Last Updated on February 22, 2022
Sports Degrees and Careers in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is a top destination for students and job seekers. Sports-crazed Boston packs arenas year-round with baseball, football, basketball, and hockey. Famous rivalries such as BU-BC football keep the college sports scene vibrant. From health and wellness to sports psychology to sports analytics, an active population heavily involved in watching, playing, and enjoying sports at all levels means excellent opportunities for sports degree graduates in the Bay State.
In This Guide
- Jump to Athletic Training Programs in Massachusetts
- Jump to Exercise Science Programs in Massachusetts
- Jump to Kinesiology Programs in Massachusetts
- Jump to Sport Psychology Programs in Massachusetts
- Jump to Sport Analytics Programs in Massachusetts
Kinesiology Programs in Massachusetts
Coaches, trainers, and future physical therapists, among others will find Massachusetts a great place to earn a kinesiology degree, which like exercise training is a great foundation for either immediate entry into the job market, or an advanced sports degree. UMass Amherst offers kinesiology programs at each level (B.A., M.A., PhD.)
In this section:
Kinesiology Master’s Programs
Kinesiology Master’s Programs
University of Massachusetts at Amherst | Amherst, MA
MS in Kinesiology
University of Massachusetts at Amherst | Amherst, MA
MS in Kinesiology
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 32
Total Tuition: $8,507 in-state, $17,886 out-of-state, per semester, 12+ credits, tuition and fees
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
The sport management program at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst is highly regarded for its excellence. By choosing kinesiology as the foundation for sport management, students benefit from both the science of movement and business principles. The university also offers valuable research opportunities in the field of kinesiology, allowing students to contribute to scientific knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and develop essential research skills. The comprehensive curriculum covers a range of kinesiology topics, including exercise science, biomechanics, and motor control, providing students with a deep understanding of human movement and its impact on health and performance. Additionally, a study conducted at the university found that living on campus plays a crucial role in adult undergraduate student success, demonstrating the university’s commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment. The University of Massachusetts at Amherst promotes an interdisciplinary approach to kinesiology education, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education by integrating various perspectives and disciplines related to movement sciences.
University of Massachusetts, Amherst | Amherst, MA
Master of Science in Kinesiology
University of Massachusetts, Amherst | Amherst, MA
Master of Science in Kinesiology
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 32 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Motor Systems, Physical Activity, Physiology
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
Umass, home to one of the best Kinesiology departments in the United States, has a unique admission process. Each student is required to apply and gain admission through an individual professor. This ensures that students are matched with a faculty member whose specialization and research align with their own interests.
Exercise Science Degrees in Massachusetts
The Boston area is 8th in the nation for exercise physiologists’ annual mean wage, according to BLS data. With the high concentration of universities in Massachusetts, a versatile exercise science degree makes a solid foundation for a career or further study at the master or PhD level. Northeastern University’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences houses their Exercise Science Research Laboratory and a number of graduate and joint degree programs.
In this section:
Exercise Science Master’s Programs
Exercise Science Master’s Programs
Northeastern University | Boston, MA
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Northeastern University | Boston, MA
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Delivery Method: On Campus and Online
Credits Required: 34 Credit Hours
Accelerate your career as a healthcare professional with Northeastern’s online MS in Exercise Science. This program is meticulously designed to equip you with advanced knowledge and skills, so you can excel as a leader in the field. Discover a range of exciting career opportunities as an exercise physiologist, coach, or personal trainer. Their comprehensive curriculum focuses on cultivating practical skills and mastering theoretical principles, empowering you to apply your expertise effectively. As an additional advantage, Northeastern University offers a concentration in Public Health, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of exercise and physical activity’s impact on public health. Benefit from the convenience of flexible, asynchronous online coursework, which can be tailored to your schedule. Whether you choose to study full-time or part-time, they have options that fit your needs. Take the first step towards a fulfilling and impactful career in exercise science with Northeastern University.
Salem State College | Salem, MA
Sport and Movement Science
Salem State College | Salem, MA
Sport and Movement Science
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 31-37
Total Tuition: $8,758 in-state, $10,358 out-of-state; fall and spring semesters, 12-credits each
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Become a leader in recreation and sports with Salem State College’s Sport and Movement Science program. Their concentrations in management prepare students for managerial roles in the industry. Gain specialized knowledge in rehabilitation science, strength and conditioning, and athletic training. Their M.Ed. program in Leadership in Physical Education and Movement Studies focuses on developing leadership skills in physical education. Graduates acquire contemporary knowledge and patient care skills for immediate entry into the job market. Expand your professional knowledge in sport management with their online Graduate Certificate in Sport Development and Management. Enjoy the flexibility of online learning to balance your other commitments. Join us and take the next step towards a successful career in the sports industry.
Springfield College | Springfield, MA
Master of Education or Master of Science in Exercise Physiology
Springfield College | Springfield, MA
Master of Education or Master of Science in Exercise Physiology
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Clinical exercise physiology, applied exercise physiology
Total Tuition: $36,482 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
Achieve peak performance with a Master’s Degree in Sport and Exercise Psychology from Springfield College. Are you passionate about the field of sport and exercise psychology? Their program is designed for students like you who want to delve into both the scholarly and practical aspects of this exciting field. With a focus on understanding sport and exercise from psychological, physiological, and sociocultural perspectives, their interdisciplinary program equips graduates with the skills to turn theory into practice. You’ll learn how to help individuals in sport and exercise contexts maximize their performance. Through a combination of coursework in theory, measurement, and application of sport and exercise psychology, as well as related subjects like exercise physiology and motor development/control, you’ll gain a well-rounded education. Choose between a traditional thesis track for the MS degree or a non-thesis track for the MEd degree. Whichever path you choose, you’ll be on your way to becoming a leader in the field of sport and exercise psychology.
Sports Psychology in Massachusetts
As the psychology of sports and performance rises in prominence, some Massachusetts are offering programs in this area. Springfield College offers a Master’s in Sport and Exercise Psychology while many other schools have course offerings.
Sports Analytics in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is world-renowned for it’s top research universities and groundbreaking STEM programs. In addition, the emphasis on sports is particularly strong (or obnoxious, depending on how you look at it!) in Boston. Combining mathematics and the study of sport is a perfect combination in the Bay State.
Northeastern University | Boston, MA
Master of Professional Studies in Analytics
Northeastern University | Boston, MA
Master of Professional Studies in Analytics
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 34 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Applied Machine Intelligence, Evidence-Based Management, Statistical Modeling
Total Tuition: $40,600 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Expand Your Career Opportunities with Northeastern University’s Analytics Program Discover how Northeastern University’s Analytics Program can open doors to a range of industries, including the exciting field of sports. While the program offers extensive coverage of sports analytics, its curriculum goes far beyond this niche, providing you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in any industry. Don’t just take our word for it – read the blog post featuring successful alumni who have built thriving careers in sports analytics thanks to this exceptional program.
Athletic Training Programs in Massachusetts
Sport participation is strong at all levels in Massachusetts, which means plentiful opportunities for athletic training students and recent graduates in the state. Springfield College and Merrimack College both have well-known athletic training programs.
Athletic Training Master’s Programs
Boston University | Boston, MA
Master of Science in Athletic Training
Boston University | Boston, MA
Master of Science in Athletic Training
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 69 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $102,811 total tuition and fees for completion within two years
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Become an expert in the field with Boston University’s Master of Science in Athletic Training program. Whether you dream of working with collegiate or professional sports teams, in clinical settings, or rehabilitation centers, their comprehensive program will prepare you for success. Gain valuable knowledge and skills through classroom instruction, hands-on clinical experiences, and research opportunities. Their data-driven approach ensures that you are equipped with the most up-to-date techniques and knowledge for evidence-based practice. With concise language and clear headings, their program delivers information efficiently, providing you with practical and relevant knowledge. Their authoritative tone instills confidence and credibility, preparing you for your future career. Engage with real-world applications and hands-on experiences to enhance your understanding and skill development. Join them and take an active role in your learning journey.
Endicott College | Beverly, MA
Master of Science in Athletic Training
Endicott College | Beverly, MA
Master of Science in Athletic Training
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 72 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $34,700 per year for three years followed by $700 per credit hour for Master’s portion.
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Earn two degrees in just five years with Endicott College’s accelerated master’s degree program for aspiring athletic trainers. This exciting program combines a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a Master of Science in Athletic Training. Students will spend three years studying Exercise Science/Pre-Professional Athletic Training before diving into the Professional Phase for their final two years. Gain practical, hands-on experience and a strong foundation in the discipline through their intensive curriculum, aligned with the CAATE 2020 Professional Standards. Discover the path to a successful career in athletic training at Endicott College.
Lasell University | Newton, MA
Masters in Athletic Training
Lasell University | Newton, MA
Masters in Athletic Training
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 63 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $600
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Accelerate your career with the CAATE accredited MSAT program at Lasell University. Their 23-month hybrid model combines online learning with valuable classroom experience, providing you with the skills you need to excel in the field. With a focus on preparing students for the Board of Certification Exam, our program includes a comprehensive curriculum of online, hybrid, and face-to-face coursework, as well as hands-on clinical education, simulations, and personalized patient encounters. Take the next step towards becoming a certified athletic trainer with Lasell University.
Living in Massachusetts
The nearly 7 million residents [source] who call Massachusetts home are concentrated most densely around the greater Boston metropolitan area, which also includes portions of Rhode Island, Maine, and New Hampshire. Close to Boston are many attractions adding to the quality of life for Massachusetts residents. These include ocean destinations such as Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket, the best skiing on the East Coast in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, and idyllic Old-New England farming communities and hill towns in the rural western half of the state. Adding to the charm of life in Massachusetts, the four seasons can be felt in full effect with cold, snowy winters, mild springs, hot summers, and autumns with bright foliage. While the region’s larger cities attract young, highly educated workers seeking opportunities for networking and advancement, some rural towns can make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time a century or more.
Working in Massachusetts
People looking for a good place to start a career, change a career, or start a business would do well to choose Massachusetts. The job market here is well above average by many metrics and boasts one of the highest median wages in the country [source]. Officially, there were 42,830 jobs in the sports and entertainment industries in the Boston Metro Area, as of 2019, as counted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics [source].
Residents here are healthier, more educated, more highly paid, and have better access to healthcare than the national averages [source]. This means that you likely won’t have to make as many sacrifices when you are still an entry-level job candidate and employee. Top industries include higher education, finance, technology, and medicine. In Massachusetts and across the nation, there are a growing number of jobs with companies not officially related to sports, but enthusiastically employing graduates of sports-related degrees. The demand for trainers, occupational therapists, for example, continues to rise in Massachusetts and across the country. As business thrives in Massachusetts, so too do graduates of sports-related degree programs.
Education in Massachusetts
From the public education system to private schools, Massachusetts residents benefit from one of the best public education systems and some of the best private schools in the country. Students from across the nation and around the world come to the state in large numbers to attend not just the internationally famous schools such as Harvard, Boston University, MIT, and UMass Amherst, as well as less famous but very highly regarded institutions around the state.
College consortia and cross-registration agreements make it possible for students at many universities to audit or earn credits at other universities around the state and within the region. For example, students at Boston University can take classes at 20 other colleges and universities within the Boston Consortium for Higher Education. These include Boston College, Harvard, Northeaster, MIT, and many other top-ranked schools. Many of these institutions are members of multiple consortia, so the advantages of attending college in Massachusetts, with its high density of top notch schools is quite substantial.
There are over one hundred colleges and universities in this relatively small state, giving it one of the highest densities of higher education institutions in the country. Universities competing in NCAA Division I sports include Boston College, Boston University, Harvard University, Holy Cross University, Merrimack College, Northeastern University, UMass Amherst, and Umass Lowell.