Education
To become an athletic trainer you must complete the following:
Graduate from a CAATE accredited athletic training program
Pass the Board of Certification Exam
Hold a current certification in Emergency Cardiac Care (ECC)
PRogram choices
Master’s Programs
Athletic Training programs began the transition to a master’s degree requirement in 2022, so all candidates must have a master’s degree in athletic training in order to become certified. The two common programs available for the master’s route are a 3 year undergraduate + 2 year master’s program, or the traditional 2 year entry level master’s program.
The professional degree change decision was made after extensive research done by the Athletic Training Strategic Alliance to raise the educational standard to align better with other health care practitioners like physical therapists, physician assistants, and physicians.
Post graduate options
Certified Internships are similar to GA positions in that the AT is newly certified and looking to gain experience. However, certified interns typically are not enrolled in additional degree programs while in their position. Certified intern positions are typically with colleges and professional sports teams, and are a way for new athletic trainers to develop relationships and expertise in their desired practice setting. Certified intern positions are most often paid, and as the degree change continues, certified intern positions will replace GA positions in most collegiate settings.
CAATE residency programs do not coincide with any degree work specifically, however, they do provide advanced learning in special areas and may include certificates based on coursework completed.