By Kaitlyn Donohoe, ATC
Nature of the Work: Athletic training is an allied health profession that pulls from several domains of knowledge and skills. An athletic trainer can work in many settings, such as an industrial setting, physical therapy clinic, high school, doctor’s office, performance enhancement center, or college/university. Athletic trainers specialize in the prevention, evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation of athletic injuries, as well as first aid and emergency care. In addition, athletic trainers often take on roles in performance enhancement, nutrition counseling, and screening for illness and mental health concerns.
Athletic trainers work closely with physicians, chiropractors, dieticians, physical therapists, sport psychology consultants, and strength and conditioning coaches to provide for the wellbeing of athletes and physically active individuals.
Outlook: Athletic training is growing in popularity across many settings, including physical therapy clinics, high schools, colleges, professional teams, as well as industrial and corporate settings.
Education and Training: Athletic Trainers get a bachelor’s degree from a nationally accredited Athletic Training Education Program. This education includes course work as well as clinical rotations. Upon completing a bachelor’s degree, athletic trainers must pass the national certification exam. The athletic trainer must then fulfill the state’s requirements to practice, usually by obtaining a license. More than 70% of athletic trainers go on to get a Master’ and or Doctorate degree.
Average Salary: 39,000-66,000 per year
Associations:
National Athletic Trainers’ Association
www.nata.org
2952 Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, TX 75247
Phone: (214) 637-6282
Fax: (214) 637-2206