Career roadmap
How to Become an Athletic Trainer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an athletic trainer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an athletic trainer: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete a CAATE-accredited master’s, (3) pass the BOC exam, (4) get licensed, (5) advance. Most people need about Bachelor’s plus 2-year master’s. BLS lists “master's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an athletic trainer
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Take science prerequisites.
Complete a CAATE-accredited master’s
Include clinical experiences.
Pass the BOC exam
Earn the ATC credential.
Get licensed
Meet state requirements.
Advance
Become a head athletic trainer or specialize.
Education and training requirements
Athletic trainers need a master’s degree from a program accredited by CAATE, must pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam and meet state requirements.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Master's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Bachelor’s plus 2-year master’s |
Certifications and licenses
- BOC Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC): National certification for athletic trainers.
- State athletic trainer license: Required in nearly all states.
- Emergency cardiac care certification: Such as BLS for healthcare providers.
- Performance enhancement certifications: Such as NSCA-CSCS.
Skills to build now
Start with injury evaluation, emergency care, and taping and bracing, and practice calm under pressure and communication. Learning the athletic trainer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Graduate Athletic Trainer: Gain clinical experience.
- Athletic Trainer: Care for athletes.
- Head Athletic Trainer: Lead sports medicine programs.
- Director of Sports Medicine: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Athletic Trainer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do athletic trainers need a master’s degree?
Yes, from a CAATE-accredited program.
How long does it take to become an athletic trainer?
Most people need about Bachelor’s plus 2-year master’s of training. Athletic trainers need a master’s degree from a program accredited by CAATE, must pass the Board of Certification (BOC) exam and meet state requirements.
Do you need a degree to be an athletic trainer?
Yes. Athletic trainers now need a master’s degree from a CAATE-accredited program and must pass the BOC exam.
What certifications are available for athletic trainers?
Common credentials include BOC Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), State athletic trainer license, Emergency cardiac care certification, and Performance enhancement certifications. Nearly all states regulate athletic trainers, typically requiring BOC certification. Athletic trainers work under the direction of physicians.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-9091 (Athletic trainers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Athletic trainers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.