Certification
Upon graduation from the program, those individuals wishing to practice as athletic trainers must sit for and pass a certification examination. Additionally, maintaining this certification requires that athletic trainers participate in continuing education activities. The ATC© credential, the associated certification examination and continuing education requirements are maintained and monitored by the Board of Certification, Inc.The Board of Certification is the only accredited certification program for athletic trainers.
To be eligible for the BOC, Inc. Examination individuals must graduate from a Commission on Accreditation for Athletic Training Education (CAATE) accredited athletic training education program and be endorsed by the athletic training education program’s Program Director. For more specific information regarding the examination please view the BOC Steps to Become Certified.
Additional Certifications
- New York State Emergency Medical Technician Certification (eligible upon completion of summer MSAT 201 course)
- International Society of Sports Nutrition Certified Sports Nutritionist (eligible upon completion of HPR 230 course)
- NSCA Certified Special Population Specialist (eligible upon graduation and earned BOC Certification)
State Regulation
A majority of states have some form of state regulation that defines the practice guidelines for certified athletic trainers. State regulation for athletic trainers defines the scope of practice (what you can and cannot do) for the state in which professionals are employed. State regulation can be licensure, registration or certification. New York State has a certification process as well as a specific practice act for athletic trainers. Visit the NYS Office of Professions site for information on practice acts and rules and regulations in New York State. The BOC, Inc. has information for practice acts and rules and regulations for other states.
BOC Exam for Athletic Trainers Application Requirements
Candidates with a Felony or Misdemeanor: The affidavit portion of the exam application requires candidates to report any felony or misdemeanor conviction. During the application process, candidates must submit a written explanation, in their own words, of the events that led to the conviction(s), copy of court documents(s), including, but not limited to, an arrest report, sentence recommendation, compliance of all court requirements and proof of payment of all related fines. If the case(s) were alcohol or drug related, the candidate may also need to provide a current professional alcohol/substance abuse evaluation that is no older than 3 months. If an alcohol/ substance abuse evaluation was not required by the court, the candidate must obtain an evaluation performed by a state licensed mental health professional who is capable of providing substance abuse treatment. An online evaluation is not acceptable. Contact the BOC for specific information.