Athletic Training vs. Exercise & Sport Science: Which Path Should You Choose?
Two faculty experts in athletic training and exercise & sport science share the differences between the two fields and why each are worth pursuing.
So, you’re interested in making a difference with an advanced degree in human movement science … this is exciting news! Soon, you’ll be working to effect positive change in people’s lives. You might be wondering which path is right for you, and what the particular differences are between athletic training and exercise & sport science.
Two faculty experts in Sacred Heart University’s College of Health Professions—Program Director of Athletic Training Stephanie Clines, and Associate Professor of Exercise & Sport Science Christopher Taber—took the time to share what you need to know in their respective areas as you consider your next step.
What’s the difference between athletic training and exercise & sport science?
Athletic trainers (ATs) are highly skilled allied health care professionals who specialize in the assessment, prevention and rehabilitation of urgent and non-urgent injuries and medical conditions. They can diagnose, treat and provide rehabilitation for the physically active population, said Clines.
Exercise & sport science is a clinical field in which professionals are trying to understand how the body moves, functions and adapts in active individuals, Taber said. Strength coaches and sport scientists help to develop the physical, technical and mental aspects of athletes through training and performance monitoring. Students interested in blending scientific method with the training of athletes should look into exercise & sport science.
Are careers in athletic training and exercise & sport science in demand?
Athletic training is one of the fastest-growing health-care professions in the U.S. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the athletic training field is expected to grow 14% in the next 10 years. The demand for ATs is rising because of a greater recognition of the effects of sport and activity-related injuries, as well as the need for better injury prevention strategies. Additionally, individuals remain more active throughout the lifespan, requiring expertise and care from health care providers such as athletic trainers.
Exercise & sport science is expected to grow 10% in the next 10 years. The sports industry in general has been on the rise, so the demand for professionals in the industry is increasing. As athletics also grows at SHU with the opening of the Martire Family Arena and the renovations of the William Pitt Athletic & Convocation Center, exercise & sport science students will have the opportunity to work in these updated facilities with the University’s athletes to improve their athletic performance.
What areas of study are available?
Athletic trainers are educated and trained in five major practice domains:
- Risk reduction, wellness and health literacy
- Assessment, evaluation and diagnosis
- Critical incident management
- Therapeutic management
- Health administration and professional responsibility
Strength coaches and sports scientists may specialize in the following areas:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biomechanics
- Bioenergetics
- Sport technology
- Athlete testing and monitoring
- Data collection, management and analysis
- Coaching methods
What types of careers can I pursue with a degree in athletic training or exercise & sport science?
Graduates with an MS in athletic training are employed in the following settings:
- Athletics including public and private secondary schools, colleges/universities, professional and Olympic sports, youth leagues and municipal and independently owned youth sports facilities
- Physician practices, hospitals, emergency rooms, urgent and ambulatory care centers
- Clinics specializing in sports medicine, cardiac rehab, medical fitness, wellness and physical therapy
- Industrial and occupational settings, such as manufacturing, distribution and offices
- Branches of the military academies, police and fire departments and municipal safety departments
- Performing arts including professional and collegiate dance, music, theater and circus art
Graduates with an MS in exercise & sport science are eligible to pursue their doctoral studies, allowing them to teach and/or do research, Taber said. Graduates can also be employed in the following areas:
- Strength and conditioning coaching 
- Data science
- Sport science
- Private strength coaching
- High school strength coaching
- Data analysis
- Sport coaching
Interested in pursuing an MS in athletic training or exercise & sport science?
Sacred Heart University offers unique, hands-on programs in athletic training and exercise & sport science that provide students with real-world training and diverse clinical education experiences.
For more information about these programs, schedule a meeting with Lea DiStasio, or reach out at distasiol2@sacredheart.edu.
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