Athletic Trainer Certification | Athletic Trainer Careers

Athletic Trainer Certification | Our TOP Recommendations
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• Nature of the Work - Because of their proximity to athletes, the trainers often find themselves as the first provider of healthcare on the scene, should any injuries occur. Their training must allow them to recognize, assess and evaluate the level of injury and provide immediate care. It is important not to confuse personal trainers or fitness trainers with athletic trainers as they are quite different. Athletic trainers are considered to be health care workers, where fitness or personal trainers assist people in becoming more physically fit.
  
• Athletic Trainer Certification - Educational requirements for an athletic trainer can be earned through a bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college. Nationwide, more than 350 accredited programs were available in the year 2006. Both clinical settings and classroom education are included in the certification programs.
  
• Certification - The Board of Certification Inc. requires athletic trainers to be registered or licensed in 46 states. In order for the athletic trainers to acquire certification, they need to have earned a bachelor's degree from an athletic training program that is accredited. Maintaining their certification, requires the credential holders to take medical related courses. They must also adhere to the standards of practice set by the Board of Certification (BOC).
  
  

Athletic Trainer Certification | Athletic Trainer Careers

Although a minimum requirement of an athletic trainer is a bachelor's degree, a number of trainers hold a master or doctoral degree. Included in their formal education are health and science related courses. These include biomechanics, human anatomy, nutrition and physiology.

The National Athletic Trainers Association indicates that a masters or doctoral degree is held by sixty-eight percent of athletic trainers. Some positions may require a master degree or higher in order to be eligible for consideration. If you have an interest in becoming an athletic trainer within a school environment, a license or teaching certificate may be required.

Good communication and social skills are required within this profession, as all athletic trainers are dealing directly with a variety of people. In addition, the ability to manage stress and other difficult situations is an important asset. Problems may arise with clients, coaches, and/or parents with regard to suggested treatment. Organization is also an important skill, and the ability to wisely manage your time.


Athletic Trainer Certification - Graduate - Job Outlook

In 2006, the BLS (Labor Statistics Bureau) reported that athletic trainers held 17,000 positions found in all parts of the country. The majority of athletic training jobs are related to the field of sports. In health care, approximately 30 percent of athletic trainers are employed. This includes physicians offices, hospital positions, and other health practitioner's offices. An additional 35 percent are found in private educational services, primarily high schools, colleges and universities. A further 20 percent worked within recreational sports and fitness centers.

Projected employment in this field is 'much faster than average'. Prospects for jobs should be good in the industry of health care, and more competitive in positions held with sports teams.

The job turnover within this industry is very limited. Once within a sports organization, many individuals prefer to stay working with the same administrators, coaches and players. This is especially true if an excellent working relationship is already in place.

Athletic Trainer Certification - Graduates - Earnings Statistics

The BLS also reports full time positions held by most athletic trainers include benefits. Salaries are dependent upon the job responsibilities and previous experience and do vary by job setting. In May, the reported salaries were $36,500, with the middle earning from $28,000 to $45,000, with the lowest earning under $21,500 and the top more than $57,000.

Related Occupations: The AMA (American Medical Association) recognizes athletic trainers in the category of allied health professionals. Working under the direction of a variety of physicians, they provide immediate care including ongoing follow-up for any injuries. Advice and Education, as to the prevention of injuries, plus reconditioning and rehabilitation through therapy. Similar or related occupations are paramedics and EMT personnel, physician assistants, physical therapists, licensed practical and vocational nurses, registered nurses, occupational therapists, respiratory therapists, recreational therapists, podiatrists, massage therapists and chiropractors.


Athletic Trainer Certification - Courses - Schools

There are an excellent number of choices for attaining Athletic Trainer Certification. Online schools and colleges now provide the same curriculum as the traditional education. Learning online provides you with so much more flexibility to suit your lifestyle and current employment. We include our top recommendations for Athletic Trainer Certification.

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