About Our Program

Mission

The mission of the nationally-accredited Athletic Training Education Program at Ball State University is to prepare qualified entry-level athletic trainers for the Athletic Training profession. Coursework and clinical components are blended to develop knowledge and skills in risk management and injury prevention; pathology of injuries and illnesses; assessment and evaluation; acute care of injury and illness; pharmacology; therapeutic modalities; therapeutic exercise; general medical conditions and disabilities; nutritional aspects of injury and illness; psychosocial intervention and referral; health care administration; and professional development and responsibilities. Athletic Training employment settings include sports medicine clinics, high schools (including teaching), colleges/universities, industrial settings and professional sports.

A strong emphasis is placed on clinical experiences, which allow the athletic training student to practice theories and concepts learned in the classroom. These experiences include working with upper extremity, lower extremity, general medical, and equipment intensive sports, and in practicums/internships at local high schools and sport medicine clinics. These experiences are invaluable in preparing the student for athletic training employment settings.

Goals

The goals of the Ball State University Athletic Training Education Program are:

1. To provide quality evidence based athletic training didactic education.
2. To provide quality athletic training clinical education in a variety of settings (e.g., college/university, high school, clinic).
3. To provide students with ample opportunities for clinical skill instruction and evaluation.
4. To guide students in the development of their core professional attitudes/behaviors.
5. To prepare quality entry-level athletic training professionals for employment in a variety of settings (e.g., college/university, high school, clinic).
6. To assist students in gaining employment or admittance into graduate school.To prepare students to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) Examination.