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.
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 or MAT. 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.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Sports Medicine Degree Programs
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
The research on our list covers graduate programs in sports medicine that prepare students for careers in kinesiology, athletic training, and exercise science. Degrees offered include Master of Sports Science, Master of Science in kinesiology, and Master of Arts in sports coaching. All of these graduate programs are delivered online.
Accreditation confirms that master’s programs in sports medicine are held to a high academic standard. All of the schools on this list are regionally accredited, and many of these options also have programmatic accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
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.