Master's degrees can help potential athletic trainers launch their careers

Master's degrees can help potential athletic trainers launch their careers

Although many athletic trainers hold four-year degrees, nearly 70 percent of these professionals also have a master's, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Students who are interested in this profession could benefit from enrolling at schools that offer training in this area.

For instance, the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) provides a master's degree in athletic training which was recently accredited, the Oklahoman reports. The school has already started to accept early admissions applications.

Jeff McKibbin, director of the program at UCO, told the news source that "an advanced degree offers greater opportunities for professional development" and enhances "the quality of care" that students will be able to provide once they graduate.

Enrollees who complete this master's degree will be prepared with skills, knowledge and the clinical education they need to become successful athletic trainers.

The program takes six semesters to complete, including two summer terms.

Students may benefit from similar master's programs, as there are expected to be many job opportunities for athletic trainers. According to the BLS, the number of positions for these professionals will increase by 37 percent over the next eight years. They can work at secondary or postsecondary institutions or in the healthcare industry.

By Stephanie Hughes