25 Most Affordable Master’s in Sports Medicine Online

The most affordable master’s in Sports Medicine online programs offer a flexible path for working professionals to earn an advanced degree. Sports medicine combines the passion for sports with knowledge of the human body and how it works. With a master’s, you could take on a long list of possible careers.

Now, many sports medicine careers don’t require a master’s degree. Many only require a bachelor’s degree. However, an advanced degree in sports medicine can help you expand your career possibilities. You might use your degree to move from entry-level positions into leadership roles. On the flip side, you may also stick with your current role but negotiate a higher salary.

You’ll also need a master’s degree if you eventually want to earn a PhD or another doctorate. For example, a lot of sports medicine experts become chiropractors. If that’s your goal, you’ll need a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. An advanced degree in sports medicine can provide a great stepping stone.


Methodology for Ranking the Most Affordable Master’s in Sports Medicine Online

The editors at Fast Online Master’s seek out accredited, reputable institutions offering programs for an online Master’s in Sports Medicine. Programs are ranked by tuition cost, using current IPEDS data. 

Featured Schools:


1. Sul Ross State University

The College of Education & Professionals Studies at Sul Ross State University, in conjunction with the Department of Kinesiology and Human Performance (SUL Ross), offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Health & Human Performance (HPP). This program is among the leading campus-based and online accelerated master’s programs in the Lone Star State and beyond. The accelerated master’s degree program has a one-year option for full-time students. And part-time graduate students can complete the two-year academic track. Additionally, the school offers its students an impressive 15 to one student to faculty ratio.

Sul Ross State University prepares students for rewarding careers in exercise physiology, sports recreation, personal fitness, public health education, sports officiating, and also facility management. Degree candidates enrolled in this Masters in Sports Medicine online program must complete at least 30 masters-level academic credits, which includes a six-hour practicum.

More: Program Website


2. Texas A&M University Commerce

Top 30 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Library and Information Sciences Online for 2019

The School of Education and Human Services at Texas A&M University in Commerce offers a MS in Health, Kinesiology & Sports Studies. This graduate program features an Exercise Science academic track in a blended format, with most of the coursework offered online. Texas A&M University’s accelerated Master’s requires students to complete 36 graduate-level credits over a two-year timeframe. Students enrolled in the university’s online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine have the opportunity to earn this degree with a thesis or without.

Texas A&M University-Commerce’s Master of Science requires an internship to meet graduation requirements. Previous internships include the Institute of Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Michel Johnson Performance, or Craig Ranch’s Fitness Spa. Texas A&M’s Masters in Online degree program prepares students for careers as exercise physiologists, strength & conditioning coaches, or recreational therapists.

More: Program Website


3. The McNeese State University

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McNeese State University (MSU) offers a Master of Science degree in Health & Human Performance with an exercise physiology concentration. The program is among Louisiana’s leading online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine. McNeese State University’s accelerated master’s requires degree candidates to complete 33 graduate credits. Additionally, students must complete the program within six years from their start date. Transfer credits are permitted with a B grade or better.

Applicants to McNeese State University’s degree program must hold a bachelor’s degree or minor in health & human performance or a related field. Coursework for McNeese State University’s Masters in Online degree program includes analysis of health care delivery systems, advanced physiology of exercise, the physiological basis of human performance, plus an internship, to name a few.

More: Program Website


4. Texas A&M University Corpus Christi

Texas A&M University’s (TAMUCC) College of Education and Human Development offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Kinesiology with an academic concentration in Sport & Exercise Science that is one of the southern US’s leading online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine. This MS degree in sports medicine requires degree candidates to complete a minimum of 36 semester hours to graduate. Students enrolled in Texas A&M University’s accelerated Master’s program have the choice of three completion projects. They can choose a non-thesis with a research project, or a non-thesis with comprehensive exams.

Texas A&M University’s Masters in an online degree program includes classes in sports physiology, biometrics, research design in Kinesiology, sport psychology, motor development in sports, program design in resistance training, sports nutrition, athletic testing, leadership in Kinesiology, and the principles of strength and conditioning, plus a related internship, to name a few.

More: Program Website


5. Southern Utah University

southern-utah-university

Southern Utah University (SUU) offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Sports Conditioning & Performance (CSP). This program is among Utah’s most innovative online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine. SUU’s accelerated Master’s program has an on-campus residence for one to two weeks during the summer. This MS degree in sports medicine and condition is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association and ranked among the top six affordable programs in the nation. The total credits required to complete this graduate degree are 33.

Southern Utah University’s (SUU) Master of Science in Sports Conditioning can be completed in one year, but students are given six years to earn the degree. Featured classes for Southern Utah University’s Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program include psychological aspects of sports performance and conditioning, introduction to sports science research, bioenergetics & sports nutrition, plus a thesis, to name a few.

More: Program Website


6. The University of Texas at Tyler

The University of Texas’ (UT-Tyler) Dept. of Health & Kinesiology offers an affordable Master of Science degree (MS) in Kinesiology that offers the flexibility and convenience required for working professionals. UT Tyler’s accelerated Master’s program is among the most innovative online accelerated master’s programs in Texas and the southern US. This 36-hour graduate degree from the University of Texas in sports medicine offers a completion examination and internship or a thesis as a culminating project.

The University of Texas’ graduate sports medicine degree program includes coursework in biometric methods, exercise physiology, motor learning, research design, and cardiorespiratory exercise physiology, to name a few. Graduates of the University of Texas’ Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program find rewarding careers as choices, exercise physiologists, personal trainers, wellness coaches, or health and wellness promotion specialists, among others.

More: Program Website


7. Sam Houston State University

Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Sports Medicine Online for 2019

Sam Houston State University’s College of Health Sciences (SHSU CHS) offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Kinesiology with an academic concentration in Sport and Human Performance (SHP) that is considered among the Lone Star State’s best online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine. Degree candidates enrolled in Sam Houston State University’s accelerated Master’s program are required to finish 30 to 36-semester credits, depending on the exact chosen path of study. Sam Houston State University’s graduate degree in sports medicine is offered with the start dates each year.

Enrolled students explore the relationship between exercise, skills, and movement in terms of training, development, and rehabilitation. Sam Houston State University’s affordable Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program prepares graduates for rewarding careers in the fields of corporate wellness, college coaching, personal training, athletic performance improvement, and commercial fitness, to name a few.

More: Program Website


8. The Concordia University of Chicago

concordia-university-chicago

Concordia University Chicago (CUC) offers a variety of the leading online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine available in the Midwest and beyond. These accelerated Master’s program options include Master of Science in Applied Exercise Science degrees in exercise physiology, human movement science, sports nutrition, strength and conditioning, and sports performance training. Classes for most sports medicine programs offer tuition guarantees, small asynchronous class sizes (with only 20 students in each class), and start dates every eight weeks.

Concordia University-Chicago’s Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program options are offered completed online with dual concentrations available by adding 12 credits to existing programs. Featured coursework for these applied exercise science degrees include research design and methods in exercise science, applied exercise physiology, and exercise & sports nutrition, plus a culminating capstone project, to name a few.

More: Program Website


9. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

The College of Health Profession, in conjunction with the Dept of Health & Human Performance (UTRGV Health) at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Kinesiology. This program is among the most innovative campus-based or online accelerated master’s programs. UTRGV’s accelerated master’s program requires enrolled students to complete 36 master’s level credits, with or without a culminating thesis option.

The University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley offers students the option of individualizing the program while completing mandatory requirements. The mission of this University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program is to prepare degree candidates to work in a number of Kinesiology fields, promoting healthy lifestyles and improving the quality of client lives through the delivery of wellness and exercise programs.

More: Program Website


10. The University of Texas at El Paso

university-of-texas-at-el-paso

The College of Health Sciences along with the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Texas at El Paso, offers a MS in Kinesiology. This program is among the most innovative online accelerated master’s programs in Texas and beyond. UT El Paso’s accelerated master’s program offers students small class sizes, opportunities to participate in funded research, teaching assistant positions for qualified degree candidates, spring and fall start dates, and state-of-the-art labs with research equipment and instrumentation.

The University of Texas-El Paso’s Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program includes these featured classes – measuring exercise physiology, measuring technical biomechanics, advanced exercise physiology, and motor learning and control, to name a few. In addition, degree candidates assist in the research of motor learning, human fitness, and strength & condition, among others.

More: Program Website


11. Fresno Pacific University

Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Sports Medicine Online for 2019

Fresno Pacific University (FPU) offers one of California’s most innovative and best online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine with its Master of Arts degree (MA) in Athletic Training, as noted by OnlineColelge.org. This accelerated and affordable Master’s program from Fresno Pacific University requires the completion of 30 graduate semester units, with an average completion time of 13 months. Students completing Fresno Pacific University’s Master of Arts degree in athletic training are eligible to earn Board of Certification (BOC) continuing education.

Fresno Pacific University Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program is designed for post-professional athletic training specialists as the coursework offers intensive and comprehensive study in the areas of administration, evidence-based practice, research methods, the psychological aspects of injuries, sports law & ethics, rehabilitation, athletic training teaching methods, and rehabilitation & therapeutic exercise, among others.

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12. Indiana Wesleyan University

Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Sports Medicine Online for 2019

The School of Health Sciences at Indiana Wesleyan University offers a Master of Science degree in Athletic Training (MSAT). IWU’s accelerated master’s program requires enrolled students to complete a minimum of 33 graduate units. Additionally, the program uses state of art labs and a variety of clinical placements for enrolled degree candidates.

This masters in Sports Medicine online degree program from Indiana Wesleyan University includes core and elective classes. Some courses include Athletic Training Epidemiology, Advanced Psychosocial Issues in Athletic Training, Nutritional and Pharmacological Aspects of Sports Performance, Leadership & Management in Athletic Training, Health Information Technology, and Informatics in Athletics Training. Students also take a seminar in athletic training and two 2-week intensive training sections in Anatomy and Emergency Management Techniques.

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13. Logan University

Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Sports Medicine Online for 2019

Logan University (Logan Health) offers a Master of Science degree in Sports Science and Rehabilitation (MS SSR) that is ranked among the nation’s best online accelerated master’s programs in sports management by Sports Management Degree Hub and Bestcolleges.com. Additionally, Logan University’s Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. This master’s degree in sports medicine is customizable to meet a student’s academic and career goals.

In addition to a clinical practicum, students enrolled in Logan University’s accelerated Master’s program must finish 37 to 39 graduate units to meet Logan University’s requirements. Featured classes include sports and emergency care, anatomy of human motion, nutrition & physical performance, exercise & cardiorespiratory physiology, the psychology of the athlete, principles of physical therapy, and research methods in healthcare, to name a few. Graduates are eligible to complete a Doctor of Chiropractic, which, upon graduation, are eligible to sit for the Certified Chiropractor Sports Physician.

More: Program Website


14. Concordia University at St. Paul

concordia-university-st-paul

The College of Health & Science (CUSP Health) at Concordia University St. Paul offers a Master of Science degree program (MS) in Exercise Science. This program furthers the knowledge and skills of current and future exercise science professionals to work with a diverse population. Concordia University’s online degree is among Minnesota’s most innovative online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine. This graduate degree from Concordia University requires degree candidates to complete a minimum of 33-semester credit units.

Coursework for Concordia University-St. Paul’s accelerated Master’s program includes the psychology of sport and exercises clinical exercise assessment, the mechanisms of skilled neuromuscular behavior, ethics & sociology in sports, and nutrition and metabolism, plus a capstone project. Concordia University-St. Paul’s master’s degree in sports medicine also offers a study abroad opportunity for enrolled students.

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15. The University of Louisiana at Monroe

Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Sports Medicine Online for 2019

The University of Louisiana-Monroe’s (ULM Grad School) College of Health Sciences offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Exercise Science, with an academic concentration in Sports Management that is recognized among the most innovative of Louisiana’s online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine. This affordable 36 credit Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree from the University of Louisiana has received accreditation from CAAHEP –  the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and is endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine.

The University of Louisiana-Monroe’s accelerated Master’s program requires applicants to hold a bachelor’s level accredited academic degree in sport management, exercise science or kinesiology, or a related field. Required classes for the University of Louisiana-Monroe’s graduate sports medicine degree include the physiology of exercise, nutrition and wellness, and exercise electrocardiograph, to name a few. Degree candidates can opt for an internship or thesis completion project.

More: Program Website


16. The University of the Southwest

university-of-the-southwest

The College of Arts & Sciences (USW Business) at the University of the Southwest offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Sports Psychology. This program prepares students to understand and apply the psychological and physical aspects of playing sports. The University of the Southwest’s online degree is among New Mexico’s leading IABCBE-accredited online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine.

The University of the Southwest’s 36 credit accelerated Master’s program curriculum explores the many effective methods that help individuals and teams improve their performance by eliminating emotional obstacles. Featured classes include cognitive psychology, applied sport psychology, health & human behavior, legal & ethical issues in psychology, cognitive & social psychology methods, and analysis, among others. Graduates of USW’s master’s degree find rewarding careers as a teacher, coach, athlete, or mentor, among others.

More: Program Website


17. Texas A&M University at Kingsville

Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Sports Medicine Online for 2019

The College of Education and the Department of Health & Kinesiology at Texas A&M University Kingsville (TAMUK) offers a Master of Science degree (MS) in Kinesiology. This academic track in Sport Management offers three graduation paths. Students can choose from completing a thesis, course-only, and research project or internship. Texas A&M University’s online degree requires the completion of at least 30 to 40 credits, depending on the selected path of study and graduation option.

Texas A&M University’s online accelerated master’s programs in Kinesiology offer these advanced elective class options – sports marketing and technology sport finance, international sports governance, sport, and athletic law, and the psychology aspects of Kinesiology, to name a few. The core curriculum featured in the accelerated Master’s program includes research in Kinesiology, administration of athletics, and statistical analysis for sport medicine professionals, among others.

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18. A.T. Still University

Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Sports Medicine Online for 2019

A.T. Still University’s (ATSU) College of Graduate Health Studies offers an affordable Master of Science in Kinesiology (MSK) designed for a post-professional Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program. In addition, A.T. Still University’s online accelerated master’s programs in Kinesiology have been accredited by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Degree candidates enrolled in A.T. Still University’s master’s degree in Kinesiology must complete 42 graduate units or 45 units if enrolled in a dual degree program.

A.T. Still University’s affordable accelerated Master’s program offers these specialization academic paths – adaptive sports, exercise & sport psychology, corrective exercise & orthopedic rehabilitation, geriatric exercise science, and sports conditioning. Students can expect to complete classes in functional anatomy, advanced exercise prescription, biomechanics, exercise & sport-related nutrition, advanced fitness nutrition, and motor control, to name a few.

More: Program Website


19. Ashland University

Top 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Sports Medicine Online for 2019

Ashland University’s Schar College of Nursing & Health Sciences (AU Health) offers a Master of Science degree program in Applied Exercise Science (AES) that is considered among leading Ohio online accelerated master’s programs in Applied Exercise Science. This Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program from Ashland University can be completed in only 15 months. Featured classes include scientific foundations of nutrition in sport, ethics and professional responsibility, the physiological basis of exercise and sport, and the principle of strength training and condition, to name a few.

Ashland University’s graduates are eligible to sit for either the HFI certification or the Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist. Students graduating from this affordable, accelerated Master’s program find rewarding careers in the areas of coaching, fitness education, health & wellness directors, or even pursue further education in physical or occupational physical therapy.

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20. The University of Western States

university-of-western-states

The University of Western States (UWS) offers a Master of Science degree program in Sports Medicine, one of the west coast’s leading Ohio online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine. This master’s is in a hybrid format and students can complete it in as few as 1.5 years. In addition, the University of Western States affordable graduate degree in sports medicine requires the completion of a minimum of 42.7-semester credits or 64 quarter credits. Practicing professionals may have specific credit requirements waived based on previous education and/or experience.

This accelerated Master’s program includes several sports medicine-related practicums plus these featured classes – extremity biomechanics, spinal rehabilitation, sports nutrition, sport psychology, special populations, biostatistics, exercise physiology, sports performance enhancement, to name a few.

More: Program Website


21. Louisiana State University

The College of Human Sciences & Education at Louisiana State University Online offers an affordable Master of Science (MS) in Sports Management. And it is among the most affordable online accelerated master’s programs in sports medicine. Louisiana State University’s online degree program is a non-thesis degree with ongoing professional relationships with the NBA, the NFL, MLB, LSU athletics, and the state high school athletic association. Degree candidates enrolled in LSU’s sports program are required to earn a minimum of thirty-six credit units to meet Louisiana State University’s graduation criteria for this Commission on Sports Management Accredited (COSMA) program.

Louisiana State University’s featured coursework for this accelerated Master’s degree program includes financial issues in sport, sports law, administrative problems in Kinesiology, facilities management, economic issues in sport, and sport management current topics, plus a sports management field experience.

More: Program Website


22. Manchester University

The College of Pharmacy, Natural and Health Sciences at Manchester University offers a Master of Athletic Training (MAT) degree. The program is one of Indiana’s leading online accelerated master’s programs in athletic training. This accelerated degree program has accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. Additionally, it offers degree candidates small class sizes, affordable tuition, hands-on experiential classes, and the earned eligibility to sit for the BOC certification exam.

Manchester University’s Masters online degree program prepares students for rewarding careers in the areas of secondary schools, colleges, youth sports leagues, clinics, hospitals, physical therapy, professional dance/music studios, and other professional medical settings.  The previous year’s enrollment for this program was 24 students, with more than half from the Midwest.

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23. University of Lynchburg

The University of Lynchburg (UL) offers a Master of Science degree in Athletic Training (MSAT) ranked among the Commonwealth of Virginia’s leading CAATE-accredited online accelerated master’s programs in athletic training. The required semester credits for the University of Lynchburg’s accelerated Master’s degree program are 66. Graduates of the University of Lynchburg’s graduate degree in athletic training are eligible to pursue a career as a Certified Athletic Trainer as they are eligible to sit for the BOC exam.

This affordable Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program offered by the University of Lynchburg requires coursework in human gross anatomy, orthopedic examination techniques, therapeutic intervention, advanced exercise physiology, sports & exercise nutrition, and athletic training administration and organization, plus the choice of a research project or thesis, to name a few. Graduates find rewarding careers in professional or collegiate sports, cutting-edge medical/training clinics, and hospitals around the nation.

More: Program Website for more about this graduate athletic training program.


24. California Baptist University

Top 50 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Business Management Online California Baptist University

The interdisciplinary Master of Science in Kinesiology at California Baptist University (CBU) is an affordable option. The program integrates the advanced study of fitness and wellness, the science of human motion, and research methodologies. CBU’s accelerated Master’s degree program is WASC accredited and among the leading online accelerated master’s programs in Kinesiology on the west coast. Sample classes for this degree include ethics & leadership in Kinesiology, sports nutrition, exercise & fitness education, and legal aspects of Kinesiology.

California Baptist University’s 30-credit Masters in Sports Medicine Online degree program is specifically designed to meet the needs of working learners, using innovative videos and virtual lectures. In addition, California Baptist University’s Kinesiology degree is accredited by the National Strength & Conditioning Association. On average, students enrolled in the master’s Kinesiology program finish the degree in about a year.

More: Program Website


25. The University of Wyoming

Top 35 Most Affordable Accelerated Master's in Higher Education Online for 2019

The Division of Kinesiology & Health at the University of Wyoming offers an affordable Master of Science degree in Kinesiology & Health. It is one of the best online accelerated master’s programs in Wyoming. This Masters Online degree program offers several on-campus academic tracks – exercise & sport science, health, and teacher education in physical education. The online track is available for physical education teacher- education, with the non-thesis option.

Required classes for the University of Wyoming’s accelerated Master’s program include ten credits of research methods. Additionally students take Statistical Methods for Biological Science and Investigations in Kinesiology and Health. The total credit units for this graduate degree in Kinesiology and health are 40. The degree also requires a culminating case study or project. Additionally, degree candidates may opt for an internship or practicum or an independent study.

More: Program Website


What Is Sports Medicine?

Sports medicine is a specialized branch of medicine. It focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and illnesses related to physical activity. And it includes health promotion, injury prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries. Sports medicine specialists use evidence-based treatments, including physical therapy, nutrition, and conditioning, to help
professional sports athletes return to participating in physical activities at the highest possible levels.


What Kind of Online Sports Medicine Programs Are There?

An online masters program in sports medicine can be a traditional on-campus or in-person program. Or students can enroll in an online degree program. Programs focus on health and human performance, physical education pedagogy, physical education teaching, sports performance training concentration, sport sociology, rehabilitation counselor education program, sport nutrition, athletic administration, sport and physical education, among others.


What are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s in Sports Medicine Programs?

Admission requirements for Master’s in Sports Medicine programs can vary widely by school and program. Generally, applicants will need to have a bachelor’s degree and demonstrate good academic standing. Prerequisites may vary, but most schools will require courses in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, as well as statistics and research methods.

Additionally, some universities may also require applicants to have some of the below items.

  • a Clinical Exercise Physiology certification
  • cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • standardized test scores such as the GRE or MCAT
  • letters of recommendation
  • personal statement

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master’s in Sports Medicine Program?

Accelerated online programs are fast-paced, intense, and short. They require the same amount of credit hours but in a shorter time. For example, sometimes you may need to take three intensive summer courses back to back. This schedule makes it hard for students to work. So many prospective students use financial aid and complete the coursework online.


What Kind of Online Courses Do You Take in Sports Medicine?

What is the online Master’s in Sports Medicine curriculum? Online students who enroll in coursework online take basic core classes. Some of these classes are health and human performance, athletic administration, clinical exercise physiology, exercise physiology, advanced human nutrition, sports health, sport skill analysis, sports coaching, and also exercise psychology.


Is It Smart to Apply for Financial Aid?

Students who take online classes can save money on living expenses and other items. But generally, online courses are more intense and faster-paced. Therefore, getting financial aid is very helpful. So, you can focus on your courses and finish faster.

After college, you can look for a job with a company that would pay your loan back partially and sometimes fully. Financial aid, when used responsibly, can really help students achieve dreams they otherwise could not attain.


Is a Master’s in Sports Medicine Worth It?

Is a master’s in sports medicine worth it? Well, that’s up to you. If you’re generally satisfied with your life and career, then your bachelor’s degree is probably enough. However, if you feel like your career has stagnated, and you want to open your possibilities, then a master’s degree can help.

Before you decide if a master’s degree is worth it, ask yourself about your priorities and goals. For example, do you have a specific career goal in mind? With some careers, a master’s degree can make a big salary difference. In other careers, the difference is minimal.

Keep in mind that you have more options than ever these days. If on-campus courses won’t work for you, you can earn a master’s in sports medicine online. Online degrees work well for adult learners with busy schedules. By earning your master’s online, you can develop your skills without driving to campus every day.

Another option is the accelerated master’s. With an accelerated master’s in sports medicine, you could earn your degree in as little as a year. Look into online accelerated master’s programs, too. These programs provide flexibility, but they also let you take enough classes to speed up your degree.


Sports Medicine Careers

There are many career paths in the field of Sports Medicine. For example, you might become a physical therapist. Physical therapists help athletes recover after injuries. This position often requires a master’s degree or higher. You might also become an athletic trainer. Trainers help athletes improve their technique to prevent injury. This position generally requires a bachelor’s degree, but some teams and organizations prefer candidates with a master’s. A master’s degree can also help you qualify for educational positions. If you want to teach in college settings, then you’ll definitely need a master’s.

  • Athletic Trainers
  • Exercise Physiologists
  • Dietitians and Nutritionists

How Much Can You Make with a Master’s in Sports Medicine?

Whether you look for an accelerated master’s in medical sports, online accelerated master’s programs, or more traditional options, you can increase your salary with your degree. Your salary will depend on your position, though. For example, according to Payscale, Athletic Trainers make an average of $46,777 per year. Physical Therapists, meanwhile, make an average of $91,010. (By the way, this position is also experiencing extremely fast job growth.)

Sports medicine has a lot of potential jobs. So the best way to find salary information is to look up the job you want. Don’t forget to factor in other elements, like location. Your employer will also impact your salary. For example, a large, well-known sports team typically pays more than a high school. Of course, you can also expect a bigger salary as you gain more experience. In sports medicine, experienced professionals can make much more than those who have just started working.

In sports medicine, education can have a big impact on your salary. If you plan to get a master’s degree, keep that in mind as you research salary information. For example, an athletic trainer with a bachelor’s degree might make up to $51,297 by mid-career. An athletic trainer with a master’s degree can expect up to $51,684 by this point. The starting salary difference is even higher.

By combining experience with a master’s degree, you could see a big increase in your earnings. Again, though, it all depends on your position. Always keep your specific job in mind as you do your research.


Sports Medicine Certifications

Another way to increase your salary is to earn a certification. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) approves a few certifications.

  • Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist (PAPHS)
  • Certified Group Exercise Instructor (ACSM-GEI)
  • a Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM-CPT)
  • Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) 
  • a Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP)

When doing a school search and looking at school rankings for a sports medicine program you may want to find your own enrollment counselor for the online master’s programs.


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