Best Athletic Training Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Best Athletic Training Programs Table of Contents

1. What is an athletic training degree?
2. Cost of Athletic Training Degrees
3. 2025 Best Programs in Athletic Training
4. Athletic Training Degree Jobs
5. Types of Degrees in Athletic Training
6. Athletic Training Degree Requirements
7. What to Look for in Athletic Training Programs
8. Technological Advancements in Athletic Training
9. How Can Athletic Training Degrees Drive Research and Innovation in Sports Medicine?
10. How can athletic training degrees integrate with broader health fields?
11. Should Athletic Training Education Integrate Public Health Perspectives?
12. Can Complementary Accelerated Certifications Enhance Athletic Training Careers?
13. Exploring Accelerated Learning Pathways in Athletic Training
14. What Role Does Interdisciplinary Collaboration Play in Shaping the Future of Athletic Training?
15. How Can Athletic Training Programs Foster Healthcare Administration Expertise?
16. Can Dual Degrees in Athletic Training and Pharmacy Accelerate Your Healthcare Career?
17. How Do Accreditation and Certification Impact Athletic Training Career Outcomes?

What is an athletic training degree?

Athletic trainer education includes courses and activities that support athletes at all levels, from professionals to aspiring enthusiasts. According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) (n.d.), athletic trainers work with physicians to help avoid, diagnose, and treat acute or chronic injuries, as well as other medical conditions.

Moreover, athletic training is designed to include a variety of topics across medical and science fields. For instance, it may even include courses from degrees in online doctorate in physical therapy or medical office administration online programs, such as health administration, to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems. Apart from that, students will also come across the following topics:

1. Statistics
2. Physiology
3. Kinesiology
4. General Biology
5. Human Anatomy
6. Evaluation in Healthcare
7. Strength and Conditioning
8. Musculoskeletal Evaluation
9. Prevention of Injury and Illness
10. Rehabilitation of Athletic Injuries

What can you do with an athletic training degree?

As of January 2023, there are 56,906 athletic trainers (Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer, 2023, as cited in Sitzler, 2023), and the demand for this profession is seen to grow steadily by 2030. With an athletic trainer degree, individuals can pursue various career and academic paths within sports medicine and healthcare, in particular, RN to DNP programs online.

One common avenue is to become a licensed athletic trainer, providing direct medical care to athletes in schools, colleges, professional sports teams, or sports medicine clinics. Graduates of this program can also pursue roles in hospitals, performing arts centers, and commercial businesses.

Moreover, students are encouraged to pursue further education to build upon foundational knowledge. In a 2015 statement, the Athletic Training (AT) Strategic Alliance, which is composed of established athletic training organizations, decided that the minimum entry-position requirement to become an athletic trainer is a master’s level. Therefore, aspiring professionals must be open to continuing education.

One way to do this is to take up master’s and doctoral degrees in athletic training. Students may also consider taking up additional courses, such as one from a health informatics degree online, because this offers unique opportunities to explore the intersection of healthcare and technology.

Additionally, exploring the question, “What can you do with an exercise science bachelor degree?" reveals a plethora of opportunities. Students learn the science underpinning fitness, wellbeing, and sports performance in this degree. Fitness centers, corporate wellness initiatives, and community health organizations hire graduates. They can also be fitness trainers, exercise physiologists, or sports coaches. The degree prepares students for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other graduate programs.

Cost of Athletic Training Degrees

In this section, we detail the cost of athletic trainer colleges to give aspiring students an idea of the financial considerations associated with pursuing this program. Keep in mind that the total cost of a program is influenced by several factors, including state fees, financial aid or scholarship options, books and equipment, meals and boarding, transportation, and other miscellaneous fees. This is also applicable to online programs such as online public health degrees or bridge ones like ADN to MSN.

How much does it cost to get an athletic training degree?

The average cost of undergraduate programs in in-state colleges for athletic training is $10,378 while out-of-state institutions charge around $28,936 (College Tuition Compare, 2023). Meanwhile, graduate degrees are around $11,290 to $21,075 on average. Moreover, private universities may also have higher tuition costs. Our team compiles the average ranges of total tuition for this program in the figures below.

Is a degree in athletic training worth it?

Pursuing an athletic training major provides students with a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy, injury assessment, and rehabilitation techniques, making it highly worthwhile for those who are passionate about sports and healthcare. Athletic trainers enjoy the perks of working with various sports teams or traveling to tournaments, which allows them to experience new cultures while practicing their profession.

Apart from that, it empowers them to learn about healthcare practices without enrolling in traditional medical programs. Athletic training also presents evolving opportunities in risk management, military and law enforcement, and entertainment, expanding their professional horizons. Advanced credentials and the integration of technology into education also enable them to enhance their skills and pursue higher-level positions.

However, just like any profession, athletic training also has its challenges, including the need for dedication, hard work, and lifelong commitment to professional development. The job can be physically and emotionally demanding, leading to stress, anxiety, and burnout (Oglesby et al., 2020). Therefore, prospective students should carefully assess their passion, ability to handle pressure, and long-term career goals before choosing this program.

2025 Best Programs in Athletic Training

To further guide aspiring students, our team researched the best athletic training schools by diving into credible sources and meticulously evaluating universities. We considered factors such as academic ranking, affordability, accreditations, and reliability to curate a list of top-notch institutions that provide exceptional education and training in the field of athletic training.

1. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University helps aspiring athletic trainers gain both theoretical and practical knowledge and skills needed in a competitive professional industry. It utilizes a variety of hands-on learning methods like clinical rotations, laboratory work, and exposure in rehabilitation centers to further immerse students in the field. Moreover, it enables learners to complete their training with a capstone project focused on research.

1. Program Offered: BS in Athletic Training
2. Program Length: 15 weeks
3. Cost per Credit: $687.50
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. University of Houston

The University of Houston aims to produce competent athletic trainers through its wide array of educational opportunities. It guides learners to apply their skills and knowledge by exposing them to cutting-edge sports medicine technology, research, and collaborations. Furthermore, it helps learners to expand their network through relationship- and connection-building with its educational and healthcare partners.

1. Program Offered: Master of Athletic Training
2. Program Length: Six semesters (three years)
3. Estimated Cost per Semester: $320.00-$978.24 (per credit hour)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 57
5. Accreditation: CAATE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. University of Michigan

The University of Michigan is one of the colleges with athletic training programs that enable students to excel in the field of sports medicine. Its small class sizes encourage learners to confidently put their skills and knowledge to the test through class participation and group activities. Moreover, it empowers students to build professional relationships with peers and teachers through supervised training and mentorships in the field.

1. Program Offered: MS in Athletic Training
2. Program Length: Two years
3. Estimated Total Cost: $52,098 (in-state), $78,328 (out-of-state)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 56
5. Accreditation: CAATE, HLC

4. University of Central Florida

With its evidence-based and patient-centered education, the University of Central Florida prepares students to become successful athletic trainers. It encourages students to immerse in real-world situations through its supervised clinical field experience and hands-on laboratory hours. Apart from that, it also helps learners gain the necessary training they need in various settings through active research, collaborative coursework, and interactive classroom activities.

1. Program Offered: Master of Athletic Training
2. Program Length: Two years
3. Cost per Credit: $369.65 (in-state), $1,194.05 (out-of-state)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 65
5. Accreditation: CAATE, SACSCOC

5. Ohio University

Ohio University’s doctorate program features patient-focused care and education that is grounded on evidence. It empowers learners to choose between a clinical or research track, both of which help them gain the top skills needed in any field of athletic training. Moreover, it also allows students to complete their residency, contribute to field research, and work with professionals in the field through interdisciplinary measures.

1. Program Offered: Doctor of Athletic Training
2. Program Length: Two years
3. Cost per Credit: $528 (in-state), $547 (out-of-state)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 42
5. Accreditation: CAATE, HLC

Athletic Training Degree Jobs

In this section, we provide a list of careers that athletic training graduates can pursue to utilize their skills and knowledge in the field. In addition, we will discuss the average salary of athletic training professionals, as well as the job outlook, to help students explore their career pathways.

Is athletic training in high demand?

Data reveal that the athletic training profession has a job outlook that is much higher than average for other jobs. In particular, athletic trainers will see a 17% change in employment, around 2,500 opportunities each year, from 2021 to 2031 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). Variations in career outlook can be attributed to several factors, including the growth of the sports industry, physical activities across ages, and recovery from the pandemic.

What jobs can you get with an athletic training degree?

As previously mentioned, pursuing athletic training programs opens a plethora of choices for employment. In this section, we will discuss the most common careers graduates and aspiring students can consider.

Professional Athletic Trainers

They specialize in caring for injuries related to physical activity and sports. Their responsibilities include implementing injury prevention strategies, providing immediate medical care during practices or games, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals. They work with athletes and active individuals to optimize performance, prevent injuries, and promote overall well-being.

Physician Assistants

They conduct physical examinations, diagnose illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and develop treatment plans. They also record their patients’ medical history, prescribe medication, and perform minor surgical procedures, depending on the type of their practice. They need to be under the supervision of physicians or surgeons and work interdependently with them to meet the needs of their patients.

Sports Coaches

Their main responsibility is to provide guidance, instruction, and motivation to athletes and sports teams. They also create training programs, strategize game plans, and provide constructive feedback to help athletes reach their full potential. This is one of the professions derived from sports psychology careers and opportunities which is why they can also contribute to the mental well-being of players.

Physical Therapists

Their priority is developing personalized treatment plans to improve patients’ mobility, reduce pain, and restore or enhance their physical function. They specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating individuals with physical impairments or injuries through a variety of exercises, therapy treatments, and strategies. Finally, they educate patients on injury prevention and self-management techniques to promote long-term well-being.

Performing Arts Athletic Trainers

They are specialized athletic trainers who provide support and care to performers, such as dancers, musicians, acrobats, and similar artists. They focus on the unique physical demands and injuries associated with the performing arts industry. These athletic trainers assess and treat injuries, develop conditioning programs, and provide preventative measures to enhance performance and minimize the risk of injuries.

What kind of salary can I earn with an athletic training degree?

On average, graduates of athletic training programs earn $57,810 every year while the pay range falls between $39,670 and $78,000 (BLS, 2023). Moreover, annual compensation is usually influenced by several indicators, like the level of experience, location, and work type or setting.

In addition, obtaining other qualifications, such as additional courses, certifications, and advanced degrees, can impact earning potential. For instance, taking a few courses from an online public health degree or pursuing specialized certifications, such as one in orthopedics, can lead to better salary and promotion opportunities.

Types of Degrees in Athletic Training

In this section, we will explore the different types of athletic training programs to help aspiring students choose which one suits their educational and career goals. We will also briefly discuss what students learn in each type and the entry-level jobs graduates can get with that degree.

What kinds of athletic training degrees are there?

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic Training

Average Time to Complete: Four years

Bachelor’s degrees in athletic training programs offer well-rounded learning to students through coursework, collaborative projects, and other hands-on experiences. Students learn about therapeutic modalities, injury psychology, and general medicine. However, due to the AT Strategic Alliance’s statement on degree requirements, most universities are no longer accepting baccalaureate degree program enrollees after Fall 2022 (CAATE, n.d.). While there are a few institutions that still offer this degree, undergraduate students are also encouraged to take up related programs like kinesiology or exercise science.

Entry-level Jobs: Associate Athletic Trainer, Assistant Sports Coach, Health Clinic Staff

2. Master’s Degree in Athletic Training

Average Time to Complete: Two to three years

Athletic training programs for master’s degrees feature specialized training and in-depth knowledge. These build upon the foundational concepts and provide students with a deeper understanding of sports performance enhancement. Through coursework, research, and practical experiences, students develop advanced skills in acute care in athletic training, therapeutic interventions, and immersive clinical experience. Alternatively, students can also consider getting a master’s in sports management online, which tackles the business and management side of sports.

Entry-level Jobs: Professional Athletic Trainer, Public Safety Athletic Trainer, Occupational Therapist

3. Doctoral Degree in Athletic Training

Average Time to Complete: Two to four years

Doctoral degrees are designed for individuals seeking to attain the highest level of expertise. These programs emphasize research and advanced clinical practice to prepare graduates for roles as educators, researchers, and leaders. Students taking doctoral athletic training programs will encounter topics like advanced injury risk assessment, psychosocial issues, and neuromechanics. Moreover, they engage in rigorous coursework, conduct independent research, and often complete clinical residencies or internships to gain practical experience in specialized areas.

Entry-level Jobs: University Professor, Sports Clinic Director, Sports Coach or Manager

Athletic Training Degree Requirements

Our team lists some pertinent athletic trainer education requirements to further guide aspiring students in their academic journey. Take note that requirements by institution also vary and may need additional planning.

Admission Requirements

1. Official transcript. Apart from filling out the application form, enrollees must submit proof of degree completion from an accredited sports program. If you earned an associate degree, even online ones such as an online associate degree in health science, present its transcript too.
2. GPA scores. Most universities require applicants to have a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0, especially for master’s programs.
3. Certification or work experience. Students who are already working must provide proof of their certification or the number of work hours spent under the supervision of a licensed athletic trainer.
4. ATCAS application. The Athletic Training Centralized Application System (ATCAS) enables students to submit all these admission requirements to multiple institutions in one application. Some universities require students to apply through this method only.
5. Other requirements. Some institutions also require letters of recommendation, prerequisite coursework, personal statements, and language proficiency scores (for international students).

Skill Requirements

1. Observation. Athletic trainers must monitor their patients’ movements, behavior, and physical condition closely to provide the best care. By attentively observing athletes, trainers can identify potential injuries, evaluate progress during rehabilitation, and make informed decisions about their care and treatment.
2. Critical thinking. They need strong critical-thinking skills to assess and analyze complex situations. They also need to evaluate available information calmly and consider all options to make informed decisions quickly, especially in high-pressure scenarios.
3. Compassion. Athletic trainers must show empathy, understanding, and emotional support to foster a positive and trusting relationship with athletes. Compassionate care also helps athletes feel comfortable and confident in their treatment and recovery process.
4. Organization. They must keep track of athlete records, treatment plans, and rehabilitation schedules, and coordinate well with other healthcare professionals. Being organized helps them stay on top of their administrative duties and ensures that athletes receive timely and appropriate care.
5. Communication. In a report, workers’ proficiency in communication skills was found to be lower than average (Dondi et al., 2021), which is why it is vital for athletic trainers to enhance this skill. Through open communication and active listening, they can create a safe space, explain medical and healthcare procedures clearly, and ensure the best care for their patients.

Technological Advancements in Athletic Training

The field of athletic training has significantly evolved with the integration of advanced technologies that enhance injury prevention, diagnostics, and rehabilitation. Wearable technology, such as motion sensors and heart rate monitors, now plays a pivotal role in monitoring athletes' vitals and biomechanics in real time. This data not only helps in tailoring personalized training programs but also in preventing overuse injuries by ensuring optimal training loads.

Moreover, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing rehabilitation processes. VR systems can simulate real-world activities and environments for safe, controlled therapeutic interventions, which is particularly beneficial for athletes recovering from injuries who need to regain their skills in a psychologically safe environment.

Another breakthrough is the use of electronic health records (EHRs) which streamline the management of health information, making it easier for athletic trainers to track and share athletes' medical histories and recovery processes with multiple stakeholders. This system supports a more coordinated and efficient approach to athlete care.

In addition to adopting new technologies, aspiring athletic trainers should consider the pace at which technology changes and look into educational programs that emphasize technological proficiency. For those interested in fast-tracking their careers, exploring accelerated programs such as the fastest bachelor's degree options can be a strategic move.

As technology continues to advance, athletic training programs must keep pace to provide the most effective and innovative care. These developments not only enhance the quality of training and care provided but also open new avenues for athletic trainers to specialize in high-tech interventions, ensuring they are at the forefront of sports medicine technology.

What to Look for in Athletic Training Programs

The top three settings where athletic trainers thrive are secondary schools (24.68%), clinics and hospitals (18.3%), and postsecondary education institutions (16.27%) (BOC for the Athletic Trainer, 2022). However, prior to making a decision on a career path, prospective students should carefully consider various factors when evaluating athletic training programs. Therefore, in this section, our team lists down a few significant points that students must weigh in.

1. Accreditation. Programs in athletic training are evaluated by the CAATE. They ensure that the quality of education offered by universities meets the highest standards.
2. Accelerated and dual-degree programs. Universities that offer these options enable students to complete both BS and MS degrees in just five years or combine athletic training with related disciplines, such as physical therapy and exercise science.
3. Student-to-faculty ratio. Good athletic training programs usually have a small student-to-faculty ratio, around 1:10 to 1:18, which empowers students to receive more hands-on learning and direct approaches to their coursework and studies.
4. Field placement opportunities. Nothing beats experience as a provider of practical knowledge, which is why looking for a program that provides practicum, internship, or clinical field hours is the best choice. This offers students opportunities to apply and gain skills that are needed in real-life situations.
5. Scholarship options. Earning both an undergraduate and graduate degree costs an arm and a leg. Therefore, looking into available scholarships can help alleviate the overall cost of education. Both the NATA Research & Education Foundation and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) endow annual scholarships to athletic training degree students.

How Can Athletic Training Degrees Drive Research and Innovation in Sports Medicine?

Athletic training education equips professionals with analytical tools and clinical acumen to contribute to pioneering research in sports medicine. Graduates often spearhead investigations into injury prevention, rehabilitation optimization, and the clinical effectiveness of emerging technologies. By engaging in targeted research projects and leveraging specialized training, athletic trainers can refine treatment protocols and establish evidence-based best practices that drive overall industry innovation. For those aspiring to enhance their research credentials while advancing their professional practice, pursuing an easiest masters degree online can provide a rigorous academic foundation tailored to the evolving needs of sports medicine.

How can athletic training degrees integrate with broader health fields?

Athletic training is inherently linked to the broader health and wellness fields, especially as the demand for specialized healthcare professionals increases. Here’s how integrating athletic training with other health-related areas can enhance career opportunities:

• Interdisciplinary Learning: Many athletic training programs emphasize collaboration with other health disciplines like physical therapy, sports medicine, and kinesiology. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates have a holistic understanding of injury prevention and rehabilitation.
• Health Informatics: As technology plays a bigger role in sports healthcare, students might benefit from incorporating health informatics into their studies. Learning how to use data-driven health management systems can improve patient care and outcomes. If you're interested in combining athletic training with healthcare technology, consider exploring a health informatics degree online to expand your expertise.
• Career Flexibility: Athletic trainers who understand the broader healthcare landscape, such as through certification in other fields like physical therapy or sports psychology, can pursue more varied roles, including higher-paying positions in hospitals, research, or teaching.
• Emerging Fields: The integration of athletic training with other fields such as biomechanics, health data analytics, or wellness coaching can also open new career avenues, as athletes and healthcare providers increasingly seek comprehensive approaches to health and injury management.

By expanding beyond traditional athletic training into these growing sectors, you can ensure that your degree remains valuable in a rapidly evolving job market.

Should Athletic Training Education Integrate Public Health Perspectives?

Athletic training professionals can benefit from integrating public health principles into their practice to enhance community wellness strategies and improve preventive care protocols. By incorporating concise public health training focused on epidemiology, health promotion, and risk management, athletic trainers can better collaborate with broader healthcare teams to address emerging health challenges. This integration also prepares practitioners to contribute to policy development and community outreach initiatives, thereby broadening their impact beyond direct athletic care. For those seeking a compact yet intensive public health credential, options such as one year MPH programs online provide a strategic pathway to gain essential competencies in a short time frame.

Can Complementary Accelerated Certifications Enhance Athletic Training Careers?

Athletic training professionals can broaden their clinical and administrative expertise by integrating targeted accelerated certifications. Focusing on complementary healthcare skills—such as patient management, administrative efficiency, and advanced clinical support—can optimize patient outcomes and foster seamless interdisciplinary collaboration. For instance, pursuing a program like the accelerated medical assistant offers concentrated training that augments traditional athletic training competencies. This strategic enhancement of skills not only deepens practical knowledge but also positions athletic trainers competitively in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Exploring Accelerated Learning Pathways in Athletic Training

For individuals aiming to align their passion for athletic training with a flexible and efficient educational route, accelerated learning pathways present an ideal solution. These programs cater specifically to adults who aspire to fast-track their academic journey while balancing professional or personal commitments. By condensing coursework without compromising on quality, accelerated programs make it possible to acquire a degree in less time compared to traditional formats.

A prominent example is the availability of options like accelerated bachelor's degree programs for adults, which are designed to streamline the educational process for non-traditional learners. These programs emphasize practical, career-focused training tailored to rapidly changing professional demands. Their structure enables students to enrich their technical skills in athletic training while gaining a robust foundation in critical areas like injury management and performance optimization.

Additionally, such pathways create opportunities for smoother transitions into advanced degrees or specialized certifications. This approach ensures long-term career growth as well as adaptability in diverse healthcare and sports medicine settings. In particular, leveraging accelerated pathways can provide a competitive edge, especially in fields where continuous learning is essential to staying ahead of industry trends.

For aspiring athletic trainers seeking efficient educational models, exploring these frameworks can offer not only speed but also flexibility, enabling them to contribute effectively to the evolving landscape of sports medicine and healthcare.

What Role Does Interdisciplinary Collaboration Play in Shaping the Future of Athletic Training?

As the field of athletic training continues to evolve, interdisciplinary collaboration becomes increasingly vital. The integration of athletic training with other healthcare fields, such as pharmacy, can enhance patient care and outcomes. For instance, understanding the implications of medication on athletic performance can inform treatment plans. Students interested in exploring the intersection of pharmacy and athletic training can consider pursuing an online pharmacy doctorate to gain a deeper understanding of pharmaceutical principles and their application in sports medicine. By fostering collaboration across disciplines, athletic trainers can provide more comprehensive care, driving innovation and excellence in the field.

Can Online Advanced Degrees Propel Your Athletic Training Career?

Online advanced degrees present flexible, career-advancing opportunities that allow athletic trainers to deepen their expertise in specialized areas such as technology integration, innovative research, and advanced patient care models. This path enables professionals to balance ongoing work demands with continuous learning, fostering adaptability and leadership in a rapidly evolving sports medicine landscape. Explore options like the easiest masters degree online to identify programs that offer rigorous academic content paired with practical insights, ultimately enhancing both skill sets and career longevity.

How Can Athletic Training Programs Foster Healthcare Administration Expertise?

Athletic training programs that integrate aspects of healthcare administration equip professionals with essential skills in practice management, billing, and compliance. By introducing coursework focused on administrative processes and financial oversight, these programs prepare athletic trainers to manage clinic operations effectively and bridge the gap between clinical care and business practices. For example, understanding how much does medical billing and coding school cost can offer practical insights into aligning clinical services with optimized billing procedures, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency in multidisciplinary health environments.

Can Dual Degrees in Athletic Training and Pharmacy Accelerate Your Healthcare Career?

Advancing expertise through dual degree programs that integrate athletic training with pharmaceutical sciences enables professionals to deliver a more comprehensive approach to patient care. This interdisciplinary model deepens understanding of medication management in conjunction with injury prevention and recovery, ultimately enhancing treatment protocols and clinical outcomes. Institutions offering accelerated pathways—such as the quickest PharmD degree—provide a streamlined route toward acquiring dual competencies. Graduates who combine these fields position themselves to lead innovative, evidence-based practices in diverse healthcare settings.

How Do Accreditation and Certification Impact Athletic Training Career Outcomes?

Accreditation and certification serve as definitive quality benchmarks that ensure athletic training programs meet rigorous industry standards and prepare graduates for advanced clinical challenges. Recognized credentials not only validate the program’s curriculum but also enhance professional credibility and streamline the licensure process across various healthcare settings. By aligning training with established accrediting bodies, students gain a competitive edge in clinical decision-making and interdisciplinary collaboration. Moreover, exploring avenues for further specialization—such as pursuing a top online doctorate in pharmacy programs—can create synergies between athletic training and broader healthcare practices, ultimately boosting career outcomes.

Helping Individuals Reach New Heights through Athletic Training Programs

In this guide, our Research.com team thoroughly discussed what athletic training is and provided details on institutions that offer athletic training programs, their types, cost, and career pathways to guide aspiring students in their academic journey.

As the physical activity and sports industries continue to grow, the demand for skilled professionals who can effectively care for physically active individuals also soars. Athletic trainers usually stay behind the limelight of the industry’s hype and fame. However, when it comes to patient care, they are the true MVPs, helping athletes and health enthusiasts optimize their performance and reach new heights of excellence.

Key Insights

• Essential Role: Athletic trainers are crucial in sports medicine, focusing on injury prevention, treatment, and recovery for athletes across all levels.
• Growing Demand: The profession is expected to grow significantly, with a 17% increase in job opportunities from 2021 to 2031.
• Comprehensive Education: Athletic training programs cover a wide range of subjects, including physiology, kinesiology, anatomy, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates can work in various settings such as schools, professional sports teams, clinics, hospitals, and performing arts centers. They can also pursue advanced roles like physician assistants or sports coaches.
• High Earning Potential: Athletic trainers earn an average salary of $57,810, with higher salaries possible in specialized roles or with advanced degrees.
• Accreditation and Quality: Accredited programs by CAATE ensure high standards of education, essential for certification and employment.
• Advanced Education: The AT Strategic Alliance recommends a master’s degree as the minimum requirement for entry-level positions, encouraging continuous education.

FAQ

1. What is an athletic training degree? An athletic training degree equips students with the skills and knowledge to prevent, diagnose, and treat sports-related injuries. The curriculum includes subjects such as physiology, kinesiology, human anatomy, injury prevention, and rehabilitation techniques.
2. What can you do with an athletic training degree? Graduates can pursue careers as professional athletic trainers, physical therapists, sports coaches, physician assistants, or performing arts athletic trainers. They can work in various settings, including schools, clinics, hospitals, professional sports teams, and performing arts centers.
3. How much does it cost to get an athletic training degree? The cost varies based on the type of institution and location. In-state tuition for a bachelor's degree ranges from $6,000 to $16,000 per year, while out-of-state tuition can be between $14,000 and $40,000. Private universities may charge $17,800 to $50,000 per year. Graduate programs have similar variations in cost.
4. Is a degree in athletic training worth it? Yes, it is worth it for those passionate about sports and healthcare. Athletic trainers play a vital role in athlete care, enjoy diverse job opportunities, and have a growing job market. However, the profession requires dedication, hard work, and continuous professional development.
5. What are the best athletic training programs for 2025? Some of the top programs include those at Grand Canyon University, University of Houston, University of Michigan, University of Central Florida, and Ohio University. These programs are known for their comprehensive curriculum, hands-on learning, and strong industry connections.
6. What are the requirements to study athletic training? Admission requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum GPA (usually around 3.0), and completion of prerequisite coursework in subjects like biology and chemistry. Some programs may also require letters of recommendation, personal statements, and proof of relevant experience.
7. What is the job outlook for athletic trainers? The job outlook for athletic trainers is very positive, with a projected 17% increase in employment from 2021 to 2031. This growth is driven by the expanding sports industry and increased awareness of sports-related injuries and preventive care.
8. What kind of salary can I earn with an athletic training degree? The average salary for athletic trainers is $57,810 per year. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific job setting, with higher earnings possible in specialized roles or with advanced degrees.
9. What types of athletic training degrees are available? Degrees in athletic training include bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Bachelor’s degrees provide foundational knowledge, while master’s and doctoral programs offer advanced training and specialization. The AT Strategic Alliance recommends a master’s degree as the minimum entry-level requirement.
10. What should I look for in an athletic training program? Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Consider factors such as student-to-faculty ratio, availability of clinical field placements, opportunities for dual degrees, and financial aid options.

References:

1. Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer. (2022, April). BOC certified AT demographics. https://7f6907b2.flowpaper.com/BOCCertifiedATDemographics/#page=3
2. College Tuition Compare. (2023). Athletic training/trainer program 2023 tuition. https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/majors/51.0913/athletic-training-trainer
3. Data USA. (n.d.). Athletic trainer. Retrieved May 30, 2023, from https://datausa.io/profile/cip/athletic-trainer
4. Dondi, M., Klier, J., Panier, F., & Schubert, J. (2021, June 25). Defining the skills citizens will need in the future world of work. McKinsey & Company. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-and-social-sector/our-insights/defining-the-skills-citizens-will-need-in-the-future-world-of-work
5. National Athletic Trainers’ Association. (n.d.). What is athletic training? Retrieved May 30, 2023, from https://www.nata.org/about/athletic-training
6. Sitzler, B. (2023, March 21). The state of employment for athletic training. National Athletic Trainers’ Association. https://www.nata.org/blog/beth-sitzler/state-employment-athletic-training
7. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Athletic trainers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/athletic-trainers.htm
8. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational employment and wages, May 2022 Athletic trainers. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes299091.htm