Alternatively, you can consider physical therapy as a career, specializing in sports physical therapy. You can apply to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program after your BS degree (in Athletic Training, if you so desire). Sports and Orthopedic PTs earn good money and play a vital role in the rehabilitation of athletes and people with sports injuries.

If you want to become a sports physician, then yes, you need complete 3 to 4 years of undergraduate studies including the pre-med curriculum, then move on to medical school. Sports medicine is a specialty within internal medicine. You’ll need to complete residency and/or fellowship to become a sports physician. It’ll take you 8 years of college and 3-7 years of post-graduate training.