An athletic trainer is a certified health care professional recognized by the American Medical Association who helps treat and prevent injuries in a variety of settings. Athletic trainers treat clients and patients ranging from professional athletes to industrial workers.

Education

Athletic trainers usually hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. They take courses in human anatomy, kinesiology, physiology and nutrition. They need to be licensed and receive certification from the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Certification.

Employment

The greatest percentage of athletic trainers work in jobs related to sports. Many also work in hospitals, other health care settings and recreational sports centers.

Earnings

Most athletic trainers are full-time employees who receive benefits. According to the Occupation Employment Statistics survey program, in May 2006 the median annual earnings for athletic trainers were $36,560.

Work Environment

The day-to-day work of an athletic trainer requires interaction with clients and patients, many of whom are athletes. Work may involve discussing possible treatments of an injury, helping to rehabilitate an injury, or dealing with other health-related issues. Athletic trainers involved in sports often work longer hours than those in non-sports settings because of travel and variable schedules.

Job Projections

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, athletic trainer employment is expected to see 24 percent growth from 2006 to 2016, with most of this growth in the health care industry. Numbers of positions with sports teams will increase more slowly because many teams are already fully staffed.

Source:

Bureau of Labor Statistics: Athletic Trainers

Resource:

Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer

Central Michigan University: Athletic Training Education Program