The idea of allowing college athletes to major in their sport has generated significant discussion over the years, with proponents advocating for recognition of athletic training as a legitimate academic pursuit, while critics expressed concerns about the implications for the educational mission of universities. The debate touches on issues of academic integrity, the commercialization of college sports, and the broader educational value of athletics.
The Current Landscape of College Athletics
Currently, athletics are considered extracurricular activities without a direct connection to academic degrees – however, it’s easily arguable that no other extracurricular activities, such as school clubs or Greek life, require quite so much out of their members. The NCAA’s 20-hour rule, which states that no student-athletes should spend no more than 20 hours per week on their respective sport, is a pipe dream. The majority of college athletes spend upwards of 30 hours, some even reported 40 hours, on their sport, making it virtually impossible for these students to pursue more rigorous degrees. The demanding schedules of practices and games and the extensive travel required for competitions put a wrench in the effort of balancing athletics and academics. The pull for both puts a significant amount of stress on student-athletes, who list academic worries as their main mental health concern.
The Case for a Sports Major
A sports major could offer a tailored curriculum that accommodates the unique challenges of student-athletes and balances their commitments. Myles Brand, former NCAA president, likened the educational value of athletics to performance majors like dance and music. A competitive sport major could formalize the educational benefits of athletic participation and integrate it with academic coursework.
Integration of Athletics and Academics
Majors in performing arts such as music, theatre, or dance require similar levels of commitment and discipline that collegiate sports require – a sports major would recognize the attributes required, offering academic validation and formal acknowledgment of the skills athletes develop. The educational benefits of participating in competitive sports are often overlooked, however, athletics teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, leadership, time management and resilience. By treating sports as an academic discipline, universities can formally acknowledge these benefits. A competitive sport major could also include courses in exercise science, sports psychology, or sports analytics, combining practical athletic experience with theoretical knowledge. The interdisciplinary approach can enrich the educational experience of student-athletes and better prepare them for careers both within and beyond sports.
Creating Sustainable Athletics Programs and Justifying Expenditures
One of the primary challenges faced by university presidents and boards is justifying the substantial expenditures on intercollegiate athletes. In 2022, median expenses exceeded generated revenues by $21.9 million at Division I colleges. Critics argue that athletics are extracurricular activities unrelated to academic degrees, making it difficult to justify these costs. By introducing a competitive sport major, universities can align athletic programs with their academic missions, providing a clear justification for the financial investment in sports.
Additionally, integrating athletics into the academic framework can also address the financial sustainability of athletic programs. With the NCAA facing legal and political challenges, such as the recent NCAA settlement and ongoing unionization efforts, universities must find new ways to justify and manage their athletic expenditures. A sport major could attract new enrollment and funding opportunities, as it offers a unique academic program that appeals to a broad range of students, not just athletes.
The Case Against a Sports Major
Academic Dilution
Critics often cite the risk of diluting academic standards as a primary concern, arguing that allowing college athletes to major in their sport undermines the academic integrity of higher education institutions. Unlike traditional academic disciplines, sports are primarily performance-based and do not provide the comprehensive intellectual foundation necessary for a well-rounded education. This concern extends to the potential for academic programs to prioritize athletic success over academic achievement, which could compromise the quality and value of a college degree. Furthermore, opponents worry that such majors would perpetuate the perception of student-athletes as athletes first and students second, diminishing their opportunities to develop a broad skill set essential for life beyond their athletic careers.
Legal and Ethical Issues
The legal landscape surrounding college athletics is complex and evolving, particularly with recent changes related to athlete compensation and rights. Introducing a sports major could complicate the issues, raising questions about the treatment of student-athletes, the definition of amateurism, and the role of universities in providing education versus facilitating professional sports careers. Furthermore, there are concerns about the potential for exploitation, where athletes might be channeled into a sports major without receiving a broad and enriching educational experience.
Additionally, the commercialization of college sports, particularly in high-revenue sports like football and basketball, is a contentious issue. Introducing a sports major could amplify this commercialization, further entrenching the idea that athletics are primarily a revenue-generating activity rather than a component of holistic education. This shift could undermine non-revenue sports and lead to disproportionate funding and resources being allocated to sports programs, to the detriment of other academic departments.
Navigating the Future of College Athletics and Education
The concept of allowing college athletes to major in their sport raises important questions about the role of athletics in higher education. While such a program could provide significant benefits in terms of recognition, integration, and professional preparation, it also presents substantial challenges related to academic integrity, commercialization, and the true purpose of higher education.
For athletic directors and university administrators, the key will be finding a balance that honors the educational mission of institutions while recognizing the unique contributions and needs of student-athletes. This could involve creating interdisciplinary programs that combine sports studies with traditional academic disciplines, ensuring that athletes receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for a wide range of career paths.
Ultimately, the success of such programs will depend on a commitment to maintaining academic standards, providing adequate support for student-athletes, and fostering a culture that values both athletic and intellectual excellence. As the landscape of college sports continues to evolve, these considerations will be crucial in shaping policies and programs that benefit all students, athletes and non-athletes alike.
