How to Become a Certified Athletic Trainer (Training for Triumph)
If you’ve ever dreamed of enhancing athletes’ performance or wondered what it takes to become a certified athletic trainer, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as a certified athletic trainer. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can help you get there.
- How to land a job as a certified athletic trainer.
So, whether you’re new to sports science or a seasoned fitness enthusiast looking to upskill, stay tuned.
We’re about to unravel the blueprint to become a certified athletic trainer.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a Certified Athletic Trainer
Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
To become a Certified Athletic Trainer, you must first obtain a Bachelor’s Degree, typically in Athletic Training or a related field such as Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Sports Medicine.
This coursework will provide foundational knowledge in human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and injury prevention.
The bachelor’s program will also expose you to practical, hands-on training experiences where you’ll learn to evaluate, diagnose, and treat sports-related injuries.
Most programs also require students to complete clinical rotations under the supervision of a licensed athletic trainer, which offers you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting.
When choosing a program, it is important to ensure it is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
Only graduates from CAATE-accredited programs are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam, which is required to become a Certified Athletic Trainer.
During your bachelor’s program, you may have the opportunity to specialize in an area of interest, such as rehabilitation, sports nutrition, or strength and conditioning.
These specialties can provide additional career opportunities and make you more competitive in the job market.
Step 3: Complete an Accredited Athletic Training Education Program
In order to become a Certified Athletic Trainer, you need to complete an accredited athletic training education program.
These are programs that are specifically designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for this profession, and they are recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
These programs can be found at colleges and universities across the country.
In these programs, students learn about subjects such as injury prevention, recognition and evaluation of injuries, health care administration, therapeutic modalities, and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses.
They also gain hands-on experience by working with athletes and patients under the supervision of experienced athletic trainers.
These athletic training education programs usually lead to a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Some programs may require prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, or kinesiology courses before enrollment, so be sure to check the requirements of each program you are interested in.
Upon completion of an accredited program, you will be eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) Examination.
Passing this exam is the final step to becoming a certified athletic trainer.
Remember to plan your career path based on your passion and interest within the athletic training field.
It could range from working with professional athletes to helping with injury recovery in hospitals or clinics.
Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience through Clinical Rotations
As part of your educational journey towards becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer, gaining hands-on experience through clinical rotations is crucial.
These rotations typically occur during your bachelor’s or master’s degree program and provide invaluable real-world experience.
They offer a chance for you to apply what you have learned in the classroom in a practical setting.
You may have rotations in a variety of settings including high schools, colleges, professional sports organizations, clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation facilities.
This allows you to gain exposure to a wide range of patient populations and conditions.
During these rotations, you will be supervised by experienced athletic trainers and other health care professionals.
These mentors will guide you and provide feedback on your performance, helping you to improve your skills and competencies.
In addition to honing your technical skills, clinical rotations also help you develop soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
These skills are vital in this profession as you’ll regularly interact with athletes, coaches, physicians, and other healthcare providers.
Remember, your performance during these rotations can have a significant impact on your future employment opportunities.
Showcase your dedication, curiosity, and commitment to learning.
This is your chance to make a lasting impression and secure strong professional references for future job applications.
Step 5: Become Certified in CPR/AED and First Aid
As an aspiring certified athletic trainer, you should obtain certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), and First Aid.
These are crucial skills required for this profession as they allow you to respond promptly and effectively in emergency situations during training or games.
Athletic Trainers deal with injuries and health-related issues on a daily basis, hence, this certification stands as an essential requirement.
There are several accredited organizations that offer CPR/AED and First Aid certification courses, such as the American Heart Association and the Red Cross.
These courses typically involve a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on practice, and they may be available both online and offline.
After successfully completing the course, you’ll receive a certificate that serves as proof of your competency in these life-saving procedures.
Keep in mind that these certifications have an expiry date, typically every two years, hence you need to ensure your certifications stay current by retaking the course before the expiry date.
The recertification process ensures you remain updated with the most recent practices and techniques in providing CPR/AED and First Aid.
Step 6: Pass the Board of Certification (BOC) Examination
Once you’ve obtained your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in athletic training, the next crucial step is passing the Board of Certification (BOC) Examination.
This examination is a comprehensive test that evaluates your knowledge and skills in the field of athletic training.
The BOC exam is recognized nationally and is a standard credential that many employers require for athletic trainer job positions.
The exam is divided into different sections, each focusing on various aspects of athletic training such as injury prevention, clinical evaluation and diagnosis, immediate and emergency care, treatment, rehabilitation, and organizational and professional health and wellbeing.
To prepare for the BOC exam, you should review all the material from your degree program and consider investing in study guides or prep courses specifically designed for this examination.
Practice exams are also available, providing a valuable opportunity to become familiar with the format of the test and identify areas where you may need additional study.
Passing the BOC Examination not only validates your knowledge and skills but also demonstrates your commitment to the profession.
It signifies that you are ready to apply your expertise to provide quality healthcare for athletes and physically active individuals.
Remember to maintain your certification, you’ll need to continue your education and adhere to the BOC’s standards of professional practice.
Step 7: Obtain State Licensure (if required)
In order to work as a Certified Athletic Trainer, you may be required to obtain state licensure, depending on the regulations in your location.
This process typically involves passing a state licensure exam after completing your certification and degree program.
The state licensure exam often includes both written and practical components, testing your knowledge of athletic training theory as well as your practical skills in treating and preventing athletic injuries.
You will also likely need to complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain your licensure over time.
Be sure to verify the specific licensure requirements in your state as the process and requirements can vary.
If your state does not require licensure, it’s still a good idea to obtain certification as it will make you more competitive in the job market.
It is important to note that getting certified and being licensed are not the same thing.
Certification typically involves passing a national exam and meeting specific education and training requirements.
Licensure, on the other hand, is a state’s grant of legal authority to practice a profession within a designated scope of practice.
Also remember that should you choose to move or work in a different state, you will need to check the specific licensure requirements for that state and may need to take another exam.
Step 8: Seek Employment Opportunities
As a certified athletic trainer, you can explore a range of employment opportunities in different sectors.
You may consider working for secondary schools, colleges and universities, where you can provide healthcare to student athletes.
Professional sports teams also hire athletic trainers to help players stay in optimal shape and recover from injuries.
Healthcare settings like physical therapy clinics and rehabilitation centers also provide opportunities for certified athletic trainers to work with a diverse group of patients.
In recent years, opportunities have also arisen in corporate settings and the military, where athletic trainers help individuals maintain physical fitness and prevent injuries.
To find employment opportunities, you should leverage your professional network, attend industry conferences, and use job search websites.
Be ready to showcase your skills, experience, and certifications during the job application process.
You should keep your resume up-to-date and prepare for interviews by anticipating questions about your practical experience and knowledge in athletic training.
Finally, you should be open to relocate, as the job demand for athletic trainers can vary by region.
Some areas may have more opportunities in certain sectors than others.
For example, a city with many professional sports teams may have more opportunities for athletic trainers than a rural area.
Remember that your first job might not be your dream job, but it can provide you with valuable experience and open doors for future opportunities.
Keep learning and gaining new experiences, and you’ll continue to grow in your career as an athletic trainer.
Step 9: Consider Pursuing a Master’s Degree
If you aspire to climb further up the ladder in the field of athletic training or want to specialize in a particular area, obtaining a master’s degree in Athletic Training or a related field might be a beneficial step.
Many athletic trainers choose to pursue a master’s degree to expand their knowledge and expertise in areas such as injury prevention, rehabilitative techniques, or sports nutrition.
While you’re studying for your master’s degree, you’ll have the opportunity to dive deeper into areas of athletic training that interest you.
Additionally, graduate programs often offer research opportunities, allowing you to contribute to the field’s body of knowledge.
Having a master’s degree can also open more job opportunities, particularly in collegiate and professional sports settings where advanced degrees are often preferred.
Additionally, it can increase your earning potential as employers often pay higher salaries to those with advanced degrees.
However, keep in mind that obtaining a master’s degree is a big commitment, both in terms of time and finances.
So, it’s important to consider your long-term career goals and personal circumstances before making this decision.
Step 10: Participate in Continued Education and Maintain Certification
As a certified athletic trainer, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and techniques in the field.
This is why participation in continuous education is a necessary step.
Many professional organizations and institutions offer workshops, seminars, and courses that can help you maintain and expand your knowledge and skills.
Maintaining your certification is also essential.
The Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) requires athletic trainers to recertify every three years.
To do this, you must complete a certain amount of continuing education units (CEUs) and adhere to the BOC’s Standards of Professional Practice.
Furthermore, some states may have their own additional requirements for maintaining licensure.
Be sure to check with your state’s Athletic Trainer licensing board to be fully aware of these requirements.
Moreover, continuing education and recertification not only ensure that you remain competent and efficient in your profession but also increase your chances of career advancement.
You might also consider gaining additional certifications in related areas such as strength training or nutrition, which can diversify your expertise and enhance your value in the sports and fitness industry.
Step 11: Join Professional Associations
As a certified athletic trainer, it can be beneficial to join professional associations related to your field.
These associations can provide resources, networking opportunities, and professional development that can assist in advancing your career.
Examples of such associations are the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), and the Athletic Trainers’ Osteopathic Manual Therapy Association (ATOMA).
Joining such associations can allow you to engage in activities such as attending conferences, participating in workshops, accessing research materials, and connecting with other professionals in your field.
In addition to providing valuable continuing education opportunities, these associations often have job boards and other resources that can assist in job search and career advancement.
Membership can also enhance your credibility as a professional and demonstrate your commitment to staying up-to-date in your field.
Remember, active participation is key when being part of these associations.
Volunteering for leadership roles or committee positions can also provide you with the chance to contribute to your profession and gain recognition among your peers.
Ultimately, joining a professional association is an important step in growing your career as a certified athletic trainer.
Step 12: Develop Specialties and Advanced Skills
As a certified athletic trainer, it is crucial to further develop your skills and identify areas you wish to specialize in.
This can be in response to the specific needs of the athletes you work with or to broaden your career opportunities.
For example, you may want to specialize in injury prevention strategies, rehabilitation techniques for specific sports or conditions, or working with specific populations such as children or the elderly.
You can develop these specialties by participating in advanced training programs, seminars, workshops, or by earning additional certifications.
For instance, you might choose to earn a specialty certification in Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Sports Nutrition, or Physical Therapy.
Continued learning and specialization is a key part of being a successful athletic trainer.
It will not only help you provide the best care for your athletes, but it will also increase your value as a professional and open up potential avenues for career advancement.
Remember, the field of sports medicine is constantly evolving, so it’s crucial to stay up-to-date and continuously improve your skills and knowledge base.
Furthermore, developing strong communication and leadership skills are also essential as you will often work in a team environment and need to coordinate with other healthcare professionals, coaches, and athletes.
These skills can be honed through on-the-job experience and professional development courses.
Keep in mind that building specialties and advanced skills is a lifelong process that requires dedication, a willingness to learn, and a passion for helping athletes perform at their best.
Step 13: Build a Professional Network
Building a professional network is a critical step for a Certified Athletic Trainer.
This can be done by attending industry conferences, participating in professional organizations such as the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), and seeking out mentors in the field.
Engaging with peers and experienced professionals will provide opportunities for career advancement, learning, and collaboration.
Networking can also involve developing relationships with health care providers, athletes, coaches, and sports administrators, as these individuals can provide referrals, opportunities for professional partnerships, and insights into the industry.
Remember to be proactive and intentional in your networking efforts.
Join discussion groups on social media platforms like LinkedIn, attend webinars and workshops, and share your experiences and insights with your peers.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of informational interviews with established professionals in the field.
These connections can give you valuable advice on your career, job prospects, and new developments in the athletic training field.
Finally, as you grow in your career, remember to pay it forward by supporting new professionals entering the field.
Your experiences can help guide them as they begin their careers as Certified Athletic Trainers.
Step 14: Stay Informed on Advances in Athletic Health Care
As a certified athletic trainer, you need to keep abreast of the latest advancements in the field of athletic health care.
This is important because it allows you to provide the best possible care for your athletes, using the most up-to-date techniques and methodologies.
You can stay informed by reading relevant journals, attending conferences, participating in webinars, joining professional associations and networking with other professionals in your field.
You might consider subscribing to publications like The Journal of Athletic Training, The American Journal of Sports Medicine, or The International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, among others.
Moreover, you could join professional organizations like the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
These organizations often offer conferences, webinars, and other educational opportunities to help keep you informed about the latest research and trends in athletic health care.
Also, consider completing continuing education units (CEUs) periodically.
Not only will this help maintain your certification, but it also ensures that you stay up-to-date with the changing landscape of athletic health care.
Staying informed on advances in athletic health care is a crucial aspect of your role as a certified athletic trainer as this field is continuously evolving.
By keeping yourself updated, you can provide the best care possible to your athletes and help them reach their full potential.
Step 15: Enhance Your Resume and Interview Skills
As a Certified Athletic Trainer, it’s crucial to continuously develop your resume and enhance your interview skills to stand out in the competitive job market.
Highlight your academic achievements, certifications, clinical experiences, and any relevant workshops or seminars you’ve attended.
As a healthcare professional, your ability to work within a team, your problem-solving skills, and your experience dealing with various athletic injuries should be emphasized.
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted cover letter.
Use it as an opportunity to show your passion for athletic training and how you can bring value to the organization.
Tailor it to each specific job application, detailing why you are attracted to that particular role and organization.
In addition to your resume, your interview skills play a significant role in landing a job.
Prepare for common interview questions and rehearse your responses.
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your answers, giving specific examples from your past experiences.
Demonstrating your knowledge, skills, and passion for the profession through your responses is key.
Always remember to send a follow-up thank you note after your interview.
This helps in maintaining a positive impression and keeps you in the minds of the hiring committee.
It’s also an additional opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the role and the organization.
Lastly, keep in mind that professional development is a lifelong journey.
Always stay updated with the latest techniques and research in athletic training to ensure you are providing the best care possible, and don’t hesitate to add these learnings to your resume as you progress in your career.
Step 16: Commit to Professional Ethics and Responsibilities
As a Certified Athletic Trainer, it is crucial to commit to professional ethics and responsibilities.
This career entails dealing with athletes’ health and wellbeing, hence the need for the utmost professionalism, fairness, and dedication.
In your journey towards becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer, you will be required to follow a specific code of ethics outlined by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA).
This code includes principles such as respecting the rights, welfare, and dignity of all individuals, maintaining a high level of competence and integrity, and ensuring your professional conduct reflects positively on the profession.
Adherence to these ethical guidelines is not only a requirement for certification and membership in professional bodies but also critical in earning the trust and respect of athletes, coaches, and other healthcare professionals.
In addition, you must be committed to lifelong learning and staying updated on the latest research, developments, and techniques in sports medicine and athletic training.
This is achieved by attending professional development programs, seminars, and workshops, and participating in continuing education opportunities.
This commitment guarantees your competence and ensures that you provide the best care to the athletes you work with.
Lastly, in your role as a Certified Athletic Trainer, you will be expected to take responsibility for the athletes’ health, making decisions that prioritize their wellbeing, and ensuring they receive the most appropriate care when injured.
Certified Athletic Trainer Roles and Responsibilities
Certified Athletic Trainers play a crucial role in preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses.
They work with individuals of all ages, from young athletes to professional sportspeople and even the elderly.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Injury Prevention and Risk Management
- Educate athletes on how to reduce their risk of injuries.
- Develop and implement injury prevention programs.
- Ensure a safe environment for sports and exercise activities.
Injury Assessment and Evaluation
- Diagnose and evaluate injuries and illnesses related to sports and physical activities.
- Perform physical examinations and functional tests.
- Refer athletes to appropriate medical professionals when necessary.
Treatment and Rehabilitation
- Develop and implement rehabilitation programs for injured athletes.
- Use therapeutic modalities such as ice, heat, electricity, or exercise to treat injuries.
- Monitor athletes’ progress during rehabilitation.
Emergency Care
- Provide immediate care for acute injuries and medical emergencies.
- Perform CPR and first aid.
- Coordinate emergency medical care and evacuation when necessary.
Organization and Administration
- Manage athletic training facilities and equipment.
- Keep records of injuries, treatment plans, and progress reports.
- Develop and manage budgets for athletic training programs.
Professional Development
- Stay updated with the latest developments in sports medicine and athletic training.
- Participate in continuing education activities.
- Maintain certification and licensure.
Communication and Collaboration
- Communicate effectively with athletes, coaches, parents, and medical professionals.
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals in the care of athletes.
- Advocate for the health and well-being of athletes.
Educational Services
- Provide education and training to athletes, coaches, parents, and the community on sports safety and health-related issues.
- Advocate for safe and healthy sports practices.
Research
- Participate in research related to sports medicine and athletic training.
- Use evidence-based practice in the care of athletes.
What Does a Certified Athletic Trainer Do?
Certified Athletic Trainers are healthcare professionals who collaborate with physicians to provide preventative services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions.
They work in a variety of settings like schools, colleges, professional sports teams, hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, and corporate settings.
They can also be self-employed as consultants.
Their job primarily involves recognizing, preventing, and treating musculoskeletal injuries including sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations.
Certified Athletic Trainers are skilled in manual therapy techniques, therapeutic modalities, and therapeutic exercise to rehabilitate injured athletes and patients, and are also responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive rehabilitation programs for injured athletes.
They work closely with athletes to educate them on injury prevention, recognition, and management.
Additionally, they may also provide nutritional advice and promote overall wellness to enhance an athlete’s performance.
Certified Athletic Trainers not only respond to emergency situations during sports events but also perform clinical evaluations and assessments to determine an athlete’s readiness to play.
Their role requires them to maintain accurate records of injuries, treatment plans, and progress reports, and communicate these to physicians, coaches, and athletes as necessary.
Essential Certified Athletic Trainer Skills
- Communication: Athletic trainers interact daily with athletes, coaches, and medical professionals. They need to effectively communicate treatment plans, injury prevention strategies, and health advice.
- Physical Fitness: Athletic trainers must have a high level of physical fitness to demonstrate exercises, assist athletes, and handle emergency situations.
- First Aid and Emergency Care: They are often the first responders when injuries occur. Knowledge of first aid, CPR, and other emergency procedures is crucial.
- Rehabilitation Techniques: Athletic trainers should be proficient in various rehabilitation techniques to help athletes recover from injuries, including physiotherapy and strength training.
- Sport-Specific Knowledge: Understanding the demands and risks of different sports helps trainers create effective injury prevention and treatment plans.
- Nutrition: Trainers advise athletes on proper nutrition to enhance performance and recovery. This requires understanding the relationship between diet and athletic performance.
- Injury Assessment: Trainers must accurately assess injuries and determine appropriate treatment plans. This involves a strong understanding of anatomy and kinesiology.
- Record Keeping: Athletic trainers need to maintain detailed records of injuries, treatments, and progress. This requires strong organizational and documentation skills.
- Problem-solving: Athletic trainers face diverse challenges, from diagnosing injuries to devising customized treatment plans. Ability to analyze issues and develop effective solutions is key.
- Empathy: Working with injured athletes requires empathy and understanding. Trainers must be able to provide emotional support alongside physical care.
- Professional Ethics: Trainers must uphold professional ethics, including maintaining confidentiality, avoiding conflicts of interest, and providing care without discrimination.
- Continuous Learning: Athletic trainers need to keep up-to-date with the latest research, treatments, and practices in sports medicine. This requires a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Teamwork: Collaboration is essential in this role. Trainers work with a team of coaches, athletes, and healthcare professionals to optimize the athletes’ health and performance.
- Adaptability: Athletic trainers should be able to adapt to different situations, from changing game conditions to dealing with different types of injuries.
- Leadership: Often, trainers are in a position of authority when it comes to athlete health. They need to be able to make tough decisions and guide others.
Certified Athletic Trainer Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Entry-Level Athletic Trainer
Your journey typically begins as an Entry-Level Athletic Trainer.
At this stage, you’re learning the ins and outs of athletic training, such as preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses.
Here are some tips to succeed in this role:
- Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest in sports medicine and athletic training techniques.
- Networking: Building relationships with athletes, coaches, and other medical professionals can be greatly beneficial.
- Hands-On Practice: Spend as much time as possible treating injuries and improving your skills under supervision.
The Ascent: Athletic Trainer
With experience and mastery over basic skills, you will transition to the role of an Athletic Trainer.
Your tasks could include developing training programs, rehabilitating injured athletes, and educating people on how to prevent sports-related injuries.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Interpersonal Skills: Develop strong relationships with athletes, helping them trust and follow your advice.
- Problem-Solving: Apply your knowledge to come up with effective treatment plans for various injuries.
- Organization: Keep meticulous records of injuries, treatments, and progress for each athlete you work with.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Athletic Trainer
As a Senior Athletic Trainer, you’re recognized for your expertise and leadership within the team.
You may be responsible for managing a team of trainers, making key decisions about treatment plans, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals.
To excel in this role:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience with junior trainers.
- Strategic Planning: Develop long-term training and rehabilitation programs for athletes.
- Leadership: Lead by example, inspire others with your dedication and commitment.
Beyond the Horizon: Head Athletic Trainer and Beyond
As your career progresses, you might step into the role of a Head Athletic Trainer, overseeing a team of athletic trainers and other healthcare professionals.
You might also move into administrative or academic roles, or even run your own practice.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
- Advanced Knowledge: Stay ahead of the curve by continually learning about new advancements in sports medicine and athletic training.
- Entrepreneurial Skills: If you’re running your own practice, you’ll need to develop business acumen, too.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Sports Medicine
At the top of your career ladder, you might find yourself as a Director of Sports Medicine, where you’ll be responsible for overseeing all medical and training operations for a sports organization or a university’s athletic department.
You’ll make key decisions, manage a large team, and shape the overall health and wellness strategy for your athletes.
Certified Athletic Trainer Salary
Entry-Level Certified Athletic Trainer
- Median Salary: $37,000 – $45,000 per year
- Entry-level certified athletic trainers usually have 0-2 years of experience and hold a bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training or related fields. They are responsible for providing initial care to athletes and patients, helping prevent and treat injuries.
Mid-Level Certified Athletic Trainer
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $55,000 per year
- Mid-level certified athletic trainers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex responsibilities such as designing and implementing rehabilitation programs for athletes, and coordinating with physicians and therapists.
Senior Certified Athletic Trainer
- Median Salary: $55,000 – $70,000 per year
- Senior certified athletic trainers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for managing the overall athletic training programs, leading teams, making strategic decisions, and mentoring junior trainers.
Lead Certified Athletic Trainer / Athletic Training Manager
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $90,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve leadership, management of athletic training programs, and decision-making related to athlete care and injury prevention strategies.
Director of Athletic Training / VP of Sports Medicine
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $120,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep expertise in athletic training and often involve setting strategies for athlete care, injury prevention, and rehabilitation programs for a sports team or an institution.
Certified Athletic Trainer Work Environment
Certified Athletic Trainers typically work in various settings such as high schools, colleges, universities, professional sports teams, and healthcare organizations.
These professionals may also find employment opportunities at physical therapy clinics, hospitals, military bases, and industrial environments.
The work schedule of a Certified Athletic Trainer often depends on the sporting events and training schedules they are involved in, which may include irregular hours, weekends, and holidays.
Certified Athletic Trainers are often on their feet and may need to run onto a field or court to provide emergency care.
They are also involved in the administrative work related to the athletes’ health and recovery.
After gaining substantial experience, a Certified Athletic Trainer may choose to specialize in a specific sport or work in a leadership role within a larger healthcare or educational institution.
FAQs About Becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer
What is needed to become a certified athletic trainer?
To become a certified athletic trainer, you need a strong foundation in sports medicine and healthcare.
This is usually accomplished by earning a bachelor’s degree in athletic training, kinesiology, or a related field, followed by a master’s degree in athletic training.
Key skills include knowledge of injury prevention, emergency care, and therapeutic intervention.
Additionally, you must pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam for Athletic Trainers.
Alongside your academic skills, you should also have strong interpersonal, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
How long does it take to become a certified athletic trainer?
The time it takes to become a certified athletic trainer can vary, depending on the educational path you choose.
Typically, it takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree, followed by two years for a master’s degree in athletic training.
After graduation, you must pass the BOC exam to become certified.
Including the time spent gaining practical experience through internships or practicums during your studies, you can expect to spend about six to seven years preparing for this career.
Can I become a certified athletic trainer without a degree?
No, you cannot become a certified athletic trainer without a degree.
The Board of Certification (BOC) for Athletic Trainers requires that candidates hold at least a master’s degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) to be eligible to sit for the certification exam.
Is being a certified athletic trainer a stressful job?
Being a certified athletic trainer can be stressful at times due to the nature of the role.
Trainers often work in fast-paced environments such as sports events, where injuries can occur unpredictably.
They may also work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to support practices and games.
However, many trainers find the job rewarding due to the positive impact they can make on an athlete’s health and performance.
What are the prospects for certified athletic trainers in the next decade?
The job outlook for certified athletic trainers is promising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting much faster than average job growth over the next decade.
This growth is due to an increased awareness of sports-related injuries and the importance of prevention and treatment.
As a result, opportunities in schools, colleges, sports teams, and healthcare facilities are expected to grow.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Setting out on your journey to become a certified athletic trainer is a remarkable endeavor, but it’s undeniably fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and tenacity, you are poised to make a substantial difference in the field of sports and fitness.
The road may be arduous, but the opportunities are endless. Your dedication could lead to the next game-changing breakthrough in athletic health and performance.
So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in knowledge. Network with experts in the field. And most significantly, never stop honing your skills.
Because the world of sports is waiting for what you can offer.
And if you’re searching for personalized advice on kick-starting or advancing your career as a certified athletic trainer, take a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
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