Athletic Training

Athletic Training is recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA) as an allied health care profession and the AMA recommends certified athletic trainers in every high school. The field of Athletic Training has grown substantially in the last few years and continues to broaden.

What Does an Athletic Trainer Do?

As part of a complete health care team, the athletic trainer evaluates, diagnoses, advises and treats patients to aid in the recovery and prevention of injuries and illnesses. They also provide immediate emergency and follow-up care to injured patients, along with developing and administering prevention and treatment programs.

Setting and Work Environment

High Schools
Colleges and Universities
Professional Sports
Sports medicine clinics
Physican offices and hospitals
Corporate health programs
Health clubs
Clinical and industrial health care programs
Athletic training education programs

Job Features

Daily interaction with highly motivated patient population
Pressure situations when dealing with on-field examinations and return-to-play decisions
Frequent communication with other members of the health care team
Hands-on work
Travel
Simple to complex patient problems

Education

Bachelor’s degree required
Completion of a CAATE-accredited program
Board of Certification certified