Company Q&A
What Can I Do With a Degree in Sports & Health Sciences? A Q&A by Amy Ashmore, Ph.D. Faculty Member, American Public University Amy Ashmore, Ph.D., has been published in the areas of kinesiology, biomechanics, stretching, and strength training. Her publications have appeared in IDEA Health & Fitness Journal, ACE FitnessMatters, ICAA Journal of Active Aging, and American Fitness. She authored Biomechanics of Assisted Stretching, a continuing education course offered exclusively through American Council on Exercise (ACE). Presentations at the IDEA World Fitness Convention include Biomechanics of Assisted Stretching, Torque and Training Special Populations, and Weight Training Progression: The Moment Arm. Currently, she is an Associate Professor in Sports & Health Sciences and an author.
A
s a sports and health sciences faculty member and lifelong industry professional, one of the most common questions I am asked by my students is, “What can I do with a degree in sports and health sciences?” While there are no guarantees a degree can lead to a job, here are four general job categories in which an undergraduate or graduate degree in sports and health sciences is often a condition for employment. The first category of general job classifications may require additional certification. These roles are popular among APU students, and in fact, many are already working in these jobs:
• Group Exercise Instructor
• Fitness Director
• Personal Fitness Trainer (staff)
• Exercise Physiologist
The second category represents more advanced specialization in the field:
• Athletic Trainer
• Biomechanist
• Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist
• Dietitian/Sports Nutritionist
• Medical Physician
• Researcher/Professor
TR AINING-CONDITIONING.COM
The third category is non-traditional roles with small to large equipment companies like Cybex and Nautilus or apparel companies like Nike and New Balance:
• Product Development
• Research
• Sales
• Marketing
• Customer Service
The fourth category is self-employment, which often consists of individuals blazing their own paths:
• Fitness or Health Sciences Writer
• Private Personal Fitness Trainer
• Fitness Facility Owner/Entrepreneur
As you can see above, the sports and health sciences field spans an array of exciting career paths. If you’re conducting a job search, it’s always important that you demonstrate your experience and education, but also that you’re highly disciplined and passionate about a career. To learn more about APU’s online degree programs, visit StudyatAPU.com/tc American Public University 877-777-9081 StudyatAPU.com/tc
T&C MAY/JUNE 2012
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