Department of Athletic Training

Athletic Training is a recognized health care profession specializing in the prevention, evaluation, care, and rehabilitation of injuries resulting from physical activity.  As the importance of wellness and physical activity grows, the need for skilled healthcare professionals such as athletic trainers is increasing rapidly.

The department of kinesiology at TLU offers a curriculum leading to a Bachelor of Science degree in athletic training. The TLU athletic training education program is accredited through the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).  Graduates of the athletic training education program are eligible for Texas state licensure and national certification through the NATABOC.  Students may pursue a secondary school teacher certification or use the degree as a basis for further education in the healthcare field.

Career Opportunities
The athletic training education program is firmly anchored in the tradition of the liberal arts. Graduates of the athletic training program possess not only the most up-to-date professional skills and knowledge but also a broad base of understanding across many subjects. This ensures flexibility in career choices as well as the satisfaction of practicing athletic training professionally.

Some specific settings that athletic trainers are employed include high schools, college or universities, professional sports teams, hospitals or physician offices, outpatient sports medicine clinics, industrial or corporate wellness, military and law enforcement, and in the performing arts.

Special Opportunities
TLU has 14 NCAA Division III athletic teams with which students will gain experience with.  Experiences include travel with individual teams, evaluation of injuries, creating rehabilitation programs, meeting with coaches and other athletics staff, and observing physician office visits and surgical procedures.  Athletic training students gain further clinical experience by working in physician offices, physical therapy clinics and local area high schools