Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training

The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a successful career in athletic training and sports medicine. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to ensure graduates are well-equipped to assess, prevent, and rehabilitate injuries in athletes and physically active individuals. Students in this program will engage in a rigorous course of study that includes biological sciences, human anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and injury prevention. Additionally, the program offers specialized coursework in emergency care, therapeutic interventions, modalities, and rehabilitation techniques tailored to athletic populations.

Throughout the program, students gain hands-on clinical experience under the supervision of experienced athletic trainers, working with teams across various sports and physical activities. This practical component allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, developing critical thinking, decision-making, and communication skills essential for effective athletic training. The program also emphasizes professionalism, ethics, and evidence-based practices to prepare students for certification and licensure standards required in the athletic training field.

Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam, which is necessary to become a certified athletic trainer. The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University aims to produce knowledgeable, skilled, and ethical professionals dedicated to enhancing athlete health and safety. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and diverse clinical opportunities, students are supported in achieving their educational and career aspirations. This program serves as a strong foundation for those interested in advancing to graduate studies in athletic training, sports medicine, or related health sciences, as well as for those seeking immediate entry into professional roles in sports teams, schools, clinics, and healthcare settings.

The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in sports medicine and athletic healthcare. This program combines rigorous classroom instruction, hands-on clinical experiences, and professional development opportunities to ensure graduates are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of athletes and active individuals across various settings. Throughout the program, students learn vital skills such as injury prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation, along with the principles of exercise science, nutrition, and emergency care. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and ethical decision-making, fostering a strong foundation in the clinical and theoretical aspects of athletic training. Students engage in supervised practical experiences, working with university athletic teams, local sports organizations, and healthcare providers to gain real-world skills. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), ensuring that graduates meet national standards required for certification. Upon completion, students are prepared to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam, which is essential for licensure and practice as a certified athletic trainer. The faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and supporting their academic and career goals. Graduates of the program are trained to work in various settings, including school districts, hospitals, clinics, professional sports teams, and corporate wellness programs. The program also emphasizes leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, which are vital for success in the dynamic field of athletic training. Whether students aspire to work with elite athletes, youth sports, or general populations, the Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University provides a balanced and thorough education to help them excel in their professional journey.

Program Requirements:

The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University prepares students to become certified athletic trainers who provide healthcare to athletes and active individuals. To graduate with this major, students must complete a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, and clinical practicum. The program typically requires completion of approximately 120-130 credit hours, including general education courses, athletic training coursework, and practical experiences.

Students are expected to complete prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics to establish a foundational understanding of human health and movement. The program emphasizes courses in athletic training principles, risk management, injury prevention, assessments and diagnoses, therapeutic interventions, and evidence-based practice. Additionally, students must participate in supervised clinical rotations across various sports and settings to develop practical skills under the guidance of certified athletic trainers.

Throughout the program, students are required to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA as specified by the university, often around 2.75-3.0, and must meet progression standards through each academic year. The program also mandates successful completion of a national certification examination administered by the Board of Certification (BOC) in Athletic Training to attain professional credentials.

Furthermore, students are expected to complete specialized courses in nutrition, psychology, biomechanics, and emergency care. Throughout their training, students engage in ongoing professional development, including attending seminars, workshops, and conferences related to athletic training. Ethical standards and adherence to the NATA Code of Ethics are emphasized throughout the program.

In sum, the Athletic Training program is designed to produce well-rounded, competent healthcare professionals equipped to work in diverse athletic and clinical environments. Program completion requires fulfillment of coursework, clinical practices, and compliance with accreditation standards before graduation and certification eligibility.

The Athletic Training program at South Dakota State University offers a comprehensive approach to preparing students for careers in sports medicine and injury management. Tuition for in-state students is approximately $10,776 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $13,776 annually. Additional fees include a general student fee of about $1,200 per year, covering campus facilities and resources, and specific program-related fees for laboratory and clinical components, which can amount to approximately $500 per semester. The program may also require students to purchase necessary equipment and supplies, estimated at $300 to $600 for specialized athletic training gear.

Financial aid options available to students include federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. South Dakota State University participates in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), allowing eligible students to apply for federal grants such as the Pell Grant, which can provide significant support based on financial need. The university's scholarship office offers various scholarships tailored for health sciences and athletic training students, which can offset tuition costs and related expenses. Scholarships are merit-based, need-based, or application-specific, and students are encouraged to apply early to maximize their chances of receiving aid.

Graduate students in the Athletic Training program may also qualify for assistantships, which involve working in clinical or research capacities in exchange for stipends and tuition waivers. To support students in managing costs, South Dakota State University offers installment payment plans, enabling students to spread tuition payments across the semester. On-campus employment opportunities are available for students seeking part-time work to supplement their income, which also provides valuable practical experience.

Overall, financing a degree in Athletic Training at South Dakota State University involves careful planning of tuition, fees, equipment costs, and securing financial aid. The university’s commitment to affordability and support services helps students manage their educational expenses effectively. Prospective students are encouraged to explore scholarships, federal aid, and other financial resources early in their academic planning to ensure a smooth and financially sustainable educational experience.

The athletic training program at South Dakota State University is designed to prepare students for a career in athletic training, a vital component of healthcare for Athletes and physically active individuals. The program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom learning with practical hands-on experiences, allowing students to develop the skills necessary to assess, treat, and prevent injuries related to sports and physical activities. Students study anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and emergency care, gaining a solid foundation in the sciences relevant to athletic health. The program incorporates clinical education, where students work under the supervision of licensed Athletic Trainers in various settings, including university athletic teams, clinics, and hospitals, providing real-world experience and applying theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.

South Dakota State University’s Athletic Training program adheres to the standards set by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), ensuring a nationally recognized level of quality and professionalism. Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam, which is required to become a licensed Athletic Trainer in the United States. The program also emphasizes the development of professional skills such as communication, teamwork, and ethical practice, which are essential for effective patient care and collaboration within interdisciplinary health care teams.

Students benefit from dedicated faculty who are experienced clinicians and scholars committed to student success. The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including modern athletic training labs and clinics equipped with the latest technology for injury prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation. The program also promotes research opportunities and encourages students to engage in scholarly activities to deepen their understanding of sports medicine and athletic health.

Graduates of South Dakota State University’s Athletic Training program can pursue diverse career paths, including working with collegiate and professional athletic teams, healthcare facilities, schools, and sports performance centers. The program’s comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the profession, advance in their careers, and contribute positively to the health and well-being of the individuals and communities they serve.