meinmorgen

Sports science and coaching

Sports scientists and coaches plan training, test performance and help people stay healthy and active, in clubs, in fitness or in elite sport.

Typical tasks

  • creating training plans for individuals or groups
  • leading training sessions and correcting technique
  • measuring performance and evaluating progress
  • advising on exercise, health and injury prevention
  • organising sports activities and events

Where people work

Sports scientists and coaches work in sports clubs and federations, gyms, rehabilitation facilities, workplace health management and research.

A good fit if

  • sport is a big part of your life
  • you are good at explaining and motivating others
  • you have stamina, also when studying
  • you like working in a team

Education pathways in Austria

In Austria you need the Matura (school-leaving exam), for example at an AHS (academic secondary school), to study sports science, and you must pass a sports aptitude test before starting at university. Coaching qualifications are also offered by sports federations. In Germany the equivalent is the Gymnasiale Oberstufe (Abitur) and a university degree, in Switzerland the Gymnasium (Maturität) and a degree at a university or ETH.

AHS-Oberstufe (Gymnasium)
General education with Matura as the basis for university. 4 years
Universität
Academic degree: bachelor, master or diploma. 3 to 6 years

Matching schools in Austria

A selection from our school list. Not every school of this type offers every specialisation, so ask the school directly.

  • BG und BRG Oberwart
    AHS, 7400 Oberwart, Burgenland
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • Europagymnasium Klagenfurt
    AHS, 9020 Klagenfurt, Kärnten
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • BG und BRG Baden Biondekgasse
    AHS, 2500 Baden, Niederösterreich
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • Akademisches Gymnasium Linz
    AHS, 4020 Linz, Oberösterreich
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • Akademisches Gymnasium Salzburg
    AHS, 5020 Salzburg, Salzburg
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • Akademisches Gymnasium Graz
    AHS, 8010 Graz, Steiermark
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • Akademisches Gymnasium Innsbruck
    AHS, 6020 Innsbruck, Tirol
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026
  • BG Bregenz Blumenstraße
    AHS, 6900 Bregenz, Vorarlberg
    Collected automaticallySource: initial collection from public information, as of Oktober 2026

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to be a competitive athlete?

No. For the degree, though, you must pass a sports aptitude test, which you can prepare for specifically.

Can I become a PE teacher?

Yes, through a teacher education degree with the subject physical education and sport.

Are there paths without a degree?

Yes, for example fitness instructor training or coaching courses run by federations. They are usually shorter and practical.

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