Unlocking the Path to Certification- A Comprehensive Guide on Becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer
How to become a certified athletic trainer is a journey that requires dedication, education, and hands-on experience. With the increasing demand for skilled athletic trainers in schools, sports teams, and healthcare facilities, this career path offers a rewarding and challenging opportunity. In this article, we will explore the steps you need to take to become a certified athletic trainer and the skills required to excel in this field.
1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step in becoming a certified athletic trainer is to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program. These programs typically include coursework in anatomy, physiology, exercise science, nutrition, and injury prevention. It is important to choose a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), as this will ensure that you receive the necessary education and training to become a certified athletic trainer.
2. Complete an Internship
Once you have completed your bachelor’s degree, the next step is to gain hands-on experience through an internship. Many athletic training programs require students to complete an internship before they can graduate. During your internship, you will work under the supervision of a certified athletic trainer and gain valuable experience in treating and preventing athletic injuries.
3. Pass the Board of Certification Exam
After completing your internship and earning your degree, you must pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam to become a certified athletic trainer. The BOC exam is a comprehensive test that covers a wide range of topics, including injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation. To prepare for the exam, you should review the BOC content outline and study materials, as well as consider enrolling in a review course to help you understand the material and improve your test-taking skills.
4. Obtain Professional Liability Insurance
Professional liability insurance is an important step in protecting yourself and your clients from potential legal claims. As a certified athletic trainer, you will be responsible for the care and treatment of athletes, and it is essential to have insurance to cover any potential claims that may arise.
5. Maintain Certification and Continuing Education
To maintain your certification as a certified athletic trainer, you must complete continuing education requirements. The BOC requires certified athletic trainers to earn a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) every two years to stay current with the latest research, techniques, and trends in the field. This ongoing education will help you provide the best possible care to your clients and ensure that you remain a knowledgeable and skilled professional.
6. Develop Soft Skills
In addition to technical skills, a certified athletic trainer must possess strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. You will need to work closely with athletes, coaches, and other healthcare professionals, so it is important to be able to effectively communicate and collaborate with others. Developing these soft skills will help you build a successful career as an athletic trainer.
In conclusion, becoming a certified athletic trainer is a multifaceted process that requires a combination of education, experience, and professional development. By following these steps and continuously improving your skills, you can build a rewarding career in the field of athletic training.
