Athletic Training

The Program

Western Carolina University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training. The undergraduate Athletic Training Education Program is housed in the Department of Health Sciences. The program is completing its application for accreditation with the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) in 2006 and will have its initial accreditation site visit in spring of 2007. 

The three-year professional program combines intensive classroom and clinical education. Students interested in athletic training education must meet admission requirements and formally apply to the program prior to December 15th (for early admission) or prior to April 15^th (for regular admission). Once admitted, athletic training students begin a rigorous, educational program that combines didactic, psychomotor and affective competencies and clinical proficiencies necessary to become a successful athletic trainer.

The focus of the Athletic Training Education Program is to promote critical thinking and problem solving in a hands-on curriculum which exposes students to a wide variety of clinical education opportunities. The faculty and staff of Western's Athletic Training Education Program are committed to each student's success and to building strong, competent athletic training professionals.

Athletic Training Education Program timeline:

Spring 2004 - Received Candidacy Status
2004-2006 - Program Completes Candidacy Status
Summer 2006 - CAATE Self-Study Completed
Spring 2007 - CAATE Site Visit
May 2007 - First Graduating Class Completes Program