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So if you’ve been following our blog this month, you may know that March is National Athletic Training Month.  Last week we discussed what an athletic trainer is and some of the things they do.  In order to fully understand athletic trainers, it’s important to have a basic understanding of their educational requirements.  For a more extensive description, click here.  In order to become an athletic trainer, all the following requirements need to be filled.

• 1. Attend an Accredited University.If you want to become an athletic trainer, you must attend a university who runs a CAATE Accredited Athletic Training Education Program (ATEP).  CAATE stands for the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education.  This organization maintains quality standards for those who wish to provide the service of an ATEP at the university level  Many universities offer a four-year track toward completion of the program and an undergraduate degree. That is the current minimum standard for entry-level athletic training education.  However by 2022, all accredited ATEPs will be required to offer Master’s level education, which will mean that a 5-year Master’s degree will be the new minimum requirement to become an athletic trainer.
  2. Apply.  Be Accepted.  Meet or Exceed Quality Standards.  Graduate.  To complete an ATEP is no easy task.  Candidates will have a chance to earn their spot through a highly competitive application process which includes interviews, review of transcripts, and completion of prerequisite courses.  If accepted into the ATEP, students must complete an intensive educational program comprised of several areas of study which include: orthopedic examination, therapeutic interventions, nutrition, rehabilitation, pharmacology, pathology, and several others.  Students spend a large part of the end of their education in clinical rotations, where they are required to fulfill weekly hours (typically 15-20) learning skills applicable to the profession. These rotations are under the supervision of licensed professionals.  While completing their course work, students must maintain a minimum Grade Point Average in order to be recommended to sit for the National Certification Exam.  Did you know that Northern Michigan University has a CAATE Accredited Athletic Training Education Program?  Click here to find out more information.  
  3. Pass the National Certification Exam.  Once their coursework has been completed (or is nearing completion), students are eligible to be recommended by their program director to take the Board of Certification Exam for Athletic Trainers.  Candidates must pass this exam in order to become eligible to practice as an athletic trainer.  It’s a comprehensive exam which encompasses all the things an athletic trainer should be able to know and do in order to practice as an AT.  The exam is online, and takes several hours to complete. It tests candidates’ general knowledge, practical skills, and ability to make appropriate decisions in mock scenarios.  Once a candidate passes their national exam, they are eligible to apply for state licensure, find a job and begin practicing!
  4. Apply for State Licensure Where Applicable.  Currently, 49 states and the District of Columbia require licensure to practice as an athletic trainer.  Licensure ensures that practitioners are meeting or exceeding the minimum quality standards in order to practice the profession of athletic training in their state.  The application process for state licensure varies from state to state. To apply for Michigan licensure, an application must be submitted with proof of a successful national exam, transcripts (if a new graduate), an endorsement (if transferring from another state), fingerprints, and a fee.  You can download the Michigan Athletic Trainer’s License Application here.
  5. Gain Employment and Maintain your License/Certification. Athletic trainers are required to maintain their licensure and certification by earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs).  These are independent courses which are approved by the Board of Certification. 50 CEUs are required every two years in order to maintain an active status as an athletic trainer.  CEUs can be reported in several categories. In Michigan, there are minimum requirements which need to be satisfied in the areas of Evidence-based practice (EBP), as well as pain management.  Other states may have different requirements. At the end of the two year cycle, CEU reports must be submitted, as well as appropriate fees for continued certification and licensure.