Many collegiate student athletes dream of professional careers in athletics for their entire lives. However, it is estimated that only 2% of college athletes will have the opportunity to continue their sports career after graduating college (NCAA, 2018). An extensive review of existing literature revealed a lack of support for student athletes as they cope with the transition out of sport and loss of their athletic identity. This dissertation presents a needs assessment and subsequent program development study aiming to address the need for support when a student athlete retires from their sport. The results of this study concluded in the development of College Athlete Retirement Education (CARE), an eight session program to be implemented in college athletic departments. This program is unique in that it aims to offer career assistance to retiring student athletes, but also offers emotional support and validation in a group setting as athletes cope with the loss of their respective sport. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]