Careers in Sports: Which Jobs Can You Pursue With a Sports Science Degree?

Posted on 3rd February 2022

Whether they’re sprinting across a racetrack or scoring a commendable goal, many people idolise sports stars. Considering their esteemed position within popular culture and the exuberant wages that come with it, it’s no wonder so many children consider athletes their role models.

But what about the sports careers that don’t feature in the news?

This article will explore some of the behind-the-scenes jobs you can aim for with a sports science degree, from a sports physician to a nutritionist and a physiotherapist. We will explore the daily responsibilities and average wages of these roles so that you can find your dream career.

Sports physician

One of the most exciting careers in sports which you can pursue with a sports science degree is a sports physician. This is a doctor who specialises in sports and exercise medicine (SEM). As well as working with the general public in both the private and public sector, sports physicians are trained to treat athletes for soft-tissue injuries, fractures, and much more.

If you’re interested in becoming a sports physician, completing a degree in sports science could be the first step in your journey. After your undergraduate degree, you can continue your education and study an MSc in Sports and Exercise Medicine.

The journey to get this job will be challenging, but it will be worth it! As well as enjoying your career as a sports physician, you will be able to earn up to £200,000 per year.

Nutritionist

In comparison to sports physicians, nutritionists explore the benefits of food in relation to physical and mental well-being. Nutritionists work alongside nurses and dietitians to establish the best food and healthcare plans in a number of settings, from the private sports teams to private practices and the NHS.

A sports nutritionist works alongside a sports team to provide expert advice on diet and exercise. As sports stars rely on their physical health to exceed in their chosen area of expertise, this is an invaluable position within the sporting world.

There are many ways you can become a nutritionist, and a sports science degree will fortify your skills and knowledge to excel as a professional nutritionist. If you have an interest in food and how this affects human (or animal) anatomy, this career could be right for you.

The average wage of a qualified nutritionist varies depending on the sector they work in, the location they operate in, and the experience a professional has. After graduating and gaining enough experience, you could earn up to £55,000. Not bad for a job you know you’ll enjoy!

Physiotherapist

You could also pursue a career as a physiotherapist. Working with patients to help them retain or regain their mobility, daily tasks vary from sports therapy, sports massage, podiatry, and acupuncture. Similar to sports physicians and nutritionists, this is an integral role within the sporting industry.

An undergraduate degree in sports science will provide you with the knowledge to pursue a career in physiotherapy. To complete your training as a sports physiotherapist, you will continue with education to a postgraduate level and becomes a Master in Physiology.

If you qualify as a physiotherapist, you earn an average of £37, 512 per year. As well as touring the country – or the world – with your sports team, you’ll be given many opportunities to thrive in a sporting environment.

The benefits of a sports science degree transcend the boundaries explored in this article. As well as learning the skills to exceed in these fields, you could go on to work as a choreographer, personal trainer, or clinical scientist. Whether you’re in to help patients with their health or work in a profession you enjoy, careers within sports are full of excitement and will keep you on your toes every day.