Athletic trainers are health professionals who provide injury prevention and treatment services to athletes of all ages. Often considered the first responders in an athletic injury situation, athletic trainers must receive at least an undergraduate degree and obtain state certification -- in most states -- before beginning an athletic training job. The career path for athletic trainers includes opportunities for advancement when trainers pursue additional education.
Education
Three levels of education are available for athletic trainers: undergraduate, master's and doctoral degrees. The degree an athletic trainer has often determines the types of training jobs they are qualified for. More than 350 undergraduate institutions offer undergraduate athletic training degrees, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Students undergo training in anatomy, physiology, sports medicine and injury prevention, often in clinical and classroom settings. An estimated 70 percent of athletic trainers earn their master's degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Master's programs offer additional opportunities to engage in hands-on training. Doctoral education continues advanced studies in athletic training and often involves a research component.
Duties
Athletic trainers work with athletes and active individuals of all ages. Duties include advising athletic teams on methods to improve athletic performance and nutrition. Athletic trainers also work to prevent injury through taping and suggesting assistive tools, such as braces for potential weak areas. If an athlete does experience an injury, athletic trainers assess and initiate treatment for the injury. Trainers often are an integral part in the athlete's rehabilitation.
Job Distribution
Athletic trainers primarily work in an educational environment, working for middle or high schools or in a university environment, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Trainers also work at the professional athletic level, working with football, basketball, baseball, soccer or hockey teams, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sports medicine clinics and other healthcare institutions also employ athletic trainers. The United States military employs athletic trainers as recreational specialists, biological sciences technicians and as safety professionals.
Advancement Opportunities
Athletic trainers who work in a university setting may wish to work toward becoming a head athletic trainer, assistant athletic director or athletic director. Those who work in a healthcare or sports medicine clinic setting may advance to clinic administrator. Management roles are available in most athletic training occupations. Pursuing these job advancements may require a master's or doctoral-level degree.
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