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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Athletic Trainers.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Athletic Trainers.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 18%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Assess and report the progress of recovering athletes to coaches or physicians.
Care for athletic injuries, using physical therapy equipment, techniques, or medication.
Conduct an initial assessment of an athlete's injury or illness to provide emergency or continued care and to determine whether they should be referred to physicians for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
Becoming an athletic trainer is a rewarding career path that combines a passion for sports with the expertise of healthcare. If you're considering this profession, follow these steps to start your career:
Athletic trainers are healthcare professionals who work with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries. Your role will include:
To become an athletic trainer, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited athletic training program. Look for programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
While not always required, a master's degree can be beneficial for career advancement. Many employers prefer or require advanced degrees, so consider enrolling in a graduate program that focuses on athletic training or a related field.
Hands-on experience is crucial in this field. During your educational program, you'll likely be required to complete clinical rotations that provide real-world experience under the supervision of a certified athletic trainer.
Upon completing your degree, you must pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam for athletic trainers to become certified. The exam covers:
Most states require athletic trainers to be licensed or registered. Requirements vary by state, so check with your state's health board or visit the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) for specific information.
Certified athletic trainers must complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain their BOC certification. Additionally, you may need to meet ongoing requirements for state licensure, such as periodic renewal and additional CEUs.
Athletic trainers work in various settings, including:
Networking can open up job opportunities and help you stay current with the latest developments in the field. Join professional organizations such as NATA, attend conferences, and engage with peers in the industry.
By following these steps and committing to continuous learning and professional development, you can build a successful career as an athletic trainer.
To become an athletic trainer, you typically need to:
Yes, certification is generally required to work as an athletic trainer. Requirements include:
Key skills for athletic trainers include:
Athletic trainers can be found in various settings:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of athletic trainers is projected to grow at a rate faster than average for all occupations. Factors contributing to this growth include:
Yes, athletic trainers can choose to specialize in areas such as:
Specialization may require additional education, training, or certification.
Advancement opportunities may include:
Joining professional organizations can offer benefits such as networking opportunities, resources, and professional development. Notable organizations include:
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
By being a part of these communities, you can stay updated on industry trends, access job boards, and attend conferences or workshops.