Opportunities with an Athletic Training Degree

If you are passionate about anatomy and physiology, and you enjoy helping others, a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training may be the degree for you. Athletic trainers specialize in preventing, diagnosing and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses (“Athletic Trainers,” 2015).

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of athletic trainers is expected to grow 21 percent from 2014 to 2024, which is must faster than the average for all occupations. Therefore, now is a great time to pursue a career in the field.

Grand Canyon University is a great place to earn an athletic training degree. Continue reading to learn about the degree and potential career outcomes.

Earn an Athletic Training Degree

The athletic training degree offered by GCU’s College of Nursing and Health Care Professions prepares you to work with clients and their healthcare providers. Learn to apply skills in hands-on laboratory classes and clinical rotations in rehabilitation facilities. In addition, you have the unique opportunity to participate in the Athletic Training Student Club. This club allows you to network and develop relationships in a Christian environment.

The athletic training degree takes you through topics such as anatomy and physiology, the prevention of athletic injuries and how to care for them if they occur, clinical instruction on taping and bracing, the physiology of exercise and strength, and conditioning theory and practice. You also receive education in administration and professional responsibility related to managing athletic-related injuries and illnesses.

Find a Fulfilling Career

Upon graduating from an athletic training program, you will be prepared to take the Board of Certification Examination. Certified athletic trainers work with athletes of all ages and skill levels. Many athletic trainers work with other healthcare workers in order to discuss injuries and treatment options, and they may meet with team physicians regularly. They are an integral part of the healthcare team, as they typically are one of the first people on the scene when injuries occur (“Athletic Trainers,” 2015). For this reason, athletic trainers are qualified to work in a variety of settings, such as high schools, colleges and universities, professional sports and clinics.

A career in athletic training can be very exciting, as the field is continuing to grow. Individuals who are passionate about helping athletes prevent and overcome injuries can earn an athletic training degree to pursue a fulfilling career.

Grand Canyon University’s College of Nursing and Health Care Professions prepares students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. To learn more about GCU, visit our website!

Written by Lauren Abraham, a junior majoring in communications at GCU.

References:

• Athletic Trainers. (2015). Retrieved from bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/athletic-trainers.htm#tab-2