2 answers
Molly
Student
Bothell, Washington
2
Questions
Asked
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What is the educational path for an athletic trainer?
I'm a junior looking into majoring in sports medicine. What is the educational path to become a certified athletic trainer? How long does it take from college to being fully qualified for the field? Why do some schools have 2 year programs and some are 5 years?
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2 answers
Danuta Charland, PhD, MCJ, CAGS
Pre-Health Academic Advisor
20
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Danuta’s Answer
Here's your enhanced, easy-to-follow guide on becoming a certified athletic trainer (ATC):
1. Start by earning a Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field such as Athletic Training, Exercise Science, Human Physiology, or Health Science. This degree will provide you with the foundation you need for the athletic trainer profession. Make sure your coursework includes key subjects like anatomy, physiology, biology, and other health science-related courses.
2. Confirm that your chosen program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). This accreditation ensures the quality of your education.
3. From 2022 onwards, a Master's Degree in Athletic Training (MSAT) is a requirement for entry-level athletic training. Some bachelor's programs offer an accelerated path to a master's degree, so check if this option is available to you.
4. Gain practical experience through extracurricular clinical experiences. This hands-on training, often included in accredited programs, allows you to learn directly from a certified athletic trainer.
5. Prepare for and pass the Board of Certification (BOC) Exam. Registration for the BOC Certification Exam is a crucial step in becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC).
6. Check your state's specific requirements for practicing as an athletic trainer. Most states in the US require you to have a valid license or registration.
7. Keep your certification up to date by completing continuing education units (CEUs) every two years, as required by the BOC.
8. If you're interested in further specialization, consider pursuing advanced certifications or degrees in areas like Strength and Conditioning or Sports Nutrition. While this step is optional, it can help you stand out in your field.
1. Start by earning a Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field such as Athletic Training, Exercise Science, Human Physiology, or Health Science. This degree will provide you with the foundation you need for the athletic trainer profession. Make sure your coursework includes key subjects like anatomy, physiology, biology, and other health science-related courses.
2. Confirm that your chosen program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). This accreditation ensures the quality of your education.
3. From 2022 onwards, a Master's Degree in Athletic Training (MSAT) is a requirement for entry-level athletic training. Some bachelor's programs offer an accelerated path to a master's degree, so check if this option is available to you.
4. Gain practical experience through extracurricular clinical experiences. This hands-on training, often included in accredited programs, allows you to learn directly from a certified athletic trainer.
5. Prepare for and pass the Board of Certification (BOC) Exam. Registration for the BOC Certification Exam is a crucial step in becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC).
6. Check your state's specific requirements for practicing as an athletic trainer. Most states in the US require you to have a valid license or registration.
7. Keep your certification up to date by completing continuing education units (CEUs) every two years, as required by the BOC.
8. If you're interested in further specialization, consider pursuing advanced certifications or degrees in areas like Strength and Conditioning or Sports Nutrition. While this step is optional, it can help you stand out in your field.
Zen Morgan MAT LAT ATC PES
Athletic Trainer
2
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Zen’s Answer
You have to get a Masters degree in Athletic Training from a CAATE accredited program.
Do some research and look at the prerequisites for different masters programs you are interested in. Pick an undergraduate degree path that will fit those prerequisites.
Volunteer with your high school athletic trainer if you have one.
Some schools are 2 years because you have to have a 4year degree first, then it’s a 2 year masters program. Others are 5 years because they are a combined undergraduate and graduate program. So if you go straight through you can be a certified athletic trainer in 5-6 years depending on the program
Do some research and look at the prerequisites for different masters programs you are interested in. Pick an undergraduate degree path that will fit those prerequisites.
Volunteer with your high school athletic trainer if you have one.
Some schools are 2 years because you have to have a 4year degree first, then it’s a 2 year masters program. Others are 5 years because they are a combined undergraduate and graduate program. So if you go straight through you can be a certified athletic trainer in 5-6 years depending on the program