Athletic Training Education Overview

Athletic Training is an academic major or graduate equivalent major program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). The minimum entry point into the profession of Athletic Training is at the baccalaureate level which will lead to a degree in Athletic Training. Upon completion of a CAATE-accredited Athletic Training Education program, students become eligible to obtain national certification granted by the NATA Board of Certification, Inc. (BOC).

 Clinical Education

Students are required to participate in a minimum of two years of academic clinical education. Clinical experiences provide students with opportunities to practice, under the direct supervision of qualified Clinical Instructors.

 THE ATC® CREDENTIAL

The ATC® credential and the BOC requirements recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies and is the only accredited certification program for athletic trainers. To be certified, an individual must demonstrate that he/she is an athletic trainer capable of performing the required duties without threat of harm to the public.  Athletic training education uses a competency-based approach in both the classroom and clinical settings.

The knowledge, skills, and abilities required for competent performance as an entry-level athletic trainer fall into three categories:

1. Understanding, applying, and analyzing;

2. Knowledge and decision-making;

3. Special performance abilities.

 Using a medical-based education model, Athletic Training students are educated to provide comprehensive preventive services and care in six domains of clinical practice:

1. Prevention

2. Clinical Evaluation and Diagnosis

3. Immediate Care

4. Treatment, Rehabilitation and Reconditioning

5. Organization and Administration

6. Professional Responsibility

For more information regarding the educational, certification, and licensure requirements for athletic trainers visit:

The National Athletic Trainers’ Association – www.nata.org

The National Athletic Trainers’ Association Education Council – www.nataec.org

The Board of Certification – www.bocatc.org

The Commission on the Accreditation of Athletic Training Education Programs–www.caate.net