What is Athletic Training ? Athletic training is practiced by athletic trainers, health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to optimize activity and participation of patients and clients. Athletic training encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and intervention of emergency, acute and chronic medical conditions involving impairment, functional limitations and disabilities. Athletic trainers treat a broad population, from the amateur and professional athlete to the typical patient in need of orthopedic rehabilitative care. Typical client groups include recreational, amateur and professional athletes, individuals who have suffered musculoskeletal injuuries, those seeking strength, conditioning, fitness and performance enhancement, and others designated by the physician. To become certified athletic trainers, students must graduate with a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited professional athletic training education program and pass a comprehensive test administered by the Board of Certification. Once certified, they must meet ongoing continuing education requirements in order to remain certified. Success Factors The University of Cincinnati's athletic training program requires students to complete an internship as part of the curriculum. The internship enables a student to utilize skills acquired in the academic courses and clinical education experiences to gain practical on-the-job experience. These internships are conducted in an athletic training related site of the student's choice. Students have completed this requirement in a variety of settings including professional settings (Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals, Cincinnati Cyclones), performing arts (Cincinnati Ballet), amateur athletics (Disney Wide World of Sports), and high school and collegiate settings. Students must be in good academic standing and have completed all academic and clinical education requirements and receive the permission of the program coordinator to participate in the internship. A total of 400 contact hours must be documented for the student to receive credit for the internship. Many students are successful in obtaining full-time positions after graduation, in part due to the experiences they gained from the internship.

Career Possibilities There are diverse employment opportunities in athletic training. Through classroom, clinical education experiences, and the internship, students are prepared for a responsible position of service in the following employment areas. Amateur, Professional Sports, and Olympic Venues Colleges and Universities Schools (K-12) Hospital and Clinical Industrial/Occupational Military Law Enforcement/Public Safety Performing Arts Physician Extender