Enrollment grows in Alfred University’s Sports and Health Sciences major

The Sports and Health Sciences major at Alfred University is quickly becoming one of the most dynamic programs on campus, offering students a strong foundation in healthcare and preparing them for a variety of career paths. With multiple tracks, hands-on learning, and a supportive community, the program equips students with both the knowledge and experience to succeed in the health sciences field.

According to Jason Honeck, associate clinical professor of athletic training and director of the Athletic Training Program, the Sports and Health Sciences major was designed to give students flexibility and preparation for multiple healthcare careers.

"There are five different tracks-pre-athletic training, pre-physician assistant, rehabilitation science, performance enhancement, and a general track," Honeck explains. "Each prepares students for different directions, whether it's graduate school in physical therapy or physician assistant studies, or entering careers in strength and conditioning, exercise physiology, or even personal training."

The curriculum was built by studying requirements from top graduate programs, ensuring that Alfred students not only meet admissions criteria but also enter with the knowledge to thrive. The program, now in its second year, has already grown to about 40 students. Honeck, himself a 1998 graduate of Alfred, describes the program as "bigger and better" than its predecessor, the Athletic Training major, offering more opportunities for students who want to pursue healthcare careers.

Student Perspectives

Kate Quinn, a junior in the program, appreciates the opportunities that the major provides.

"After college, I hope to work in Medical Device Sales and move to a big city with some amazing hospitals to work at," Quinn says. "My advice for a student considering this major would be to take advantage of every opportunity given to you. It is a tough major with a lot of work, but if you use the resources-professors, tutoring, even the current Athletic Trainers-you can get through it. It gives you a great clinical background for future careers."

For Jayda Felker, also a junior, the program has been a rewarding challenge.

"After graduation, I hope to become a certified Athletic Trainer and maybe get dual certification for Physical Therapy," she says. "This major is all about being hands-on and can be very rewarding, especially if you are passionate about helping others. Don't be afraid to ask questions, connect with professors outside of class time, and take advantage of every opportunity!"

Both Quinn and Felker highlight the program's emphasis on resources, mentorship, and active

engagement as key to success.

Preparing Students for the Future

One of the unique strengths of the program is its strong connection to athletics. Many students enrolled are also athletes, and Honeck believes that background makes them especially well-suited for healthcare fields.

"By being an athlete, you have a sense of what it's like to be physically active and injured. That experience helps students relate better to future patients," Honeck says.

Beyond academics, students are encouraged to explore minors, with coaching being one of the most popular options. The flexibility of the program allows students to tailor their studies to their interests, especially for those entering with transfer credits.

Building a Strong Foundation

The Sports and Health Sciences major represents Alfred University's commitment to providing students with specialized, forward-looking programs. By combining classroom learning, clinical preparation, and individualized guidance, the program ensures that graduates are ready for both the workforce and graduate education.

As Honeck puts it, "If somebody really wants to enter a career in healthcare, this is a good starting point."

Article written by undergraduate Andrii Maltsev