Fitness and Sports Management
Turn your passion for sports and fitness into a career
The Fitness and Sports Management program at Kentucky Wesleyan College prepares students for careers in athletics, fitness, recreation, and sport business. With coursework in exercise science, management, and leadership, plus hands-on experiences, graduates are ready for roles in coaching, health promotion, and sport administration.
Fitness and Sports Management Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan, the Fitness and Sport Management major combines exercise science with business and leadership training to prepare you for dynamic careers in sports, recreation, and wellness. Students study anatomy, physiology, sport psychology, management, and marketing while developing practical skills through labs, case studies, and field experiences. Small classes provide personalized instruction from faculty with professional expertise in fitness and athletics. Engaged learning includes internships with athletic programs, recreation centers, and fitness facilities, offering valuable professional connections. Our program emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and communication, ensuring graduates are ready to manage programs, coach athletes, or pursue graduate study in sport or health-related fields. With this versatile degree, you’ll graduate prepared to make an impact in the fast-growing sports and fitness industry.
Career Paths
Athletic Director – Athletic directors oversee sports programs at schools, colleges, or recreation organizations. They manage budgets, facilities, staff, and scheduling while ensuring compliance with athletic policies and standards.
Strength and Conditioning Coach – These coaches design training programs that improve athletic performance and reduce injury risk. They often work with school teams, colleges, or professional athletes.
Sport Marketing Professional – Sport marketing professionals create campaigns, secure sponsorships, and build fan engagement for teams, athletic brands, and events. They combine business strategy with a passion for sports.
Recreation Program Manager – Recreation managers lead community programs, sports leagues, and wellness activities. They plan events, supervise staff, and promote health and fitness in local communities.
Fitness Facility Director – Facility directors manage gyms, wellness centers, or health clubs. They oversee memberships, staff, and programming to deliver positive client experiences and financial success.
Health Promotion Specialist – Health promotion specialists design wellness programs for organizations, schools, or communities. They educate individuals about healthy lifestyles and implement initiatives that improve public health.
Engaged Learning Opportunities
Internships
Fitness and Sports Management Program Requirements
The Fitness and Sports Management major requires approximately 39–42 credit hours. Core courses include Anatomy and Physiology, Kinesiology, Sport Psychology, Principles of Management, and Sport Marketing. Students also study exercise testing, facility management, and program leadership. Electives allow students to explore coaching, health promotion, or advanced exercise science. Laboratory components develop technical skills in fitness assessment and exercise prescription. A senior seminar provides integration of knowledge through research or applied projects. Internships in athletic programs, recreation facilities, or fitness organizations allow students to gain valuable real-world experience. This well-rounded curriculum ensures graduates are prepared for entry-level leadership roles, coaching positions, or advanced study in exercise science, sport management, or health-related fields.
