Explore This Path

Athlete

💰 Earn $66K-$149K

📚 No Degree Required

⏱️ 6–12 Month Training

📈 5.5% Job Growth

Pursue your passion for sports and compete at the highest levels.
Inspire others and achieve greatness through dedication and skill.
Experience the thrill of constant improvement and personal growth.

What Athletes DoCompete in athletic events. Becoming a professional athlete requires years of specialized training, including rigorous physical conditioning, skill development, significant commitment of time and resources, and competitive experience tailored to the chosen sport. The role of formal education in this journey varies; some athletes prioritize it alongside their training, while others may delay or adapt their education based on their athletic career's demands and timeline.

Assess performance following athletic competition, identifying strengths and weaknesses and making adjustments to improve future performance.
Maintain equipment used in a particular sport.
Attend scheduled practice or training sessions.
Maintain optimum physical fitness levels by training regularly, following nutrition plans, or consulting with health professionals.
Participate in athletic events or competitive sports, according to established rules and regulations.

Athletes Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationNone

Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time6 months to 1 year

Job Openings2,200 Annually

Median earnings

California Median

$79,040

Most earn within this range

median ▾

$66K25th percentile

$149K75th percentile

National Median

$66,710

Most earn within this range

median ▾

$37K25th percentile

$110K75th percentile

Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@taylor_fritz

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Influencing or leading others
Working with my hands

you value

Accomplishing things
Personal relationships
Receiving recognition

you are skilled in

Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing
Social Perceptiveness

Go Deeper: Athletes Explained

AthleteExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

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