An online bachelor’s degree in sports medicine program may provide students with the skills and training needed to prevent, diagnose, and treat numerous muscle and bone injuries. Students enrolled in these four-year programs may learn how to administer first aid care, develop rehabilitation programs, and implement programs to prevent injuries in athletes. Coursework within these programs may include a handful of general education requirements in addition to electives and core courses, such as sports nutrition, exercise leadership, and human physiology.

Graduates in sports medicine may either seek entry-level employment or further their education and enroll in a master’s degree program. Bachelor’s degree graduates may find employment opportunities at schools, recreational sports facilities, and physicians’ offices.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 30% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within a bachelor’s-level program in sports medicine may combine several general education requirements alongside major-specific courses and electives. In these four-year programs, students may study exercise sciences, apply health and fitness assessments, and monitor specific exercise prescriptions. Core online sports medicine programs may include the following:

• Exercise Leadership
• Human Anatomy
• Human Physiology
• Sports Nutrition
• Health and Fitness
• Anatomy and Kinesiology
• Sports Administration and Law

Career Options

Graduates of online bachelor’s degree programs in sports medicine may find career opportunities at educational facilities, physicians’ offices, professional sports teams, and recreational sports centers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as athletic trainers are expected to increase by 30% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Sports Trainer
• Massage Therapist
• Chiropractor
• Occupational Therapist
• Recreational Therapist

Continuing Education

Graduates of online bachelor’s degree programs in sports medicine may continue their education and enroll in a master’s-level program in sports medicine or related field. These graduate-level programs may provide students additional training and research on strength and conditioning, exercise physiology, physical therapy, and respiratory therapy. Most employers may require candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree, although some may prefer individuals have a master’s degree as well. Many states require those who work as athletic trainers to have certifications or licensure.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook