Explore diverse career paths in Athletic Training within the Technical and Career subcategory. Opportunities range from sports medicine to rehabilitation, offering roles in universities, sports teams, and healthcare facilities. Gain insights into job demand, salary expectations, and the impact of athletic training on sports performance and athlete health.
Athletic Training faculty jobs represent an exciting intersection of sports passion, healthcare expertise, and academic instruction, making them ideal for those eager to shape the next generation of sports medicine professionals. Athletic training is a dynamic allied health profession dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating musculoskeletal injuries, particularly among athletes and physically active populations. Certified athletic trainers (ATCs), the professionals at the heart of this field, work in diverse settings from high school gyms and college athletic departments to professional sports teams, clinics, and military bases.
For novices wondering what sets athletic training apart, imagine a role that combines the precision of medical care with the energy of sports. Unlike personal trainers focused on fitness routines, ATCs possess advanced clinical skills honed through years of education and hands-on practice. They assess concussions on the sideline, design rehabilitation programs for ACL tears, and educate on injury prevention strategies like proper taping techniques or nutrition for peak performance.
Career pathways in athletic training are structured and accessible. Entry typically starts with a bachelor's degree (4 years) in athletic training, exercise science, or kinesiology from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). This is followed by a master's degree (2 years), clinical rotations under licensed supervisors, and passing the Board of Certification (BOC) exam for ATC credentialing, plus state licensure where required. Aspiring faculty often pursue a doctorate (PhD or EdD in athletic training or related fields) to qualify for tenure-track positions, alongside gaining clinical experience, publications, and teaching practicums. Networking through conferences like those hosted by the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) is crucial—many land roles via connections made there.
Salaries reflect the specialized nature: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median of $57,930 for athletic trainers in 2023, with projected 14% growth through 2033 due to rising youth and college sports participation. Faculty roles pay more—assistant professors average $75,000-$95,000, associates $90,000-$110,000, and full professors $110,000+, varying by institution and location. Explore detailed breakdowns on professor salaries, including Athletic Training specifics. High-demand areas include Texas, California, and Florida; check openings near top hubs like Texas universities, Los Angeles, or Florida.
Students eyeing athletic training will find robust opportunities at leading institutions. Top programs include the University of Mount Union (Ohio), A.T. Still University (Missouri), and Lasell University (Massachusetts) for undergrad excellence, per NATA rankings. These offer immersive curricula covering anatomy, biomechanics, emergency care, and psychology of injury, plus internships with pro teams like the NFL or NCAA Division I schools. Gain insights from peers by visiting Rate My Professor to review Athletic Training instructors and courses.
Whether transitioning from clinical practice or starting as a student, athletic training faculty jobs demand resilience and innovation amid trends like concussion protocol advancements and esports medicine. For actionable advice, review higher ed career advice on building a standout CV. Ready to step into this vital field? Browse higher-ed jobs now for Athletic Training faculty positions, adjunct roles, and more—your impactful career starts here. Check Rate My Professor for program vibes and university salaries insights.
Athletic Training is a dynamic allied health profession dedicated to the prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries sustained by athletes and physically active people across all ages and skill levels. Certified Athletic Trainers (ATs), credentialed by the Board of Certification (BOC), play a pivotal role in sports medicine, working closely with physicians, coaches, and teams to optimize performance and ensure safety. Unlike general trainers, ATs undergo rigorous education and clinical training, making them essential in high-stakes environments like collegiate athletics, professional leagues, and clinical settings.
The field's roots trace back to 1881 when Amos Alonzo Stagg became one of the first documented trainers at the University of Michigan, evolving from basic bandaging to a formalized discipline. The National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA), established in 1950, propelled professional standards, leading to today's Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)-accredited programs. Over the past decade, the profession has grown significantly, with NATA membership surpassing 55,000 and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data showing employment rising from 25,800 jobs in 2018 to 28,300 in 2023.
Today, Athletic Training's relevance surges amid booming youth sports participation (over 60 million U.S. kids annually), heightened concussion awareness post-2010s NFL settlements, and expansion into esports, military, and performing arts. BLS projects 14% job growth through 2033—much faster than the 3% national average—with median pay at $62,310 (May 2023), though faculty roles command $75,000-$115,000 annually based on experience, institution type, and location, per sites like professor salaries data. In academia, Athletic Training faculty teach courses on biomechanics, emergency care, and rehabilitation while conducting research on injury epidemiology, often at universities with robust sports programs.
For jobseekers eyeing faculty jobs in Athletic Training, start with a bachelor's degree from a CAATE-accredited program (e.g., University of Florida or Ohio University), followed by a master's or doctorate for tenure-track positions. Accumulate 1,500+ clinical hours, pass the BOC exam, and build a portfolio via internships or residencies. Networking through NATA conferences is crucial—check faculty insights on Rate My Professor to identify mentors in your target area. Hotspots include Texas (home to Texas Christian University) and Florida; browse openings in Texas, Gainesville, or Los Angeles.
Students, explore pathways via higher ed career advice and specialized programs at institutions like A.T. Still University. Actionable tip: Volunteer at local high school games to gain hands-on experience while reviewing syllabi on Rate My Professor. Faculty positions offer stability, research grants, and impact—vital for advancing sports health globally. Dive into higher ed jobs today to launch your Athletic Training career.
Pursuing a career in athletic training means becoming a vital healthcare professional who prevents, diagnoses, and treats injuries in athletes and active individuals. Athletic trainers (ATs) work in schools, sports teams, clinics, and universities, blending sports medicine with rehabilitation. For faculty roles in athletic training programs, qualifications emphasize advanced education, clinical expertise, and teaching prowess. Entry-level positions require a bachelor's degree, but aspiring professors often need a doctorate to lead courses, conduct research, and mentor students.
A bachelor's degree in athletic training or a related field from a Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)-accredited program is the foundation. These programs include 800-1,000 hours of clinical rotations. A master's degree boosts employability for clinical roles, while a PhD or EdD in athletic training, kinesiology, or sports medicine is essential for tenure-track faculty jobs. Top programs include those at the University of Mount Union and A.T. Still University, known for rigorous curricula and research opportunities.
Pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam to earn the Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) credential, valid nationwide. Most U.S. states mandate licensure, renewed every two years with continuing education. For global roles, check equivalents like those from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy in the UK. Visit National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) for resources.
Gain hands-on experience through internships at universities or pro teams. Publish research on injury trends—faculty salaries average $75,000-$110,000 annually per professor salaries data, higher in states like /us/texas. Network via NATA conferences and explore higher ed faculty jobs. Tailor your resume with our free resume template, and review Athletic Training professors on Rate My Professor. Students, start with scholarships for CAATE programs. Jobseekers, browse Athletic Training jobs and career advice. Median AT salary is $57,930 (BLS 2023), with 14% job growth projected.
Tips: Volunteer at events, pursue CPR recertification yearly, and leverage Rate My Professor to connect with mentors. For international paths, adapt to local regs like in /uk/london.
Embarking on a career in athletic training offers rewarding opportunities to support athletes' health and performance, especially in academia where you can shape future professionals as faculty. Athletic training involves preventing, diagnosing, and treating musculoskeletal injuries for physically active individuals. Becoming an athletic trainer certified (ATC) requires structured education, clinical experience, and certification, with advanced degrees essential for faculty positions.
The pathway typically spans 8-12 years post-high school. Start with a bachelor's degree (4 years) in athletic training or a related field like kinesiology or exercise science from a Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)-accredited program. During undergrad, complete at least 1,000 clinical hours under supervision. Next, pursue a master's degree (2 years) in athletic training—mandatory since 2022 for BOC certification eligibility—gaining additional 500 hours.
For faculty roles at colleges or universities, a PhD (3-5 years) in athletic training, sports medicine, or rehabilitation sciences is often required for tenure-track positions. Accumulate research experience, publications in journals like the Journal of Athletic Training, and teaching practicums. Pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam (pass rate ~70% first-time) and obtain state licensure, which varies by location (e.g., 45 U.S. states require it).
| Stage | Duration | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | CAATE-accredited coursework, 1,000+ clinical hours, prerequisites for grad school |
| Master's Degree & Certification | 2 years | BOC exam, state license, entry-level clinical work |
| Clinical Experience | 1-3 years | Internships at universities, pro teams, or clinics (e.g., NFL, NCAA) |
| PhD & Faculty Prep | 4-6 years | Dissertation on injury prevention, publications (avg. 3-5 for job market), conferences |
Common pitfalls include insufficient clinical hours leading to exam failure or burnout from demanding schedules (50-60 hours/week). Advice: Network via the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA)—50,000+ members—and seek mentorship. Prioritize research early; faculty jobs emphasize scholarly activity. Stats show job growth at 14% through 2032 (BLS), faster than average, with assistant professor salaries averaging $70,000-$90,000 annually, higher at top institutions like the University of Florida or Ohio University.
Explore RateMyProfessor for insights on athletic training faculty, check professor salaries by region, and browse higher ed faculty jobs. Students, review higher ed career advice for tips. For U.S. opportunities, search US jobs or Texas hubs like Austin (Austin). Visit NATA.org for resources.
Athletic training faculty and professional roles offer competitive compensation that varies widely based on experience, location, and institution type. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2023), the median annual wage for athletic trainers stands at $57,720, with the top 10% earning over $83,080. Faculty positions, such as assistant professors in athletic training programs, typically start at $65,000–$85,000 at public universities, rising to $100,000+ for associate and full professors at research-intensive institutions like the University of Florida or Ohio University.
Breakdown by Role:
By Location: Salaries are highest in high-cost states like California ($70,000 median) and New Jersey ($68,000), per BLS data. In the Southeast (e.g., Texas, Florida), expect $55,000–$90,000 due to strong sports programs. Internationally, UK-based sports science lecturers earn £40,000–£60,000 (~$52,000–$78,000 USD), while Australian roles average AUD 100,000 (~$66,000 USD). Check Texas or California listings on AcademicJobs.com for local opportunities.
Trends show a 14% job growth projection through 2032 (BLS), driven by increased athlete safety focus post-concussion awareness. Salaries rose 5–7% annually from 2018–2023 (NATA surveys), outpacing inflation in top conferences like the SEC.
Key factors include certification as an Athletic Trainer Certified (ATC), advanced degrees (master's minimum, doctorate preferred for tenure-track), years of experience, and institution prestige. Negotiate by highlighting clinical expertise or research grants—aim for 10–15% above offer via data from professor salaries benchmarks.
Benefits enhance packages: health insurance, retirement matching (e.g., 403(b) up to 10%), tuition remission for family, and professional development stipends ($2,000–$5,000/year). Total compensation can add 30–50% value. For insights on professors, visit Rate My Professor to gauge earning potential at specific schools. Explore higher ed jobs and professor salaries for more.
Pro tip: Network at NATA conferences to boost offers. BLS Athletic Trainers provides global context.
Athletic Training careers, which involve preventing, diagnosing, and rehabilitating sports-related injuries for athletes from high school to professionals, show varied demand worldwide. In the United States, the field booms due to robust college sports programs, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 14% growth through 2032—faster than average. Southeastern states lead thanks to powerhouse NCAA Division I conferences like the SEC, while the West Coast offers year-round opportunities from beach volleyball to skiing. Internationally, Canada mirrors U.S. trends with growing university roles, Australia thrives on rugby and AFL, and the UK emphasizes sports therapy in universities. Jobseekers should note quirks like U.S. Board of Certification (BOC) requirements versus Australia's Exercise and Sports Science Australia accreditation.
| Region | Demand Level | Avg. Faculty Salary (USD equiv.) | Key Opportunities | Quirks & Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Southeast (e.g., Texas, Florida) | High | $65,000–$85,000 | NCAA D1 schools, pro teams | Hot climate boosts outdoor training; network at NATA conferences via NATA |
| US West (e.g., California, Los Angeles) | High | $75,000–$95,000 | Diverse sports, research unis | High living costs; check professor salaries for Athletic Training faculty |
| Canada (e.g., Ontario) | Growing | $60,000–$80,000 | CIS universities, hockey focus | CATC certification key; cold weather prep essential |
| Australia (e.g., Sydney) | Medium-High | $55,000–$75,000 | Uni sports science depts | ESSA accreditation; beach sports dominate |
| UK (e.g., London) | Medium | $45,000–$65,000 | Sports therapy programs | BASRaT registration; football emphasis |
For jobseekers eyeing Athletic Training faculty jobs, prioritize areas with CAATE-accredited programs—check Rate My Professor for Athletic Training insights. Explore US, Canada, or Australia listings on AcademicJobs.com. Tailor applications to local sports culture: Texas loves football trainers, California values holistic wellness. Use higher ed career advice for resumes, and review professor ratings in target cities. Proximity to pro leagues like NFL or EPL boosts research grants. Students, scout programs in high-demand spots for hands-on clinical rotations.
Athletic training programs prepare students to become certified athletic trainers (ATs), professionals who specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries in athletes and active individuals. These Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)-accredited programs emphasize hands-on clinical experience, biomechanics, and emergency care. For jobseekers eyeing faculty roles in athletic training, top institutions offer robust master's and doctoral programs where you can teach future ATs. Students benefit from high job placement rates, often over 95%, in settings like universities, high schools, and pro sports teams. Explore Rate My Professor for faculty insights at these schools and check professor salaries to gauge earning potential, averaging $75,000-$110,000 annually for athletic training faculty depending on experience and location.
| Institution | Location | Key Programs | Notable Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Mount Union | Alliance, OH (Ohio) | BS in Athletic Training (BSAT), MSAT | #1 Niche ranking 2024; 100% job placement; 1,600+ clinical hours |
| Lasell University | Newton, MA (Massachusetts) | BSAT, MS in Athletic Training | Top 2 nationally; partnerships with pro teams like Boston Bruins; immersive simulations |
| Texas Christian University (TCU) | Fort Worth, TX (Texas) | MS in Athletic Training (MSAT) | Ranked top 5; Big 12 conference access; research opportunities in sports science |
| Springfield College | Springfield, MA (Massachusetts) | BSAT, MSAT, PhD | Historic leader since 1885; extensive alumni network; faculty with NFL experience |
| Messiah University | Mechanicsburg, PA (Pennsylvania) | BS in Athletic Training | Top 10 Niche; mission-driven; study abroad in sports medicine |
Students starting out: Prioritize CAATE-accredited programs for Board of Certification (BOC) exam eligibility—pass rates exceed 90% at top schools. Gain 1,000+ supervised clinical hours; volunteer at local sports events. Jobseekers for athletic training faculty positions (higher ed faculty jobs): Earn a master's minimum, PhD preferred; publish research on injury rehab trends. Network via higher ed career advice and NATA conferences. Target growing markets in Texas and Florida due to sports boom. Use Rate My Professor to research departments. Visit CAATE.net for full listings. Faculty openings abound at these leaders—search athletic training jobs today.
Aspiring athletic trainers and faculty hopefuls, landing a role or gaining admission requires strategic preparation. Athletic Training (AT), a allied health field focused on preventing and treating sports-related injuries, demands specific qualifications like a bachelor's degree from a Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)-accredited program and Board of Certification (BOC) exam passage for the ATC credential. Faculty positions often need a master's or doctorate plus teaching experience. With demand growing 14% through 2033 per U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, follow these 9 proven strategies blending education, experience, and networking for jobseekers and students alike. Ethical practice—never inflating hours or credentials—is key to long-term success.
Implement these for pathways to thriving AT careers—check Rate My Professor for Athletic Training insights and explore scholarships.
Diversity and inclusion (DEI) in Athletic Training—a healthcare profession focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating athletic injuries—play pivotal roles in ensuring equitable care for athletes from varied backgrounds. Diversity encompasses differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status, while inclusion fosters environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. For jobseekers eyeing Athletic Training faculty jobs and students exploring programs, understanding DEI trends equips you to thrive in modern academia and clinical settings.
Over the past decade, the field has shifted significantly. Data from the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) 2023 demographics survey reveals 56.4% of certified athletic trainers (ATs) are women, up from 48% in 2013, reflecting growing female participation. Racially, 79.2% identify as White, 6.8% Hispanic/Latino, 5.9% Black/African American, 3.1% Asian, and 1.7% multiracial/other, with steady increases among underrepresented minorities. Non-binary and LGBTQ+ representation stands at about 3%, highlighting ongoing progress. These shifts mirror broader higher education trends, where diverse faculty enhance student outcomes—explore salaries via professor salaries data for inclusive institutions.
NATA's Diversity Leadership Council drives equity through scholarships, mentorship, and advocacy, including a Racial Equity Action Plan post-2020. The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) mandates cultural competence in curricula, requiring programs to address DEI explicitly. Universities enforce inclusive hiring via Title IX compliance and athletic department policies, prioritizing candidates with DEI experience. Internationally, bodies like the UK's Chartered Society of Physiotherapy echo these efforts in sports rehabilitation, relevant for global uni jobs.
Diverse Athletic Training teams improve cultural competence, leading to better athlete trust, adherence to rehab protocols, and reduced health disparities—studies show diverse providers cut injury recurrence by up to 20% in multicultural teams. Innovation flourishes with varied perspectives, like tailored protocols for female or minority athletes. For faculty, DEI expertise boosts research grants and student retention. Examples include the National Black Athletic Trainers' Association (NBATA) mentoring programs at HBCUs like Howard University, and women-led initiatives at the University of Mount Union, a top AT program emphasizing inclusion.
Students, seek DEI-focused programs at institutions like Florida International University. Aspiring faculty, emphasize lived experiences—view professor salaries in inclusive settings via Rate My Professor. For global opportunities, explore UK academic jobs. Also, read how to become a university lecturer for transferable strategies.
Joining key clubs, societies, and networks in athletic training is essential for aspiring and current professionals. These organizations provide networking opportunities, continuing education credits (CEUs), certification support, job boards, and advocacy that directly boost career prospects and academic growth. For students, many offer discounted student memberships with access to mentorship programs and conferences, helping build resumes early. Professionals gain visibility for faculty roles in university athletic departments, where athletic trainers often teach courses alongside clinical duties. Networking here can lead to collaborations, research grants, and positions listed on higher ed faculty jobs. Check professor feedback on Rate My Professor to connect with leaders in the field.
The premier U.S.-based organization for certified athletic trainers (ATCs), NATA advances the profession through education, research, and policy. With over 50,000 members, it hosts annual conventions and district meetings for hands-on workshops. Benefits include job postings, liability insurance discounts, and the Journal of Athletic Training. Joining enhances employability for athletic training faculty jobs, as universities value NATA involvement. Visit NATA. Advice: Students join for $60/year; professionals $235/year—start with student membership for mentorship.
Focused on collegiate athletic training, CATS supports over 1,800 members at NCAA institutions with resources for Division I-III programs. It offers leadership summits, position statements on workload, and networking for academic roles. Significant for careers transitioning to university faculty, where teaching sports injury management is common. Links to professor salaries data show athletic training educators earn $70,000-$110,000 annually. Explore CATS. Join via application; dues ~$150/year.
The gold standard for ATC certification, BOC sets exam standards and provides recertification PDUs. Essential for legal practice in 49 states; faculty positions often require it. Benefits: Exam prep, job board, ethics resources. Critical for studies, as accredited programs (CAATE) align with BOC. BOC site. Advice: Pass exam post-bachelor's/master's; maintain with 50 PDUs/2 years.
A NATA district covering Midwest states like Michigan and Ohio, GLATA hosts clinical symposia and scholarships. Ideal for regional networking; connect with faculty at schools like University of Michigan. Links to jobs in Michigan or Ohio. Dues $75/year.
Other networks like the path to university lecturing or Canadian Athletic Therapists Association expand global reach. Active involvement signals dedication to employers scanning Rate My Professor profiles.
Discover key resources tailored for aspiring athletic trainers—healthcare professionals certified to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries in athletes. These tools offer job listings, certification guidance, educational programs, and career insights to help you navigate pathways from student to faculty roles in universities or sports programs.
Pursuing a career or education in Athletic Training offers compelling advantages for jobseekers and students alike, blending healthcare expertise with sports passion. Athletic trainers (ATs), certified professionals who prevent, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal injuries in athletes, enjoy robust demand driven by rising sports participation and injury awareness. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the field projects 14% job growth from 2023 to 2033—much faster than average—translating to thousands of new Athletic Training faculty jobs and clinical roles globally.
Salaries are competitive, especially for faculty positions. Entry-level athletic training instructors earn around $60,000-$75,000 annually, while experienced professors at universities can exceed $100,000, per data from professor salaries reports. In high-demand areas like the U.S. Sun Belt states, figures rise due to college sports programs; for instance, check opportunities in Texas or Miami. Internationally, roles in the UK or Australia offer equivalent £45,000-£70,000, bolstered by professional leagues.
The value lies in high job satisfaction (85% per NATA surveys), work-life balance in academia, and lifelong learning. Students benefit from hands-on programs at institutions like Ohio University, building pathways to adjunct professor jobs. Explore Rate My Professor for Athletic Training course reviews, professor salaries breakdowns, and higher-ed jobs to launch your journey confidently.
Embarking on a career in athletic training offers profound rewards, as shared by seasoned professionals and eager students alike. Athletic trainers, certified through the Board of Certification (BOC) as Athletic Trainers (ATs), emphasize the thrill of working directly with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and rehabilitate musculoskeletal injuries—from sprains in high school football to ACL tears in college soccer. Many faculty members teaching in Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)-accredited programs rave about blending clinical practice with academia, mentoring the next generation while advancing research on concussion protocols and performance enhancement. For real-world insights, explore professor reviews on Rate My Professor, where athletic training educators at institutions like the University of Florida or Ohio University often earn high marks for their practical labs and field experiences that prepare students for real athletic environments.
Students frequently highlight the hands-on nature of athletic training curricula, which include immersive clinical rotations logging thousands of hours under supervision—essential for BOC exam eligibility post-master's degree. Reviews on Rate My Professor reveal standout faculty who integrate cutting-edge tech like motion analysis software, helping novices grasp biomechanics without prior knowledge. One common theme: the field's demanding schedules build resilience, with grads landing roles in NCAA Division I programs or pro teams. Check professor salaries for athletic training faculty, averaging $75,000-$95,000 annually per recent data from the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA), influenced by location and experience.
To aid your decisions, professionals advise starting with volunteer hours at local sports clinics to test the waters, networking via higher ed career advice resources, and shadowing certified ATs. Students recommend selecting programs with strong Rate My Professor ratings for athletic training courses to ensure engaging instruction. Dive into job opportunities on higher ed jobs boards and explore hotspots like /us/texas or /us/california for booming programs. Ultimately, these perspectives underscore athletic training's blend of science, empathy, and adrenaline—perfect for those passionate about sports health. For salary benchmarks, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
