Athletic trainers are passionate about the workings of the human body. Whether working directly with professional athletes to prevent injury or helping those recovering from surgery, these professionals help keep clients moving forward. 

But what exactly do athletic trainers do? What is the job outlook for an athletic trainer? What is the salary for an athletic trainer with a master’s degree?

We’re here to answer all your questions about becoming an athletic trainer. 

What Do Athletic Trainers Do? 

Athletic training "encompasses the prevention, examination, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of emergent, acute or chronic injuries and medical conditions." Certified athletic trainers work everywhere from hospital emergency departments and sports medicine clinics to secondary schools, industrial settings, and professional sports teams — treating their clients for injuries and helping them master their athletic craft.

Because their knowledge base of the body is so broad, athletic trainers can apply their expertise in various positions. Some of the most common are:

• Strength and conditioning coaches: strength and conditioning coaches often work with athletes to improve their gameplay and stamina. They may work as personal trainers in private settings at local fitness centers or at large-scale clinics.
  
  
• Military positions: athletic trainers can work in the military to help treat long-term injuries. They work with doctors to develop treatment plans and help keep their fellow soldiers strong. 
  
  
• Professional athletic trainer: some athletic trainers make it big and work with professional athletes to make players the best they can be. This type of position combines the responsibilities of a physical therapist and a personal trainer to holistically care for athletes, no matter their condition. 

How Do You Become an Athletic Trainer?

Certified athletic trainers are highly-qualified, skilled health care professionals that work in collaboration with physicians. And often, professionals need a master's degree in athletic training in order to break into the field.

A Master of Science in Athletic Training is a professional degree that provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to become certified athletic trainers. Athletic trainers must graduate from a CAATE-accredited program (such as Neumann University's own graduate athletic training program). 

What is the Job Outlook for an Athletic Trainer?

The job market for athletic trainers is on the rise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the number of jobs in this field to increase by 23 percent by 2030. 

A job growth rate of 23 percent means that nearly 3,100 new athletic training jobs will emerge every year for the next decade, making plenty of room for the next wave of professional athletic trainers. 

Salaries for athletic trainers with a master's degree range by state.

We’ve broken down some local estimates: 

Ready to obtain a master's in athletic training? Connect with Neumann University!

Neumann University’s Master of Science in Athletic Training gives you the knowledge base and practical training you need to help people live their most mobile and healthy lives. With 43 credits, our program can be completed in two years. 

NU’s master’s in athletic training is aligned with the competencies and proficiencies established and upheld by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association and Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. We use a hybrid format to make the most of online learning and in-person training. 

If you want to learn more about our program, request more information. If you’re ready to start your journey today, you can start your online application.

Check out our digital guide — A Comprehensive Guide to
Pursuing an MS in Athletic Training!