Athletic Training Program

The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a career in athletic training and sports medicine. This program combines rigorous coursework, practical clinical experiences, and dedicated faculty mentorship to develop skilled professionals capable of delivering quality care to athletes and active individuals across various settings. Students in this program gain a strong foundation in human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, pathology, and rehabilitation techniques. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, professionalism, and ethical decision-making necessary for advancing in the field. Throughout their academic journey, students participate in supervised clinical internships, working directly with athletes and patients under the guidance of certified athletic trainers and healthcare professionals. These real-world experiences enable students to develop essential skills such as injury prevention, recognition, assessment, and rehabilitation, preparing them for certification and employment in schools, sports organizations, clinics, and healthcare facilities. South Dakota State University's Athletic Training Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), ensuring adherence to national standards and quality education. The program also emphasizes leadership, communication, and lifetime learning, fostering well-rounded professionals equipped to adapt to the evolving demands of sports medicine. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam required for professional credentialing as an Athletic Trainer. With a commitment to student success and community engagement, the program provides ongoing support, research opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Whether students aspire to work with collegiate athletes, professional sports teams, or in healthcare settings, the Athletic Training Program at South Dakota State University offers a solid foundation and the practical experience necessary to excel in this dynamic field.

The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a professional career in athletic training and sports health care. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework, practical clinical experiences, and professional development to ensure graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of athletic trainers in a variety of settings. Students in this program will gain a solid foundation in human anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and injury prevention, as well as assessment and rehabilitation techniques. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, and the importance of teamwork in sports medicine.

Throughout their studies, students participate in hands-on clinical experiences under the supervision of certified athletic trainers. These practicums take place in diverse environments, including athletic teams, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. The program also provides opportunities for research, professional seminars, and certification preparation, aiming to produce competent, confident, and ethical practitioners.

The athletic training program at South Dakota State University adheres to the standards set by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), ensuring that students receive high-quality education aligned with national requirements. Upon successful completion of the program and passing the Board of Certification (BOC) exam, graduates are eligible to become Certified Athletic Trainers (ATCs). The program’s emphasis on both academic excellence and practical skills helps students to succeed in their careers and contribute positively to the health and performance of athletes in various settings. With a dedicated faculty, modern facilities, and a commitment to student success, South Dakota State University’s Athletic Training program offers a robust pathway into the dynamic field of sports medicine.

The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare them for certification and careers in athletic training. The program includes foundational coursework in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and biology, as well as specialized courses in injury assessment, rehabilitation techniques, and therapeutic modalities. Students participate in extensive clinical experiences, working with athletic teams and healthcare professionals to develop practical skills in injury prevention, emergency care, and treatment planning. The program emphasizes hands-on training in realistic settings, ensuring students are proficient in taping, bracing, and using diagnostic tools. Additionally, students are expected to complete coursework in psychology, nutrition, and healthcare administration to provide a well-rounded education. The curriculum is structured to meet the standards set by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), with a focus on evidence-based practice and ethical patient care. Prospective students must complete prerequisite courses in sciences and nursing before entering the professional phase of the program. Admission typically involves a competitive application process, which may include prerequisite GPA requirements, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam to become certified athletic trainers. The program also supports students’ continued education and professional development through workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. Overall, the athletic training program at South Dakota State University is designed to produce competent, ethical, and highly skilled athletic trainers who are prepared to work in a variety of sports medicine settings, including schools, sports teams, clinics, and hospitals.

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Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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The Athletic Training program at South Dakota State University offers a comprehensive approach to preparing students for careers in sports medicine and injury prevention. As an accredited program, it provides students with the necessary knowledge and practical experience to pursue certification as an athletic trainer. Regarding financial aspects, students have access to a variety of funding options to support their educational journey. These include federal and state financial aid programs, scholarships specific to the university, and departmental scholarships awarded based on academic achievement and extracurricular involvement. The university's financial aid office assists students in navigating the application process for various grants and loans, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to quality education. Additionally, students enrolled in the Athletic Training program may participate in work-study opportunities or assistantship positions within the Department of Exercise Science for additional financial support. Tuition costs are competitive relative to similar programs regionally, and in-state residents benefit from lower rates, making the program accessible to a broad spectrum of students. The university also encourages students to seek externships, internships, or part-time employment in related fields which can help offset educational expenses while gaining valuable experience. Overall, South Dakota State University is committed to providing financial resources and support to help students successfully complete the Athletic Training program and advance their careers in sports medicine.

The Athletic Training program at South Dakota State University is designed to prepare students for careers as certified athletic trainers, who are healthcare professionals specializing in the prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of injuries sustained during physical activity and sports. The program combines classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, and practical fieldwork to ensure students develop comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary for effective athletic healthcare delivery. The curriculum covers areas such as human anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, injury management, and therapeutic modalities, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and current standards in athletic training. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in different sports settings, working directly with athletes under the supervision of certified athletic trainers and faculty members. This experiential learning builds confidence and competence in injury assessment, emergency care, therapeutic interventions, and rehabilitation protocols.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), ensuring that it meets national standards for education quality and prepares graduates for the Board of Certification (BOC) examination required to become a licensed athletic trainer. The degree offered is typically a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Athletic Training, but the university might also offer graduate-level options in related health sciences fields.

Students enrolled in the program benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and access to modern laboratories and sports facilities. Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and fostering research opportunities in sports medicine, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. The program promotes professional development through participation in conferences, workshops, and networking with practicing athletic trainers and sports health organizations. Graduates of the Athletic Training program at South Dakota State University are well-prepared to pursue certification and employment in diverse settings such as high schools, colleges, professional sports, clinics, and hospitals, contributing to athlete health and safety.

The program also emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competence, and lifelong learning to adapt to advancements in sports medicine and healthcare. Overall, South Dakota State University’s Athletic Training program aims to produce competent, compassionate, and ethically grounded healthcare professionals dedicated to optimizing athletic performance and athlete well-being across the lifespan.