An online degree program in sports medicine
gives participants the skills needed to enter the field as an athletic
trainer. Graduates of online programs earn a Master of Sports Science
(MSS) degree.
Overview of an Online Master's Degree Program in Sports Medicine
These MSS programs are offered with concentrations in sports medicine
or human movement, also known as kinesiology. Some schools offer a
dual-major option, allowing students to select an additional
concentration in fitness and health, sports coaching,
sports management
or general sports studies. Common prerequisites include a bachelor's
degree or higher and experience in sports or another athletics-related
profession.
Similar to a traditional master's degree program, students can expect
33-42 semester hours of online coursework. Some schools do require an
on-campus residency at the end of the program.
Students of these programs need access to a personal computer and
Internet browser to complete courses and assignments. Access to e-mail
and office software programs are also common requirements. Some schools
have specific learning software they use to deliver courses.
List of Common Online Courses
Sports medicine degree program classes cover areas related to health
and wellness, including nutrition, exercise, muscle development, mental
health and all other physical aspects of the concentration. Some courses
are common to all master's degree-level educational sports medicine
degree programs, while other courses are more unique to the schools
offering them.
Sports Nutrition Course
General nutritional recommendations for athletes and the effects of
nutrition on the body are the focuses of this class. Other areas covered
are aerobic and anaerobic athletic performance, lean mass gain, body
fat loss and body composition.
Assessment and Measurement of Sports Medicine Course
This course covers fitness and performance testing along with the
techniques used to interpret the results. Participants also learn how to
evaluate sports-related injuries and illnesses. Emphasis is placed on
developing methodical evaluation and sound systematic techniques in
assessment, management and rehabilitation.
Sports Psychology Course
The focus of this course is on the theory and application of
psychological skills related to peak performance in athletes. Also,
students explore the psychological areas of motivational strategies in
rehabilitating injured athletes and overall athletic personal growth.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the salary of
athletic trainers depends on experience and job responsibility. In May
of 2009, the median annual wage for athletic trainers was $44,020.
Employment in the field was expected to grow very quickly, at a rate of
37% between 2008 and 2018 (
www.bls.gov).
A bachelor's degree is required for entry in the field of athletic
training, and the majority of positions require a master's degree. In
addition, certification from the Board of Certification (BOC) is
available to those who hold bachelor's or master's degrees and pass a
rigorous examination (
www.bocatc.org). Ph.D. programs are also available in sports medicine for continuing education in the field.
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