Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training

The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at Kansas State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in sports medicine and allied health fields. This rigorous undergraduate program combines core sciences, clinical practice, and professional development to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, prevent, and rehabilitate injuries among athletes and active individuals. Students will engage in rigorous coursework in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and injury management, alongside hands-on clinical experiences supervised by certified athletic trainers. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical standards, and patient-centered care, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification and licensure in athletic training. Kansas State University’s state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with local sports teams and healthcare providers offer students unique opportunities for practical application and real-world learning. Through internships and practicum experiences, students develop essential skills in injury assessment, emergency care, rehabilitation techniques, and health education. The program also emphasizes professionalism, communication skills, and lifelong learning, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in sports teams, schools, healthcare facilities, or graduate education. Graduates of the Athletic Training program are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam, which is required for national certification in athletic training. The program maintains a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and community service, fostering a commitment to improving athlete health and wellness. With dedicated faculty, extensive resources, and a supportive learning environment, Kansas State University’s Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training offers an educational foundation that prepares students to excel in the dynamic and growing field of athletic health care.

The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at Kansas State University prepares students to become skilled healthcare professionals dedicated to the prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses related to sports and physical activity. This comprehensive program combines classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, and clinical practice to develop a strong foundation in sports medicine, human anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and injury management. Students will engage in coursework that covers behavioral health, pathology, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice, ensuring they acquire the critical knowledge needed to support athletes and active individuals. Emphasis is placed on developing practical skills through clinical internships and hands-on learning in various healthcare settings, including athletic training rooms, schools, and community clinics. The program also fosters professionalism, communication, and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates to work collaboratively with athletes, coaches, physicians, and other healthcare providers. Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for certification examinations such as the Board of Certification (BOC) in Athletic Training, which is required for national licensure and practice. The athletic training curriculum at Kansas State University is designed to meet the standards set by accrediting bodies, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to excel in diverse environments and advance in their careers as athletic trainers. Throughout the program, students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a network of clinical sites that enhance experiential learning. Whether pursuing roles in collegiate sports, team physician offices, outpatient clinics, or other health-related settings, graduates of this program will be prepared to deliver high-quality care and make meaningful contributions to athlete health and well-being.

Program Requirements: The Athletic Training program at Kansas State University is designed to prepare students for certification as athletic trainers. Prospective students must complete a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Athletic Training. Admission to the program requires the completion of prerequisite coursework including anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as a minimum GPA as specified by the department. Applicants are also expected to gain practical experience through observation hours or internships in athletic training settings. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training, covering topics such as injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletes. Students are required to complete specified coursework in injury management, Kinesiology, nutrition, and sports psychology. Additionally, students must participate in clinical education experiences under the supervision of certified athletic trainers to develop practical skills. To graduate from the program, students must successfully complete all coursework, fulfill clinical hour requirements, and pass a comprehensive examination as mandated by the Board of Certification. The program emphasizes safety, ethics, and professional responsibility, preparing students for entry-level positions in sports medicine, schools, or healthcare facilities. Overall, the Athletic Training program combines academic learning with practical application, requiring dedication and adherence to professional standards.

The Athletic Training program at Kansas State University offers diverse options for students seeking financing to support their education. Tuition and fees for undergraduate students are published annually and are subject to change; currently, in-state students pay approximately $10,000 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $25,000 annually. These costs include tuition, student service fees, and technology fees, with additional expenses for books, supplies, and personal costs. The university provides a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Prospective students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal aid programs. Kansas State University offers merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students, which can significantly reduce the financial burden, and many of these are renewable each year based on academic performance. The university also participates in state and federal grant programs designed to assist students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, student employment opportunities are available both on and off campus, allowing students to gain work experience while earning money to support their studies. Some students may also consider private loans or external scholarship programs specific to sports medicine or athletic training fields. International students enrolled in the Athletic Training program should explore specific scholarship options and may need to demonstrate English proficiency scores and provide proof of funding to secure their visas and enrollment. Financial planning is encouraged early in the academic journey, and students are advised to consult the Kansas State University Office of Student Financial Assistance for personalized guidance. The university additionally offers payment plans that allow students to spread tuition payments over multiple installments during a semester. For graduate students pursuing advanced degrees or certifications in Athletic Training, funding opportunities may include assistantships, fellowships, and departmental scholarships, often requiring a separate application process. Overall, Kansas State University strives to make Athletic Training education accessible through comprehensive financial support programs and services, helping students focus on their academic and professional development in the dynamic field of sports medicine.

The Athletic Training program at Kansas State University is designed to prepare students for a career as a certified athletic trainer, a healthcare professional responsible for the prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of injuries related to sports and physical activity. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom instruction, laboratory experience, and clinical practice to develop the necessary skills and knowledge for effective athletic training. Students will study subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and emergency care, alongside specialized courses in therapeutic interventions, injury prevention, and rehabilitation techniques. The program emphasizes hands-on training through clinical rotations in various sports settings, including university athletic programs, clinics, and community organizations, enabling students to gain practical experience under the supervision of licensed athletic trainers and healthcare professionals.

Kansas State University’s Athletic Training program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), ensuring that it meets high standards of educational quality and professional preparation. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) examination, which is required to become a licensed athletic trainer. The program also fosters professional development through opportunities for research, participation in professional organizations, and attending industry conferences. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in high schools, colleges, healthcare facilities, sports medicine clinics, and military settings. The university’s commitment to student success is reflected in its dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and robust internship opportunities that support students in building a strong foundation for their future careers. The athletic training program at Kansas State University strives to produce competent, compassionate, and ethical professionals dedicated to improving athlete health and performance.