Pre-Health Advising: Athletic Training Preparation

• Certified athletic trainers (ATs) don’t just tape ankles. They can specialize in the prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletes’ injuries and illnesses.
• AT programs are offered at a master's level. To develop deeper knowledge and skills, ATs can continue for a doctoral degree (PhD or EdD).
• Athletic trainers can work in various settings, including youth sports, professional sports, hospitals, performing arts, military, and government agencies.
• Certified Athletic Training Programs in Oregon: Oregon State University and Pacific University. Successful completion of the program prepares you for the Board of Certification (BOC) examination. BOC Certification (ATC) establishes the entry-level credential to work as an athletic trainer.
• Common majors pre-Athletic Training UO students pursue: Human Physiology or Multidisciplinary Science.

• Completing the prerequisite courses is just one step in preparing to apply to AT programs. Applicants must also have a well-rounded application consisting of experience (shadowing, volunteer work, undergraduate research, life experience, etc.), letters of recommendation (including one from an athletic trainer), interview (may not be required), and a strong admissions essay.
• Athletic training programs require applicants to have many observation hours with a certified athletic trainer. The amount of observation hours each program requires varies considerably. Some programs may require CPR/AEC certification prior to matriculation. Researching individual programs is important before starting the application process.
• Be sure to research individual programs about any COVID-19 related changes (prerequisite and GRE exceptions, Pass/Fail Policy, etc)

The chart below illustrates one way common requirements can fit into a 4-year plan. 

• Keep in mind that a graduation plan is as unique as the student following it - Math placement, major, transfer credits, application timeline, and other factors will help shape your graduation plan and timeline. 
• Following the "common requirements" list above will allow you to cast a wide net when applying to Athletic Training Graduate Programs. 
• The list above outlines "requirements that vary". It is recommended that students explore programs to ensure their graduation plan captures all of the requirements they need for their programs of interest.
  • Use AT Each Moment to explore Athletic Training Graduate Programs.
• Work with a pre-health advisor to solidify your graduation plan! 

Watch the Athletic Training Prerequisite Overview video.

i This course is not commonly required by AT programs. This is a co-requisite/prerequisite for General Chemistry I.

ii These courses are prerequisites for UO’s anatomy & physiology sequence. They are not typically prerequisites for AT programs.

Questions? Email pre-health advisors at prehealthadvising@uoregon.edu.