What is Sport Science?
Sport Science at Mizzou prepares you to build the skills to train and lead others in sports and fitness. You will get hands-on experience with movement and strength and conditioning while learning how to design safe, effective programs. Using proven, scientific-based approaches, you will learn how to improve performance and support recovery, both in the gym and on the field.
This program bridges the gap between science and sport, and is a great fit for those interested in personal training, strength and conditioning, or physical therapy.
What classes will I take?
As a Sport Science major, you’ll gain a comprehensive education. Our curriculum combines foundational courses in exercise science and human performance with specialized instruction in strength and conditioning, athletic development, and group or personal fitness. This includes classes such as:
- Exercise Techniques
- Foundations of Movement in Exercise
- Fitness Programming
Outside of these core courses, students have the option to choose an emphasis area. Explore more information and a complete class list for each emphasis below.
For students interested in certification through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) to become a group exercise instructor, personal trainer or exercise physiologist. It can also be a great fit for students who want a strong foundation for careers like physical therapy, enjoy working in sport environments and want to stand out by connecting exercise science with real-world athletic development.
For students interested in a career in strength and conditioning or athletic performance coaching. You will build the skills to communicate, analyze and apply training principles in real sport environments while preparing for national certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
Are there experiential learning opportunities?
Yes! At the University of Missouri, we believe in learning by doing.
During your time as a Sport Science major, students will complete an internship. The Sport Science Lab at Mizzou provides students with hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art environment guided by faculty who are certified coaching professionals with years of experience in collegiate performance training. Students will be able to apply classroom knowledge using advanced technologies like GPS monitoring, force plates, motion capture systems, and more.
Become a Sport Science major
You can declare Sport Science as your major at any point during your career at Mizzou without a separate application.
- New students: Apply to Mizzou and choose Sport Science as your major.
- Current students: Declare or change your major.
Frequently asked questions
Sport science is an excellent major for individuals who are passionate about health, fitness, and empowering others achieve their wellness goals. If you are looking for a hands-on experience, want to master the latest exercise training techniques and are eager to build valuable connections in the fitness industry, this program could be for you!
Sport science graduates go into careers such as personal training, fitness instruction, strength and conditioning, fitness consulting, corporate wellness, and recreational sports directing.
Students looking to continue their education could use this degree to go into physical therapy or athletic training, among other disciplines.
Throughout the program, you will engage in hands-on learning through various opportunities, including utilizing a state-of-the-art lab facility and completing a required internship.
You will also be supported by the Mizzou Sport Science Board of Directors, who are champions of the program and provide valuable connections to the field.
No. This degree is what we call “direct admit.” If you are admitted to the University of Missouri and select Sport Science as your major, you will be automatically admitted to the degree program.
Yes! The Sport Science degree is very flexible. You have the flexibility to complete the program entirely in person on Mizzou’s campus, entirely online through Mizzou Online, or a blend of both formats. Your quality of education will be the same — no matter what pathway works for you!
The University of Missouri undergraduate degree in Sport Science with an emphasis in Strength and Conditioning is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE), a recognized authority in quality strength and conditioning education. This accreditation demonstrates our commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and excellence in our strength and conditioning program. Our curriculum, faculty, and facilities have undergone rigorous evaluation to ensure that we provide students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to excel in the field of strength and conditioning and keep athletes safe.
Our general Sport Science track does not require CASCE accreditation because it focuses on broader roles in fitness and wellness outside of strength and conditioning.