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Compare Sports Medicine Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Sports Medicine Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

A degree in sports medicine prepares students for careers dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of sports-related injuries. Graduates can pursue roles such as athletic trainer, exercise physiologist, and physical therapist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, exercise physiologists earn a median annual salary of $54,860, while physical therapists, who may need additional education, make $99,710 per year.

Typically, completing an online bachelor’s degree in sports medicine takes about four years of full-time study, requiring around 120 credit hours. The cost varies, with public institutions averaging roughly $9,000 per year and private institutions costing an average of $28,000 per year, based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

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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 online 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 18 Accredited Online Sports Medicine Degree Programs

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#1
Gainesville, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Florida

Intelligent Score: 99.05
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,477

Out-of-state: $25,694

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $10,770

Out-of-state: $10,770

Test scores

SAT: 1290-1460

ACT: 29-33

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
31%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
89%
Students enrolled
53,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$48k
Average Student Debt
$16k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $112

Non-Resident: $500

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120.0

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 855-994-2867

#2
Lawrence, KS | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Kansas

Intelligent Score: 97.53
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,092

Out-of-state: $26,960

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,989

Out-of-state: $9,989

Test scores

SAT: 1070-1320

ACT: 22-29

Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
91%
On-campus students
10%
Graduation Rate
63%
Students enrolled
27,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$485

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 913-897-8400

#3
Columbus, OH | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Ohio State University

Intelligent Score: 97.16
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,615

Out-of-state: $32,599

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,560

Out-of-state: $11,560

Test scores

SAT: 1210-1430

ACT: 26-32

Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
68%
On-campus students
6%
Graduation Rate
87%
Students enrolled
61,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$493

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 614-292-8860

#4
Columbia, MO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Missouri

Intelligent Score: 96.75
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,330

Out-of-state: $27,612

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,478

Out-of-state: $9,478

Test scores

SAT: 1110-1320

ACT: 23-29

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
82%
On-campus students
13%
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
31,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$43k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$617

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 573-882-2491

#5
River Forest, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

CSP Global

Intelligent Score: 96.57
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $32,660

Out-of-state: $32,660

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,090

Out-of-state: $9,090

Test scores

SAT: 990-1180

ACT: 19-25

Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
79%
On-campus students
13%
Graduation Rate
51%
Students enrolled
6,000
Student to faculty ratio
12:01
Average Salary
$39k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$420

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 855-641-2525

#6
Albany, NY | 4 years | Online | Private

Excelsior University

Intelligent Score: 95.74
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $26,790

Out-of-state: $26,790

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $17,550

Out-of-state: $17,550

Test scores

SAT: 1210

ACT: 27

Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
N/A
Graduation Rate
30%
Students enrolled
15,260
Student to faculty ratio
22-to-1
Average Salary
71,116
Average Student Debt
14,786

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$510

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 888-647-2388

#7
La Grande, OR | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Eastern Oregon University

Intelligent Score: 94.89
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $7,830

Out-of-state: $20,520

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $17,550

Out-of-state: $17,550

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
94%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
28%
Students enrolled
3,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$36k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$316

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 855-805-5399

#8
Riverside, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

California Baptist University

Intelligent Score: 92.52
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $33,930

Out-of-state: $33,930

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $13,410

Out-of-state: $13,410

Test scores

SAT: 960-1150

ACT: 18-25

Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
80%
On-campus students
17%
Graduation Rate
62%
Students enrolled
11,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$27k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$520

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

124

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 951-343-3927

#9
Manchester, NH | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Southern New Hampshire University

Intelligent Score: 91.32
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,600

Out-of-state: $9,600

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $18,810

Out-of-state: $18,810

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
94%
On-campus students
4%
Graduation Rate
37%
Students enrolled
134,000
Student to faculty ratio
21:01
Average Salary
$43k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$330

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 888-327-7648

#10
Lafayette, LA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Intelligent Score: 89.87
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $5,407

Out-of-state: $19,135

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $5,511

Out-of-state: $5,511

Test scores

SAT: 1000-1210

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
67%
On-campus students
46%
Graduation Rate
51%
Students enrolled
16,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$37k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$380

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 337-482-5555

#11
Tempe, AZ | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Arizona State University

Intelligent Score: 89.22
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,710

Out-of-state: $28,800

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,720

Out-of-state: $11,720

Test scores

SAT: 1100-1320

ACT: 21-28

Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
88%
On-campus students
15%
Graduation Rate
66%
Students enrolled
75,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$574

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 866-277-6589

#12
Highland Heights, KY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Northern Kentucky University

Intelligent Score: 89.18
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,912

Out-of-state: $19,872

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,034

Out-of-state: $11,034

Test scores

SAT: 960-1190

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
87%
On-campus students
6%
Graduation Rate
47%
Students enrolled
16,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$35k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$275

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 859-572-5220

#13
California, PA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Pennsylvania Western University

Intelligent Score: 88.58
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $28,700

Out-of-state: $33,322

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $31,723

Out-of-state: $31,723

Test scores

SAT: 950 - 1070

ACT: 20 - 26

Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
94%
On-campus students
82%
Graduation Rate
37%
Students enrolled
14,447
Student to faculty ratio
18-to-1
Average Salary
37,900
Average Student Debt
38,386

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $322

Non-Resident: $328

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120.0

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 724-938-4404

#14
Saint Louis, MO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Maryville University

Intelligent Score: 87.73
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $24,766

Out-of-state: $24,766

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $14,346

Out-of-state: $14,346

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
95%
On-campus students
17%
Graduation Rate
75%
Students enrolled
11,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$23k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$540

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

128

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 314-445-4864

#15
Madison, WI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Intelligent Score: 86.12
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,273

Out-of-state: $37,161

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $10,728

Out-of-state: $10,728

Test scores

SAT: 1260-1460

ACT: 27-32

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
57%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
45,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$50k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $297

Non-Resident: $717

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 262-472-1440

#16
Lawton, OK | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Cameron University

Intelligent Score: 83.11
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,740

Out-of-state: $14,160

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $3,564

Out-of-state: $3,564

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
N/A
On-campus students
20%
Graduation Rate
23%
Students enrolled
4,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$30k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $230

Non-Resident: $544

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

124.0

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 580-581-2289

#17
Daphne, AL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

United States Sports Academy

Intelligent Score: 82.99
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $38,484

Out-of-state: $38,484

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $20,520

Out-of-state: $20,520

Test scores

SAT: 1000 or higher

ACT: 20 or higher

Retention Rate
100%
Admission Rate
100%
On-campus students
N/A
Graduation Rate
4%
Students enrolled
240
Student to faculty ratio
4-to-1
Average Salary
55,257
Average Student Debt
N/A

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$525

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online, On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 251-626-3303

#18
Columbus, OH | 4 years | Online | Private

Franklin University

Intelligent Score: 82.31
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,552

Out-of-state: $9,552

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $16,080

Out-of-state: $16,080

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
9%
Admission Rate
N/A
On-campus students
N/A
Graduation Rate
42%
Students enrolled
6,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$43k
Average Student Debt
$23k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$398

DELIVERY FORMAT

Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 614-797-4700

How to Choose an Online Sports Medicine Degree Program

Choose your area of study

Identify your interests within sports medicine, such as athletic training, physical therapy or exercise science. Consider your strengths and passion for certain aspects of sports medicine. Research the various career opportunities and their requirements to understand what each field entails. Speak with professionals already working in the field to gain insights into day-to-day responsibilities and long-term career prospects. Evaluating your personal and professional goals will help you make an informed decision, ensuring that your chosen area of study aligns with your interests and future aspirations.

Research schools and programs

Identify accredited institutions that offer robust sports medicine programs. Accreditation by an organization such as the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) ensures the program meets industry standards and can significantly impact your career opportunities. Look into the curriculum to ensure it covers key areas like kinesiology, anatomy, and rehabilitation. Evaluate faculty qualifications, as experienced instructors enhance your learning experience. Check if the program offers hands-on opportunities, such as internships or virtual labs. Review alumni success stories and job placement rates. Lastly, consider program costs, available financial aid, and flexibility to accommodate your schedule.

Prepare for tests and applications

Research the specific requirements of each program, such as standardized tests (SAT or ACT, for example) and prerequisite courses. Allocate ample time to study for these tests, using practice exams and study guides to improve your scores. Gather necessary application materials, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Tailor your personal statement to highlight your passion for sports medicine, any relevant experience, and career aspirations. Meet application deadlines and ensure all documents are submitted accurately.

Select your program

Compare potential programs based on accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, and available resources. Ensure the program aligns with your career goals, whether you aim to become an athletic trainer, exercise physiologist, physical therapist, or another related profession. Consider program flexibility, especially if you must balance your studies with other commitments. A program with asynchronous courses may be a good choice if you have significant personal or professional obligations. Evaluate support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, as well as internship opportunities. Check alumni success and job placement rates to gauge the program’s effectiveness. Additionally, assess the cost and available financial aid options.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. Research scholarships specific to sports medicine or healthcare fields, which are offered by universities, private organizations, and professional associations. Consider state grants and tuition reimbursement programs if you’re already employed in a related field. Look into flexible payment plans offered by institutions, which can ease the financial burden. Make sure you are comparing the overall cost of programs, including tuition, fees, and materials.

What Can You Expect From an Online Sports Medicine Degree Program?

An online sports medicine degree program equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in various roles within the sports and health industry. Expect to learn foundational topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and biomechanics. Courses may also cover injury prevention, treatment strategies, rehabilitation techniques, and nutrition. Many programs include modules on exercise physiology, sports psychology, and strength and conditioning.

Typically, it takes about four years of full-time study to complete a bachelor’s degree in sports medicine, requiring around 120 credit hours. Part-time options are available, extending the program duration. Some online programs might necessitate in-person components, such as lab sessions, clinical internships, or residencies.

Students should be prepared for rigorous coursework, involving both theoretical and practical aspects of sports medicine. Participation in online discussions, group projects, and virtual simulations is often required. Most programs offer support services such as academic advising, career counseling, and access to online libraries.

Potential courses you’ll take in an online sports medicine degree program

  • Anatomy and Physiology. Provides a comprehensive understanding of the human body’s structure and function. Students learn about the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems — this knowledge is essential for diagnosing and treating sports-related injuries.
  • Kinesiology. Focuses on the mechanics of body movement. Students study how muscles, bones, and joints work together to produce motion, which is critical for developing effective rehabilitation and training programs.
  • Sports Injury Prevention and Management. Covers the principles of preventing, assessing and managing sports injuries. Students learn techniques for injury evaluation, emergency care, and rehabilitation strategies to ensure athletes’ safety and recovery.
  • Exercise Physiology. Explores how physical activity affects the body’s systems, including the study of metabolic responses, cardiovascular adaptations, and muscle physiology, providing a foundation for developing fitness and conditioning programs.
  • Nutrition for Sports and Exercise. Examines the role of nutrition in athletic performance and recovery. Students learn about dietary requirements, supplementation, and hydration strategies tailored to enhance physical performance and overall health.

Online Sports Medicine Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to an online sports medicine degree program?

Start by completing the application form on the institution’s website. Gather required documents, including official transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement detailing your interest in sports medicine. Some programs may also require a resume and proof of relevant experience. It’s crucial to speak with an admissions counselor to ensure you meet all requirements and to get guidance on the application process. They can provide valuable insights and help you present a strong application, increasing your chances of acceptance.

How much does an online sports medicine degree cost?

The cost of an online degree varies depending on the institution and program format. On average, tuition for online bachelor’s programs in sports medicine can range from approximately $9,000 to $38,000 per year. Generally, public institutions are more inexpensive than private colleges and universities, but financial aid can help close the gap in cost. Additional costs may include fees for technology, online resources, and course materials. While online programs may offer flexibility and potential savings on commuting and housing expenses, they may also require students to purchase specific software or participate in virtual labs.

How long does it take to earn an online sports medicine degree?

Your degree typically takes around four years of full-time study to complete, equivalent to about 120 credit hours. Part-time enrollment options are available, which can extend the program duration based on the number of credits taken per semester. Online programs often offer flexibility in scheduling, allowing students to balance coursework with other commitments, which may affect the overall completion time. In contrast, on-campus programs may have more structured schedules and require in-person attendance for labs or clinical experiences, potentially influencing the timeline. The total number of required credits varies by program and can impact the length of time needed to graduate, with some accelerated options available depending on prior coursework or transfer credits.