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SPORTS MEDICINE
CAREER
ABSTRACT
The Sports Medicine Option in the Exercise and Sport Science Concentration is designed to prepare students to enter disciplines such as physical therapy, exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, or other advanced programs in physical rehabilitation. Most positions in these areas of specialization require advanced degrees. Graduate study is very competitive; therefore, students are encouraged to maintain a grade point average of at least 3.20 and obtain related volunteer experience prior to graduation.
QUESTIONS
STUDENTS OFTEN ASK
What can I do with a degree in Sports Medicine?
Students in this program generally seek clinically-based positions in areas of physical rehabilitation, such as physical therapy, or cardiac rehabilitation. Some students use the degree as a springboard to advanced study in the exercise sciences (graduate degrees) or in specified career areas such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or chiropractic schools. While many of these positions require an advanced degree or study at other related schools, many students obtain entry-level positions in the clinical setting prior to obtaining the advanced degree. Other students work in related health agencies, hospital, health and fitness facilities, rehabilitation centers, etc.
What academic skills and strengths should I possess
to be successful in sports medicine?
Students should possess a strong science background along with experience in math and statistics. The Sports Medicine curriculum requires one year of biology, chemistry, and physics, plus other related courses such as psychology, nutrition, and the exercise sciences. Students should also enjoy working with individuals and possess strong interpersonal skills.
What are the academic requirements, such as grade point average or minimums to take fieldwork?
The minimum grade point average required to enter fieldwork (internship) is a 2.1 overall and 2.50 in the major. Students intending to seek advanced study should maintain a GPA above 3.2 and seek fieldwork in their specialized area of study.What courses may enhance my career opportunities in sports medicine?
Prerequisites
for many advanced programs in physical rehabilitation include coursework in
biology, chemistry, physics, math, technology, psychology, and english. Students
are encouraged to check with graduate schools for specific requirements. Minors
in areas such as health, psychology, nutrition, or biology are also beneficial.
Many
ESHE classes in the exercise and rehabilitative sciences particularly
preparation for advanced programs.
Students are also strongly encouraged to seek additional certificates, such as CPR, ACSM Exercise Specialist, or NSCA Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Check with your advisor for certification opportunities.