In the field of sports medicine, a master’s degree program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote the health and well-being of athletes. Graduates are prepared for roles such as athletic trainer, sports medicine physician, physical therapist, or exercise physiologist. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, athletic trainers earn an average salary of $57,930 per year. Sports medicine physicians, who may need further education beyond their master’s degree, earn significantly higher, averaging $239,200 per year.
The program typically spans two to three years, depending on factors such as full-time or part-time enrollment and prior coursework. Cost varies based on several characteristics, but the National Center for Education Statistics reports an average expense of $12,000 to $30,000 for master’s degree programs. This is based on factors such as type of institution (public or private), residency status, and program features.
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- Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
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- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best Sports Medicine degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Sports Medicine Degree Programs
intelligent score 99.46
Award
Rankings
#1 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Salisbury, MD
Graduation Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $436
Non-Residents: $790
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
410-543-6000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 99.45
Award
Rankings
#2 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Louisville, KY
Graduation Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: 75%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $791
Non-Residents: $1,606
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
502-852-6495
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 97.62
Award
Rankings
#3 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
New Haven, CT
Graduation Rate: 54%
Admission Rate: 83%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-34
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $484
Non-Residents: $1,247
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
203-392-9670
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-34
intelligent score 97.38
Award
Rankings
#4 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Charlotte, NC
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 79%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
58
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $248
Non-Residents: $1,058
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
704-687-5503
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
58
intelligent score 96.57
Award
Rankings
#5 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Boone, NC
Graduation Rate: 74%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $291
Non-Residents: $1,217
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
828-262-3140
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 96.44
Award
Rankings
#6 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Ashland, OH
Graduation Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: 70%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$690
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
419-289-5738
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 95.83
Award
Rankings
#7 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Orlando, FL
Graduation Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 36%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$288
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
407-823-2595
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
intelligent score 95.17
Award
Rankings
#8 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Memphis, TN
Graduation Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: 95%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $532
Non-Residents: $775
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
9001-678-3685
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 92.72
Award
Rankings
#9 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Bloomsburg, PA
Graduation Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 90%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $516
Non-Residents: $774
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
570-389-4015
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 92.59
Award
Rankings
#10 Sports Management Degree Guide
School Information
Jacksonville, FL
Graduation Rate: 52%
Admission Rate: 78%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-35
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$780
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
904-256-7000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-35
intelligent score 92.21
Award
Rankings
School Information
Northampton, MA
Graduation Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 30%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
53
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,910
accreditation
National Committee for the Accreditation of Coaching Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
413-585-2500
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
53
intelligent score 90.89
Award
Rankings
School Information
Statesboro, GA
Graduation Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: 91%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $277
Non-Residents: $1,105
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
912-478-4636
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 89.15
Award
Rankings
School Information
Russellville, AR
Graduation Rate: 47%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$315
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
479-968-0343
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 89.15
Award
Rankings
School Information
Orono, ME
Graduation Rate: 58%
Admission Rate: 96%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $557
Non-Residents: $1,696
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
207-581-24441
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-33
intelligent score 89.05
Award
Rankings
School Information
Muncie, IN
Graduation Rate: 64%
Admission Rate: 68%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $524
Non-Residents: $1,152
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-285-4723
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
intelligent score 88.7
Award
Rankings
School Information
East Stroudsburg, PA
Graduation Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: 93%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
35
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $559
Non-Residents: $817
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
570-422-3542
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
35
intelligent score 88.11
Award
Rankings
School Information
Auburn, AL
Graduation Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 71%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $594
Non-Residents: $1,782
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
334-844-4700
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 87.84
Award
Rankings
School Information
Gainesville, FL
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 30%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $449
Non-Residents: $690
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
352-392-8565
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 87.50
Award
Rankings
School Information
Carbondale, IL
Graduation Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: 95%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$470
accreditation
Council on Education for Public Health
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
618-536-7791
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 87.12
Award
Rankings
School Information
Ann Arbor, MI
Graduation Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 20%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
56
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,877
Non-Residents: $3,096
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
734-764-8129
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
56
intelligent score 86.22
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fairfax, VA
Graduation Rate: 74%
Admission Rate: 91%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $727
Non-Residents: $927
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
703-993-2000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 85.95
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chapel Hill, NC
Graduation Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 20%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $586
Non-Residents: $1,602
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-962-7772
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 85.43
Award
Rankings
School Information
Riverside, CA
Graduation Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 64%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33-34
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$695
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
951-343-4249
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33-34
intelligent score 85.12
Award
Rankings
School Information
Madison, WI
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
58
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $539
Non-Residents: $1,128
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
608-262-2433
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
58
intelligent score 84.73
Award
Rankings
School Information
Hempstead, NY
Graduation Rate: 63%
Admission Rate: 68%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31-34
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,630
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
516-463-5122
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31-34
intelligent score 84.37
Award
Rankings
School Information
Bloomington, IN
Graduation Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
52
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $616
Non-Residents: $1,746
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
812-855-0661
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
52
intelligent score 83.67
Award
Rankings
School Information
Springfield, MA
Graduation Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 77%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,212
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
413-748-3000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 82.6
Award
Rankings
School Information
Austin, TX
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 29%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $515
Non-Resident: $1,002
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
512-471-3434
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 81.68
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fairfield, CT
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 66%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
52
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$416
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
203-365-7619
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
52
intelligent score 80.74
Award
Rankings
School Information
Athens, GA
Graduation Rate: 86%
Admission Rate: 40%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
79
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $370
Non-Resident: $1,050
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
706-542-1739
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
79
intelligent score 80.39
Award
Rankings
School Information
Bridgewater, MA
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
57
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$502
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
508-531-1300
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
57
intelligent score 80.05
Award
Rankings
School Information
Iowa City, IA
Graduation Rate: 71%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$615
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
319-335-1524
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
intelligent score 78.57
Award
Rankings
School Information
Salt Lake City, UT
Graduation Rate: 71%
Admission Rate: 95%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $311
Non-Resident: $1,095
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
801-581-7642
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 78.01
Award
Rankings
School Information
Columbia, SC
Graduation Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 62%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
67
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $572
Non-Resident: $1,240
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
803-777-4243
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
67
intelligent score 77.45
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fayetteville, AR
Graduation Rate: 65%
Admission Rate: 83%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $438
Non-Resident: $1,190
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
479-575-5869
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 76.67
Award
Rankings
School Information
Minneapolis, MN
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 73%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,593
Non-Resident: $2,465
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
612-625-5300
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 76.26
Award
Rankings
School Information
Normal, IL
Graduation Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: 92%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $423
Non-Resident: $878
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
309-438-2583
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-36
intelligent score 76.10
Award
Rankings
School Information
Storrs, CT
Graduation Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 56%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
53
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $1,084
Non-Resident: $2,302
accreditation
Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
860-934-8839
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
53
intelligent score 75.2
Award
Rankings
School Information
Mississippi State, MS
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 76%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$537
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
662-325-2963
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Discover More Options
How to Choose a Master’s in Sports Medicine Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Begin by exploring specializations such as athletic training, physical therapy, sports medicine, or exercise physiology. Consider factors like job market demand, salary prospects, and your passion for specific aspects of sports medicine. Research each specialization’s curriculum, faculty experience and available resources to ensure they match your career hopes. It is also helpful to reflect on your strengths, experiences, and long-term goals to guide your decision.
Research schools and programs
Begin by creating a list of accredited institutions offering the program. Avoid programs that do not have regional or national accreditations. Evaluate factors such as program reputation, faculty expertise, and available resources like laboratories or clinical facilities. Explore each school’s website to gather information on curriculum details, internship opportunities and alumni outcomes. Utilize online forums, educational publications, and alumni networks to gain insights into student perceptions of the program. Speak to admissions staff or program coordinators to get answers to your questions.
Prepare for tests and applications
Familiarize yourself with program-specific admission requirements, including standardized tests like the GRE. Dedicate time to study for these exams using study guides, practice tests, and online resources. If you are unsure of your test-taking abilities, consider hiring a tutor to work with you. Gather any necessary documents for the application such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, or a compelling personal statement highlighting your passion for the field. Note application deadlines and submit all materials as early as possible. Consider seeking feedback on your application materials from mentors or advisors to ensure they effectively showcase your qualifications.
Select your program
Once you have considered factors such as program accreditation, specialization options, and faculty expertise in sports medicine, evaluate all your likely programs. Look at each program’s curriculum and resources like laboratories or clinical facilities. Reflect on your career goals and preferred area of specialization, such as athletic training or physical therapy. If you wish to become a physician, ensure that your program has all the pre-med coursework that a doctoral program would require. Additionally, consider logistical factors like program location, format (online or on-campus), and cost.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal student loans, grants, and work-study programs. Research scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships offered by the school or by external organizations, such as professional sports medicine groups. Explore tuition reimbursement programs through employers or government agencies. Consider part-time work or internships in the field to gain experience and help pay for costs. Create a budget to manage expenses and prioritize financial aid options that minimize student debt.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Sports Medicine Degree Program?
A master’s degree program in sports medicine offers students a comprehensive education in the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries. Students can expect to learn about anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, injury assessment and management, therapeutic modalities, and rehabilitation techniques. The program typically takes two to three years to complete, depending on factors such as full-time or part-time enrollment and prior coursework.
Students should expect to complete hands-on clinical experiences, internships or practicum placements to gain practical skills and real-world experience in sports medicine settings. Some programs may require students to participate in in-person labs, clinical rotations, or residencies to apply their learning in a supervised clinical environment. Prospective students should review program requirements carefully to ensure they meet all prerequisites and experiential learning requirements for admission to their chosen program.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in sports medicine program
- Anatomy and Biomechanics in Sports Medicine. Covers the structure and function of the human body, with a focus on anatomical landmarks and biomechanical principles relevant to sports performance and injury prevention. Students learn about the musculoskeletal system, joint mechanics, and movement analysis to understand the mechanisms of injury and develop effective treatment and rehabilitation plans.
- Exercise Physiology. Explores the physiological responses to exercise and physical activity, including cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolic adaptations. Students learn about energy systems, training principles, and physiological testing techniques to optimize athletic performance and prescribe exercise interventions for individuals with various health and fitness goals.
- Injury Assessment and Management. Focuses on the evaluation and treatment of sports-related injuries, including acute trauma and overuse injuries. Students learn clinical assessment skills and treatment modalities such as therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and taping and bracing techniques.
- Therapeutic Modalities in Sports Medicine. Examines the use of therapeutic modalities such as heat, cold, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and cryotherapy in the treatment of sports injuries and rehabilitation. Students learn about the physiological effects, indications, and contraindications of each modality and how to safely and effectively integrate them into clinical practice.
- Rehabilitation Techniques in Sports Medicine. Covers the principles and practices of rehabilitation for sports-related injuries, including exercise prescription, manual therapy techniques, neuromuscular re-education and functional rehabilitation exercises. Students learn about rehabilitation protocols for common musculoskeletal injuries and how to develop comprehensive rehabilitation programs to restore function and return athletes to play safely.
Master’s in Sports Medicine Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in sports medicine degree program?
Begin by reviewing specific admission requirements. Typically, applicants need to submit an online application, official transcripts from previous academic institutions, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining their interest in the field. Some programs may also require GRE scores or proof of relevant work experience. Discuss program-specific requirements with an admissions counselor before applying to ensure all criteria are met. Admissions counselors are a valuable resource: they can provide important guidance and support throughout the application process, helping applicants present their qualifications effectively and increase their chances of admission.
How much does a master's in sports medicine degree cost?
The cost of a master’s in sports medicine degree varies based on factors such as institution, program format, and location. Generally, public and land grant institutions are more affordable than private colleges and universities, although scholarships and other financial aid can make a difference. On average, tuition ranges from $12,000 to $30,000, as reported by the National Center for Education Statistics. Students should also budget for additional expenses such as textbooks, lab fees, and equipment. Online programs may offer flexibility but can have similar tuition costs along with potential technology or online learning platform fees.
How long does it take to earn a master's in sports medicine degree?
Typically, full-time students can complete a master’s program in two to three years, while part-time students may take longer. Online programs may offer flexibility, especially those with asynchronous courses, but can have similar completion times as on-campus programs. However, some online programs may offer accelerated options. The total number of required credits also impacts program length. Prospective students should consider their schedule, career goals, and program requirements when choosing between full-time or part-time enrollment.