Athletic Training Major
Introduction
The Athletic Training Education Program (ATEP) is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Athletic training is an allied health profession dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries that result from physical activity. Students studying this field at APU will complete coursework in the areas of first aid and CPR, risk management, assessment and evaluation of injuries/illnesses, therapeutic modalities and exercise, pharmacology, general medical conditions, health care administration and research. In addition, students will complete clinical experiences with a diverse population of patients at numerous clinical sites in the practical application of learned skills and knowledge. The ATEP is designed to be completed in four years, which includes three semesters of pre-professional coursework and clinical observation and five semesters of professional coursework and clinical experiences. Students who transfer, or participate in intercollegiate athletics, or whose time may be limited for other reasons, should anticipate additional academic time necessary to complete the major.
The requirements of the major are consistent with the recommended standards established by CAATE. In order to be retained in the major, all athletic training students must maintain a 2.5 cumulative GPA with no grade lower than C in major classes. Upon completion of the ATEP, and university requirements, students will be eligible to sit for the Board of Certification, Inc. examination to become a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC).
Benefits and Distinctives
- Gain a well-rounded education through course work and clinical experiences.
- Work with patients and physically active people.
- Work with people in an allied health profession.
- Prepare for the national certification exam for athletic training administered by the Board of Certification, Inc.
Career Opportunities
Athletic Training provides preparation for entry-level positions at the high school, college, and professional sports levels. In addition, students are prepared for positions in sports medicine clinics, industries, and corporations. High schools, colleges, and sports medicine clinics are actively pursuing Azusa Pacific University alumni. The graduates of the ATEP have established careers in many areas, including the following:
- Athletic training education
- Interscholastic programs/Secondary school teaching
- Intercollegiate sports
- Private and Industrial fitness and wellness centers
- Professional sports
- Sports medicine clinics
Clinical Education Experiences
All athletic training majors complete five semesters of clinical education experiences both at Azusa Pacific University and at clinical affiliated sites. Students can expect to spend at least two clinical rotations at off-campus sites which may include: Athletic Rehabilitation Center, CD Chivas USA Major League Soccer, Center for Medicine and Sport, Diamond Bar High School, Fortanasce and Associates Physical Therapy/Sports Medicine Center, Healthcare Partners, Pasadena City College, Walnut High School, Webb Schools, and other sport performance or rehabilitation centers.
Graduate School
The undergraduate program prepares athletic trainers to enter the profession or pursue post-professional education, which may include NATA-approved graduate programs, physical therapy, or other allied health programs. APU athletic training alumni have obtained graduate assistant athletic training positions at Boise State University; Cal State Fullerton; Portland State University; San Jose State University; Stanford University; University of La Verne; University of Toledo; and West Texas A&M University. Students have also secured athletic training internship positions with Cal Poly San Luis Obispo; CD Chivas USA (MLS); Colorado Rockies (MLB); Detroit Lions (NFL); LA Galaxy (MLS); Michigan State University; Washington Nationals (MLB); and University of Maryland.
Faculty and Clinical Instructors
The ATEP faculty and clinical instructors bring varied backgrounds and experiences in athletic training to their instruction and practice of athletic training. From over 20 years of experience, to Certified Athletic Trainer graduate interns, these individuals value the teachable moment and foster learning over time, with the goal of preparing athletic training students to become valuable members of the athletic training profession.
APU Faculty Highlights
- Chris Schmidt, PhD, ATC, program
director, ATEP
Email: cschmidt@apu.edu - Phil Ford, PhD, ATC, clinical education coordinator,
ATEP
Email: pford@apu.edu - Cynthia M. McKnight, PhD, ATC, associate
professor, ATEP
Email: cmcknight@apu.edu
“The Athletic Training Education Program at APU not only prepared me for a professional position, but prepared me for life in general. The lessons I learned while on the field, in the athletic training room, or in the classroom will follow me through the rest of my life. You won’t be able to find a faculty and staff as interested in the student as a whole as you find here.”
Amanda Snyder ’07
Athletic Training
“The APU Athletic Training Education Program has assisted in my discovery of where the Lord wants to use me within the field of athletic training. I’ve gathered vision, developed ability and sharpened my knowledge to serve in the athletic training profession as an educated Christian woman.”
Noelle Bridges ’06
Athletic Training
