and gain hands-on experience working with professional trainers at sports events. Individuals pursuing athletic training majors prepare for the NATC test, which allows them to work as athletic trainers after completing their studies. Career options for sports training majors include middle school sports trainer, high school sports trainer, college athletic trainer, athletic recreation trainer, and league athletic trainer.
Physical therapy (PT) is another popular major within sports, offering master's and doctoral degrees for individuals interested in becoming physical therapists. To pursue a master's or PhD in physical therapy, students typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, sports science, athletic training, or a related field. Physical therapy programs cover anatomy and physiology laboratories, kinesiology, exercise science and physiology, sports medicine, physics, and clinical practice with experienced physical therapists. Graduates with physical therapy degrees can work as doctoral physical therapists, sports physical therapists, college or university sports PTs, PT assistants, and athletic trainers.
Lastly, sport communication is a major that focuses on broadcasting, print journalism, radio hosting, and on-air announcing within the sports industry. Students in sports communication programs learn about photography, fan interaction, club or league public relations, and how to create sports event content. Career options for sport communication majors include sports team or athlete PR experts, league announcers, hosts for sports TV and radio shows, sport writers, event photographers, and sports marketing specialists.
In conclusion, sports majors offer a diverse range of courses and career paths for individuals interested in pursuing a career in sports, healthcare, media, or education. Whether you're passionate about exercise science, exercise physiology, sports training, physical therapy, or sport communication, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and excel in the dynamic and exciting world of sports.