The athletic training field is growing quickly across the U.S.

With a 19 percent job growth increase predicted from 2018 to 2028, it’s no wonder students want to study this health science profession.

With the help of Daemen University AT alum Griffin Spatorico,’19, we came up with some ways to identify the best athletic training programs during your college search.

Plenty of real world experience

Athletic trainers are key healthcare providers who help keep athletes in the game.

This is why it’s so important students have access to as much hands on experience as possible during college.

At Daemen, athletic training students learn and work together during athletic training simulation events that replicate real world emergency situations.

Even students’ schedules are set up like that of a professional athletic trainer, “which prepares you very well when you get your first job,” said Spatorico.

Students also have access to an on-campus cadaver lab where they can learn first-hand about the human anatomy. Clinical experiences allow students to gain real world experience treating patients.

“Every program gives you hands-on experience at clinical sites, but at Daemen, they go beyond that. Daemen’s accredited program does an amazing job matching you with the ideal preceptor and setting that fits your personality, interests and educational needs,” said Spatorico, who now works as an athletic trainer for Niagara Falls High School.

Supportive culture

Having an entire department of professionals committed to your success can help you succeed during college and graduate to find athletic training jobs.

“The culture that this program provides is what separates it from your typical athletic training program. Everyone involved wants to see you succeed and will provide the necessary tools to see it happen,” Spatorico said.

This is made clear with the fact that 96.4 percent of Daemen graduates achieved an overall first time pass rate on the BOC exam over the past nine years, which is much more than the national average of 84 percent.

Collaboration with other healthcare professionals

Students can gain well-rounded knowledge of the AT field when learning about other professional’s roles in patient care.

Tony Surace, clinical education coordinator/assistant professor at Daemen University, managed a concussion clinic and has experience working closely with physical therapists and physician assistants – two careers Daemen offers professional programs for also.

Surace said all three professionals can determine a diagnosis and treatment plan for their patient together.

Working together with the next generation of healthcare professionals helps all students learn how best to work with each other in the future.

For more information on earning a degree in athletic training at Daemen, visit daemen.edu/athletictraining.