Pathway options
The sports medicine major offers two degree options, or pathways. Select the pathway that matches your goals and needs.
- Pre-athletic training (Pre-AT): Take your first step toward becoming a certified athletic trainer, someone who specializes in athletic health care.
- Traditional: Branch out from athletic training. Explore other sports medicine and health care fields. Enter the workforce after you graduate or progress into a professional program.
Both pathways give you a bachelor's degree in sports medicine as well.
![Student working on patient's cast during athletic training class.](https://www.MissouriState.edu/SHS/PHSM/_Files/Pre-AT-124177297_1095790100854090_2370940682231732665_o.jpg)
![Students at physical therapy clinic.](https://www.MissouriState.edu/SHS/PHSM/_Files/sportsmed-trad-20604-2250.jpg)
Why major in sports medicine at Missouri State?
![Athletic training student doing demonstration with patient.](https://www.MissouriState.edu/SHS/PHSM/_Files/sportsmed-tout-21718-8313.jpg)
Get experience
Work with sports medicine clinics, athletes, physicians, and other health care providers while in school.
![Student using an instrument to measure a patient's knee.](https://www.MissouriState.edu/SHS/PHSM/_Files/sports-med-highlight-20918-9366.jpg)
Build your foundation
Gain the credentials a health care provider needs. Have basic science knowledge and a strong health care background.
![Student stretching another student's shoulder.](https://www.MissouriState.edu/SHS/PHSM/_Files/sports-med-highlight-20918-9427.jpg)
Start early on your master's degree
Pave the way for early admission into the Master of Athletic Training (MAT) program. Become a certified athletic trainer, sooner.
![Professor demonstrating how to use exercise bands.](https://www.MissouriState.edu/SHS/PHSM/_Files/sports-med-highlight-21339-4524.jpg)
Have the flexibility to branch out
Don't want to do athletic training? Take the traditional pathway and explore other fields. Meet the admission requirements for a professional degree in physical therapy, occupational therapy and more.
By the numbers
Join a career field where your services are in demand.
14%
#1
Take your education to the next level
Our master's degree programs will enhance your abilities and prepare you for greater career roles.