Overview
CAATE and athletic training
The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) accredits professional athletic training programs. The field has moved to a master’s degree as the entry-level credential — the transition away from bachelor’s professional programs is complete — so a CAATE-accredited master’s is now the standard path. CHEA-recognized.
The Gate
CAATE accreditation, the BOC exam, and licensure
To become a certified and licensed athletic trainer, you must graduate from a CAATE-accredited professional program (now a master’s) and pass the BOC exam — the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer. Every state that regulates athletic training requires passing the BOC exam, which in turn requires a CAATE-accredited degree. Students are typically eligible to sit for the BOC in their final term.
The Scope
Professional and post-professional
CAATE accredits professional programs (the entry-level master’s) as well as post-professional residency and fellowship programs for practicing athletic trainers. The entry-level master’s is the one that matters for initial certification and licensure.
Do It Yourself
Verify an athletic training program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits athletic training programs? The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), which accredits professional (now master's-level) and post-professional athletic training programs. It is CHEA-recognized.
- Do I need a CAATE-accredited program to become an athletic trainer? Yes. You must graduate from a CAATE-accredited professional program and pass the BOC exam to be certified and licensed.
- Is athletic training now a master's-entry field? Yes. The field has transitioned to a master's degree as the entry-level credential; bachelor's professional programs have been phased out.
- What is the BOC exam? The Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer exam, required for certification and licensure. A CAATE-accredited degree is required to sit for it.
- When can I take the BOC exam? Students are typically eligible to sit for the BOC exam in their final term of a CAATE-accredited program.
- Is CAATE recognized by the government? CAATE is CHEA-recognized. Athletic training accreditation is generally not a federal Title IV gatekeeper.
- Does CAATE accredit residencies? Yes. CAATE accredits post-professional residency and fellowship programs in addition to entry-level professional programs.
- How do I verify an athletic training program? Search the CAATE accredited-programs directory and confirm certification via the BOC and your state's licensure rules.