Sports education and training is an individualized process these days. Choices and options for training and education can be almost overwhelming. There are online courses, certifications and degree programs. There are traditional military colleges and universities.

The student today needs to look at the equation at a deeper level and ask questions: "Is it the diploma that is important and necessary for my career path?" or "Do I simply need a rigorous program that will get me in the workforce quickly? You can find good non-accredited sports industry training programs. You need to research the same way parents and high school students look for the right college or university. There are plenty of less than sterling courses out there too. Buyer beware. Consider the following when looking for your school:

1. Look at brick and mortar schools with accredited programs.

2. Use online athletic training programs.

3. Find associations and unique programs for sports' professionals.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use established colleges and schools for sports industry education

Go to an established school for a good education, degree or certification that will hold up under scrutiny. Fully accredited schools will give you something no one can ever take from you.

I recommend: LaCrosse has exploded in popularity in this country. The need for experienced and knowledgeable coaches and leaders in the sport has increased. US LaCrosse strives to meet that need and offers training in LaCrosse for coaches and officials in the sport. NESTA certifies fitness trainers and club owners.

Take a rigorous online sports training course

There are many fine training programs online even in sports. Look for testimonials and professional looking websites. There are as many or more low standard programs and even scams online, as well. Find the great programs by researching, asking questions and scrutinizing.

I recommend: Find online home study programs for fitness trainers at LearningHigher. The online university ColumbiaSouthern offers an MBA concentration in Sports Management.

Find associations and societies, and unique sports education programs

Look at these resources, and define your needs and goals. Find the right program and associations for your athletic industry training. If you are a writer and a sports lover, you may want to become a sports journalist.

I recommend: National Athletics Trainers Association offers sports education to enthusiasts and fitness trainers as well. NASSM is a sports management association. Look into the sports journalism program in UT-Austin. OHSU teaches female athletes how to apply good health skills in an athletic career.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Athletics training programs and schools have popped up all over the Internet. It's a great opportunity for convenient education. However, watch the fine print. Look at the testimonials. Check Better Business Bureaus. Compare prices. Make sure the school is not too expensive compared to other schools, and that it offers a good solid program