Sports Science Academy Program Overview

The Sports Science Academy combines biology, health science, and research to understand human performance and well-being. Students explore how exercise, nutrition, and psychology affect the body, using Vernier technology to collect and analyze data. They complete a year-long research project and create a professional portfolio that highlights skills in data analysis, communication, and applied health science.

Credit Summary

Yearlong program (2 periods daily)

2.5 high school credits total • Semester 1 = 1.25 credits total & Semester 2 = 1.25 credits total

• Includes: IB Sports, Exercise & Health Science (SL), Advanced Research in Science, Statistical Analysis in Science
• Recognition: IB SEHS (SL) exam optional • Portfolio includes research paper and poster presentation

Eligibility & Enrollment

Open to grades 10–12. Students should have completed or be enrolled in Biology and Chemistry. Curiosity about human health, performance, or wellness is encouraged; no formal prerequisites beyond interest and initiative.

Who Should Participate

Perfect for students interested in sports medicine, nutrition, exercise science, rehabilitation, biomechanics, or health coaching. Also ideal for students who simply want to better understand how to live a healthy and active life through science-based learning.

Things to Note

• Approximate work-based learning: Speakers (15 hrs), Field Trips (10 hrs), Research (20 hrs), Career and Portfolio (10 hrs).
• Students complete a research-based Internal Assessment (IA) and poster presentation for their portfolio.
• Emphasizes connections between science and everyday wellness — exercise, nutrition, injury prevention, and mental health.
• IB exams administered in April/May for eligible students.

Sports Science Academy Course Information

Sports Science Academy (Code: A185)

IB Sports, Exercise & Health Science (SL) — 586A185

Study anatomy, exercise physiology, energy systems, biomechanics, skill acquisition, and sports psychology. Apply concepts in labs and motion studies; IB exam optional (April/May). Students may continue to IB Sports HL Year 1 upon succesful completion of this SL course.

Advanced Research in Science — 240A185

Design and conduct an individual experiment related to sports/health science. Produce a formal research paper (IA-style) and a professional research poster for your portfolio.

Statistical Analysis in Science — 745

Learn experimental design, data collection, and interpretation for performance and rehab contexts. Use Vernier Graphical Analysis and Video Analysis to support evidence-based conclusions.

Quick Links & Resources

• Sports Science Academy — External Website
• Vernier Graphical Analysis
• Vernier Video Analysis
• IBO: Sports, Exercise & Health Science (SL)
• International Baccalaureate (IB) — DP Curriculum
• Academic Programs & Pathways — Sports Science (District)

Future Pathways

Emerald Campus → Education / Employment/ Enlistment/ Entrepreneurship

After High School or 2-Year College

• Continue study in exercise science, health, or nutrition at a local community college or technical program.
• Earn professional certifications such as CPR, First Aid, or Personal Trainer (ACE, NASM, NSCA).
• Pursue fitness, wellness, or rehabilitation assistant roles while gaining real-world experience through internships or shadowing.
• Participate in college athletics programs or sports performance centers to apply learned training and analysis skills.

After 4-Year College or University

• Major in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Health Promotion, or Physical Therapy.
• Pursue advanced careers such as Athletic Trainer, Physical Therapist, Exercise Physiologist, Sports Psychologist, or Biomechanist.
• Research opportunities in human performance, sports technology, or injury prevention.

Military Pathways

• Students interested in health, physical performance, or fitness can apply their skills in the U.S. Armed Forces.
• Potential pathways include:
  • U.S. Army: Combat Medic Specialist (68W) • Physical Therapy Specialist • Fitness Trainer
  • U.S. Air Force: Aerospace Physiology • Tactical Fitness Specialist • Biomedical Equipment Technician
  • U.S. Navy: Hospital Corpsman • Sports Medicine Technician • Physical Readiness Coordinator
  • U.S. Marine Corps: Combat Medic • Health Services Technician • Strength and Conditioning Support
• Military training provides real-world fitness, nutrition, and health management experience, often with college tuition benefits.

Career & Professional Readiness

• Build a professional portfolio featuring lab data, research posters, and health education projects.
• Engage in real-world projects with athletic trainers, sports scientists, and healthcare professionals.
• Strengthen communication, teamwork, and leadership skills through applied performance testing and group projects.

Entrepreneurship & Personal Growth

• Develop entrepreneurial skills for launching fitness programs, training studios, or nutrition consulting services.
• Learn personal wellness, time management, and self-discipline through goal setting and progress tracking.
• Explore the growing fields of digital fitness technology, wearable performance analytics, and holistic health coaching.