New SMU major teaches science and business of sports

Students interested in the fitness and sports professions can now apply to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Physiology and Sports Management (APSM).

Introduced this fall, the new degree offered through the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development offers two concentrations:

• Applied Physiology and Enterprise, which provides a science foundation in health and fitness.
  
• Sport Management, which provides the business background for students interested in work with sports organizations.

"This program is pretty unique," says Peter Gifford, chair of the Applied Physiology and Wellness Department. "We don't know of another that has this blend of science and business. Regardless of which concentration students choose, they'll have a thorough understanding of their ultimate product, the athlete."

Possible careers in this field include management of sports organizations, management of a health and fitness facility, corporate fitness programming, sports marketing and public relations, and representation of professional athletes.

The program also offers three minor concentrations. SMU's location is a clear advantage for students in this program: Gifford says the number of professional sports teams in the Dallas-Fort Worth region offers a great opportunity for student internships and, eventually, jobs.

For more information, visit smu.edu/apsm .

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