Question 1

How much do Athletic Trainers make?

Accepted Answer

Athletic Trainers earn a national median salary of $82,935 per year, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Entry-level Athletic Trainers (10th percentile) earn around $48,570. Experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn $84,100 or more. The highest-paying states for Athletic Trainers include DC ($118K), Arkansas ($116K), and Utah ($100K).

Question 2

What does an Athletic Trainer do?

Accepted Answer

Work in consultation with, and under the supervision of physicians to prevent and treat sports injuries and associated conditions. Common day-to-day tasks include prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts, keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences, and evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers. Athletic Trainers typically work in High schools and colleges, Professional and amateur sports teams, Sports medicine and orthopedic clinics.

Question 3

How long does it take to become an Athletic Trainer?

Accepted Answer

Most Athletic Trainer training programs take 6mo-1.6yr to complete. Programs typically lead to a certificate or diploma and cover hands-on skills needed for entry-level positions. You can search and compare Athletic Trainer programs at TradeSchoolGo to find one that fits your schedule and budget.

Question 4

Is Athletic Trainer a good career?

Accepted Answer

The Athletic Trainer field is projected to see 14.2% job growth, which is faster than average for all occupations, with approximately 14,900 job openings annually. Demand may rise as schools, colleges, and sports organizations expand injury-prevention and return-to-play protocols. Growth in sports participation and employer wellness programs can also increase the need for on-site injury evaluation and rehabilitation support.

Question 5

What skills do I need to become an Athletic Trainer?

Accepted Answer

Key skills for Athletic Trainers include Injury assessment and clinical decision-making, First aid and emergency response, Therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation planning, Anatomy, biomechanics, and kinesiology knowledge, and Clear documentation and recordkeeping. These skills are developed through formal training programs and on-the-job experience.

Question 6

What is the work environment like for an Athletic Trainer?

Accepted Answer

Athletic Trainers typically work in High schools and colleges, Professional and amateur sports teams, Sports medicine and orthopedic clinics, Hospitals and outpatient rehabilitation centers, Fitness centers and wellness programs. Many roles follow a set schedule but often include evenings, weekends, and travel tied to practices and games, with moderate time pressure during events. Work involves frequent standing and moving around practices or treatment areas, plus hands-on patient care and equipment handling. You may need to lift, tape, brace, and assist injured athletes, with some bending and repetitive motions.

Question 7

What are the pros and cons of being an Athletic Trainer?

Accepted Answer

Advantages of an Athletic Trainer career include direct impact on injury prevention and recovery, variety of work across sports, ages, and settings, and strong teamwork with physicians, coaches, and therapists. Challenges to consider: the Athletic Trainer trade can involve evenings, weekends, and irregular hours during seasons, high responsibility during emergencies and acute injuries, and physically demanding, hands-on work.

Question 8

How much does Athletic Trainer school cost?

Accepted Answer

Athletic Trainer training program costs vary depending on the school, location, and program length. Certificate programs are generally less expensive than associate degree programs. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants may be available to help cover costs. Browse and compare Athletic Trainer programs with tuition information on TradeSchoolGo.

Question 9

Can I become an Athletic Trainer without a college degree?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Athletic Trainer careers typically require a certificate or diploma from a trade school or vocational program, not a four-year college degree. Most programs take 6mo-1.6yr to complete and focus on hands-on, practical training. Some Athletic Trainers also enter the field through apprenticeship programs that combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Athletic Trainer

What Athletic Trainers Do

Common Tasks

Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

What You'll Learn

Types of Athletic Trainers

Work Environment

Locations

Schedule

Physical Demands

Salary & Job Outlook

Top Paying States

Why Demand May Grow

Skills You'll Need

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Common Questions About the Athletic Trainer Trade

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