6 answers
Mila
Student
Mount Pleasant, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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What major do I take to become a sports medicine physician?
I am a Sophomore in high school and I’ve shown interest in sports medicine. I have been looking at colleges and I don’t know what major to pick. I have been told to not worry about it, but I just need to know. I need to know if the college is right for me or not.
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6 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
The career path for a sports medicine physician is long, requiring at least 12 years of education following completion of high school. The steps and requirements to a career in sports medicine include:
1️⃣ EARN A BACHELOR'S DEGREE: The first stage of becoming a sports medicine doctor is to complete a four-year undergraduate college degree program. Although medical schools do not have degree requirements for certain majors, most students major in chemistry, biology, or pre-medicine. Students commonly also choose to take in-depth courses in chemistry, biology, math, literature and other subjects as part of a pre-medical education. During this time, pre-medical students also prepare and study to take the MCAT (Medical College Achievement Test).
2️⃣ COMPLETE MEDICAL SCHOOL: The next step for aspiring sports medicine doctors is attending and completing medical school. Graduating from medical school awards either a doctorate in medicine, such as a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O. ) degree. In medical school, students take classes on the anatomy and physiology of the human body, working in patient care, pharmacology, and medical ethics during the first two years. The last two years are spent in clinical rotations in hospital settings, where students gain experience working in patient care and perfecting communication, as well as medical record keeping, and teamwork with other doctors. Following these four years, one will graduate with their medicine degree and begin their career as a medical doctor.
3️⃣ OBTAIN A MEDICAL LICENSE: Following graduation from medical school, aspiring sports medicine physicians will apply for a temporary medical license. States often mandate that doctors have a medical license to practice lawfully. Upon graduation from residency and fellowship, physicians will apply for a full medical license to practice sports medicine
4️⃣ COMPLETE A RESIDENCY: Newly graduated doctors must complete additional hands on training following medical school, termed a residency. This requirement lasts for three to four years on average. There are a number of different residencies that an aspiring sports medicine physician can complete. These include family medicine, emergency medicine, physical rehabilitation (PM&R), pediatrics, orthopedic surgery, and internal medicine. Completing one of these residencies will provide physicians with a solid foundation in medicine prior to learning sports medicine.
5️⃣ ENROLL IN A FELLOWSHIP: Enroll in a Fellowship: Physicians interested in working in sports medicine will finish a one- to two-year fellowship in sports medicine after graduating from their residencies. During the sports medicine fellowship, they learn more about sports injuries while working as team doctors for groups such as a high school or college sports team. They will learn to treat sprains, strains, broken bones, and more. These one to two years will provide all the training required to become a fully trained sports medicine physician.
1️⃣ EARN A BACHELOR'S DEGREE: The first stage of becoming a sports medicine doctor is to complete a four-year undergraduate college degree program. Although medical schools do not have degree requirements for certain majors, most students major in chemistry, biology, or pre-medicine. Students commonly also choose to take in-depth courses in chemistry, biology, math, literature and other subjects as part of a pre-medical education. During this time, pre-medical students also prepare and study to take the MCAT (Medical College Achievement Test).
2️⃣ COMPLETE MEDICAL SCHOOL: The next step for aspiring sports medicine doctors is attending and completing medical school. Graduating from medical school awards either a doctorate in medicine, such as a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O. ) degree. In medical school, students take classes on the anatomy and physiology of the human body, working in patient care, pharmacology, and medical ethics during the first two years. The last two years are spent in clinical rotations in hospital settings, where students gain experience working in patient care and perfecting communication, as well as medical record keeping, and teamwork with other doctors. Following these four years, one will graduate with their medicine degree and begin their career as a medical doctor.
3️⃣ OBTAIN A MEDICAL LICENSE: Following graduation from medical school, aspiring sports medicine physicians will apply for a temporary medical license. States often mandate that doctors have a medical license to practice lawfully. Upon graduation from residency and fellowship, physicians will apply for a full medical license to practice sports medicine
4️⃣ COMPLETE A RESIDENCY: Newly graduated doctors must complete additional hands on training following medical school, termed a residency. This requirement lasts for three to four years on average. There are a number of different residencies that an aspiring sports medicine physician can complete. These include family medicine, emergency medicine, physical rehabilitation (PM&R), pediatrics, orthopedic surgery, and internal medicine. Completing one of these residencies will provide physicians with a solid foundation in medicine prior to learning sports medicine.
5️⃣ ENROLL IN A FELLOWSHIP: Enroll in a Fellowship: Physicians interested in working in sports medicine will finish a one- to two-year fellowship in sports medicine after graduating from their residencies. During the sports medicine fellowship, they learn more about sports injuries while working as team doctors for groups such as a high school or college sports team. They will learn to treat sprains, strains, broken bones, and more. These one to two years will provide all the training required to become a fully trained sports medicine physician.
Thank you for your response! Do you know which is best to take to get me ready through medical school?
Mila
Mila the best pre-med major would be biological sciences, which encompasses fields like biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and neuroscience, as it closely aligns with the coursework required for medical school.
Doc Frick
Thank you for your help!
Mila
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1088
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Mila,
It's wonderful that you have found a career that you feel passionate about. The education to be a Sports Medicine Physician is a long but fascinating and rewarding one.
In order to become a Sports Medicine Physician, you first need to earn a bachelors degree (4 years). Your undergraduate studies can be in anything. Many students choose Biology, Chemistry or Biochemistry. Psychology or in your case exercise science would also be good options.
Next you need to get into Medical School and earn your MD or DO degree (4 years). There are some courses that are pre-requisites for admission. You also need to pass the MCAT. I left some links to requirements at Harvard Medical School as an example. You need to look up similar information for schools you would consider. During medical school you'll learn theory and pass through several departments for practical training.
After earning your MD or DO, you'll do a residency where you'll focus on the practical skills of being a doctor and specialize. Suitable options would be Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR), a 3-year residency. Other options would by orthopedic surgery (5 years), pediatrics (3 years), internal medicine (3 years) or emergency medicine (3-4 years). You find the length of residencies here:
https://residency.wustl.edu/residencies/length-of-residencies/
After your residency, you can do a fellowship to further specialize in sports medicine (1 year). Here is a list of options for a fellowship in sports medicine.
https://www.amssm.org/FellowshipsPositions.html
https://www.sportsmed.org/education/sports-medicine-fellowships/fellowship-listing
Also check out the information from professional societies:
https://www.amssm.org/Residents-Students.html
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-sports-medicine-doctor
https://www.umhs-sk.org/blog/how-to-become-a-sports-medicine-physician
https://meded.hms.harvard.edu/about-admissions
https://meded.hms.harvard.edu/admissions-eligibility-requirements
https://meded.hms.harvard.edu/admissions-prerequisite-courses
It's wonderful that you have found a career that you feel passionate about. The education to be a Sports Medicine Physician is a long but fascinating and rewarding one.
In order to become a Sports Medicine Physician, you first need to earn a bachelors degree (4 years). Your undergraduate studies can be in anything. Many students choose Biology, Chemistry or Biochemistry. Psychology or in your case exercise science would also be good options.
Next you need to get into Medical School and earn your MD or DO degree (4 years). There are some courses that are pre-requisites for admission. You also need to pass the MCAT. I left some links to requirements at Harvard Medical School as an example. You need to look up similar information for schools you would consider. During medical school you'll learn theory and pass through several departments for practical training.
After earning your MD or DO, you'll do a residency where you'll focus on the practical skills of being a doctor and specialize. Suitable options would be Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR), a 3-year residency. Other options would by orthopedic surgery (5 years), pediatrics (3 years), internal medicine (3 years) or emergency medicine (3-4 years). You find the length of residencies here:
https://residency.wustl.edu/residencies/length-of-residencies/
After your residency, you can do a fellowship to further specialize in sports medicine (1 year). Here is a list of options for a fellowship in sports medicine.
https://www.amssm.org/FellowshipsPositions.html
https://www.sportsmed.org/education/sports-medicine-fellowships/fellowship-listing
Also check out the information from professional societies:
https://www.amssm.org/Residents-Students.html
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
It looks like you're interested in pursuing a career in sports medicine! To help you get started on this path, here’s some advice:
1. Undergraduate Major: For aspiring sports medicine physicians, common pre-med majors include Biology, Chemistry, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology. These fields offer a strong foundation in the sciences, human anatomy, and the physical mechanics behind sports injuries. While you can technically major in other subjects, these choices will help you meet medical school prerequisites and build a strong science-based background.
2. Medical School: After completing your undergraduate degree, you'll need to attend medical school to earn either a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree. Medical school will include two years of classroom instruction followed by two years of clinical rotations, where you’ll gain hands-on patient care experience.
3. Residency: After medical school, you'll enter a residency program. For sports medicine, common residencies include Orthopedic Surgery, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). This training will last about 3–4 years.
4. Fellowship in Sports Medicine: After residency, you’ll complete a sports medicine fellowship for 1–2 years. During this period, you’ll gain specialized knowledge in treating sports-related injuries, working as a team doctor, and learning advanced diagnostic techniques.
5. Licensing: After completing your education, you’ll need to pass licensing exams and obtain the necessary medical licensure to practice in your state.
It's great that you're already thinking ahead! Look for colleges with strong science programs and pre-med advising, and remember to take things one step at a time. You’re on a promising path!
1. Undergraduate Major: For aspiring sports medicine physicians, common pre-med majors include Biology, Chemistry, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology. These fields offer a strong foundation in the sciences, human anatomy, and the physical mechanics behind sports injuries. While you can technically major in other subjects, these choices will help you meet medical school prerequisites and build a strong science-based background.
2. Medical School: After completing your undergraduate degree, you'll need to attend medical school to earn either a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree. Medical school will include two years of classroom instruction followed by two years of clinical rotations, where you’ll gain hands-on patient care experience.
3. Residency: After medical school, you'll enter a residency program. For sports medicine, common residencies include Orthopedic Surgery, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). This training will last about 3–4 years.
4. Fellowship in Sports Medicine: After residency, you’ll complete a sports medicine fellowship for 1–2 years. During this period, you’ll gain specialized knowledge in treating sports-related injuries, working as a team doctor, and learning advanced diagnostic techniques.
5. Licensing: After completing your education, you’ll need to pass licensing exams and obtain the necessary medical licensure to practice in your state.
It's great that you're already thinking ahead! Look for colleges with strong science programs and pre-med advising, and remember to take things one step at a time. You’re on a promising path!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1196
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Mila,
It's awesome that you're already thinking ahead about your career in sports medicine. Here’s a general outline of the path you might want to take:
1. Undergraduate Major: Start with a major in Biology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Pre-Med. These fields will give you a strong foundation in the sciences and human anatomy.
2. Medical School: After earning your undergraduate degree, you'll need to attend medical school to become a doctor. Any of the above majors can help you prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and the rigorous coursework in medical school.
3. Residency Program: Once you’ve completed medical school, you'll need to enter a residency program in a related field such as orthopedics, internal medicine, or family medicine.
4. Fellowship in Sports Medicine: After residency, you may choose to complete a fellowship in sports medicine to gain specialized training and experience.
While choosing a college, look for schools that have strong pre-med programs, good advising services, and opportunities for undergraduate research. It’s also important to find a place where you feel comfortable and supported.
Remember, this journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Take it step by step, and you'll get there. You've got a promising future ahead of you!
Best wishes!
It's awesome that you're already thinking ahead about your career in sports medicine. Here’s a general outline of the path you might want to take:
1. Undergraduate Major: Start with a major in Biology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Pre-Med. These fields will give you a strong foundation in the sciences and human anatomy.
2. Medical School: After earning your undergraduate degree, you'll need to attend medical school to become a doctor. Any of the above majors can help you prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and the rigorous coursework in medical school.
3. Residency Program: Once you’ve completed medical school, you'll need to enter a residency program in a related field such as orthopedics, internal medicine, or family medicine.
4. Fellowship in Sports Medicine: After residency, you may choose to complete a fellowship in sports medicine to gain specialized training and experience.
While choosing a college, look for schools that have strong pre-med programs, good advising services, and opportunities for undergraduate research. It’s also important to find a place where you feel comfortable and supported.
Remember, this journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Take it step by step, and you'll get there. You've got a promising future ahead of you!
Best wishes!
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Mila,
To improve your Grade Point Average (GPA) above 4, consider a few strategies. You don't need to aim for Harvard, but imagine if you did! Start by eating small meals often and staying hydrated. Include moderate amounts of complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index, like dark pumpernickel rye bread or baked beans, throughout the day. Add small portions of protein like lean meat, chicken, fish, eggs, or cheese to support brain health. Include plenty of salad vegetables. If you have any medical concerns, consult a registered dietitian. Pursuing an undergraduate degree in biology, chemistry, or physics can prepare you well for a career in medicine. A doctorate in sports medicine, focusing on a popular physical activity, is also recommended.
For education options, check out local colleges in Texas that offer advanced degrees in sports medicine. You can find a list of top colleges on websites like EduRank and Ideal MedHealth.
These educational paths can be expensive, so consider seeking scholarships or employment. Resources like the West Texas Sports Medicine Scholarship and various sports medicine scholarship directories can be helpful.
To build your network, join local sports medicine associations as a student member. Explore internship opportunities, such as research projects during your undergraduate studies. Learn to use PubMed for biomedical research and engage in sports medicine blogs and discussions. There's a science to winning, not just art. Start by volunteering with local sports groups.
Best wishes,
JC
To improve your Grade Point Average (GPA) above 4, consider a few strategies. You don't need to aim for Harvard, but imagine if you did! Start by eating small meals often and staying hydrated. Include moderate amounts of complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index, like dark pumpernickel rye bread or baked beans, throughout the day. Add small portions of protein like lean meat, chicken, fish, eggs, or cheese to support brain health. Include plenty of salad vegetables. If you have any medical concerns, consult a registered dietitian. Pursuing an undergraduate degree in biology, chemistry, or physics can prepare you well for a career in medicine. A doctorate in sports medicine, focusing on a popular physical activity, is also recommended.
For education options, check out local colleges in Texas that offer advanced degrees in sports medicine. You can find a list of top colleges on websites like EduRank and Ideal MedHealth.
These educational paths can be expensive, so consider seeking scholarships or employment. Resources like the West Texas Sports Medicine Scholarship and various sports medicine scholarship directories can be helpful.
To build your network, join local sports medicine associations as a student member. Explore internship opportunities, such as research projects during your undergraduate studies. Learn to use PubMed for biomedical research and engage in sports medicine blogs and discussions. There's a science to winning, not just art. Start by volunteering with local sports groups.
Best wishes,
JC
Cheri Hall
Physical Therapist
103
Answers
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Updated
Cheri’s Answer
Hi Mila,
It is great that you have identified interest in becoming a sports medicine physician and already started looking at colleges. Technically, you can major in any area of interest, but most pre-med students will choose to major in a science such as Biology or Chemistry. You will need to complete certain prerequisite science classes to apply to medical school, and a science major will include all of these prerequisites. Additionally, a major such as Exercise and Sport Science would also provide a solid science foundation for medical school with the added benefit of exposure to the science behind the treatment of athletic injuries.
It is great that you have identified interest in becoming a sports medicine physician and already started looking at colleges. Technically, you can major in any area of interest, but most pre-med students will choose to major in a science such as Biology or Chemistry. You will need to complete certain prerequisite science classes to apply to medical school, and a science major will include all of these prerequisites. Additionally, a major such as Exercise and Sport Science would also provide a solid science foundation for medical school with the added benefit of exposure to the science behind the treatment of athletic injuries.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Mila