"Castleton had a major influence on where I am today."
B.S. in Health Science/Pre-AT + Master of Athletic Training
As a Health Science major with a concentration in Pre-Athletic Training at Castleton, you will gain valuable hands-on experience in combination with classroom learning. This accelerated program in Pre-Athletic Training provides students with an overview of the Athletic Training profession and prepares them for Castleton’s Master of Athletic Training program.
Pre-Athletic Training Program Overview
Castleton’s program allows you to complete a Bachelor of Science in Health Science: Pre-Athletic Training combined with a Master of Athletic Training (MAT) degree in just five years, and be eligible to take the Board of Certification Examination (BOC) upon program completion. This structure saves you time and reduces the total cost of your education.
Students also have the option of completing a four-year Health Science degree before applying to the two-year Master of Athletic Training program.
Why Study Pre-Athletic training at Castleton?
- Prepare for Grad School. Students in the program get a head-start on their Master of Athletic Training (MAT).
- An Accelerated Program. You will earn your undergraduate degree in the traditional four years but will start working toward your master's degree as a senior, saving you both time and money.
- Gain Access to a network of alumni that can help jumpstart your career. Castleton’s Athletic Training graduates are employed by high schools, colleges, sports teams, and in healthcare settings, and are willing to help new graduates find successful careers.
Request more information about Castleton's Health Science: Pre-Athletic Training major →
What is an Athletic Trainer?
Athletic trainers (ATs) are highly qualified, multi-skilled health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to provide preventative services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions.
Learn more about Athletic Training →
Job Outlook for Athletic Trainers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of athletic trainers is projected to grow 16 percent from 2019 through 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
As people become more aware of sports-related injuries at a young age, the demand for athletic trainers is expected to increase.
What Careers Can I Pursue with a Health Science: Pre-Athletic Training Degree?
Graduates of the Castleton Health Science: Pre-Athletic Training program are prepared to pursue graduate study in Castleton's Master of Athletic Training program. Students with a master's degree in athletic training find successful careers in public and private secondary schools, colleges and universities, professional sports, clinics and hospitals, and emerging settings including performing arts, public safety, the military, and occupational health.
What You’ll Learn
As a student in the Health Science: Pre-Athletic Training program, you will take courses that give you a solid understanding of athletic training knowledge, as well as opportunities to pursue extensive hands-on clinical training. The program will provide you with foundational knowledge in science, health, exercise, wellness, emergency care, injury prevention, and treatment.
Sample Courses
- Strength Training Principles
- Emergency Care and Personal Safety
- Foundations of Therapeutic Interventions
View Health Science: Pre-AT courses →
Extensive Clinical Experience
Castleton's Health Science degree with a concentration in Pre-Athletic Training provides students with extensive hands-on clinical experience in years four and five of the program, within the master's degree. This includes assignments with men's and women's varsity athletic teams, cooperative experiences at area colleges, high schools, Killington Medical Clinic, and Vermont Orthopaedic Clinic. You will also complete a general medical rotation where you will receive mentoring from healthcare professionals in settings like emergency medicine, orthopedics, family practice medicine, chiropractic medicine, and physical therapy. You will also complete one immersive clinical experience where you'll participate in the full-time experience and day-to-day role of an athletic trainer.
Educational Requirements for Athletic Trainers
Students who wish to pursue a career in athletic training must graduate from a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). The Master of Athletic Training Program at Castleton University is accredited by the CAATE. Upon completion of this program, students become eligible for national certification by successfully completing the Board of Certification, Inc. (BOC) examination.
Meet our Health Science: Pre-Athletic Training Faculty
Castleton’s professors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from working as professionals in the field. Small class sizes provide you with access to professors who will prepare you for graduation and beyond.
Meet Castleton’s Pre-Athletic Training Faculty →
Clubs and Societies
Castleton Athletic Training Club
The Castleton Athletic Training Club provides educational programming and networking opportunities for current and former Athletic Training and Pre-Athletic Training students.
