Brookings Main Campus
PREVENT. DIAGNOSE. RETURN. Healthcare for sport and life.
Athletic trainers specialize in preventing, diagnosing and treating injuries and illnesses in the physically active population. Many athletic trainers work in educational settings, such as colleges, universities, elementary schools and secondary schools. Others work in hospitals, fitness centers, physicians’ offices or for professional sports teams. A master’s degree and successful completion of a national board examination are required to practice athletic training. Nearly all states require athletic trainers to be licensed, however, requirements vary by state. The pre-athletic training curriculum is a pre-professional curriculum whereby the necessary prerequisites can be completed for applying to the Master of Science in athletic training program at South Dakota State University. Students must declare an undergraduate major along with the pre-professional curriculum in athletic training.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy physical activity and sports.
- Want to help people and work well with others.
- Possess strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills and attention to detail.
- Are a good problem solver.
- Enjoy science and healthcare.
Internship Opportunities
- Professional Sports (NFL, MLB, etc)
- College Athletics
- Sports Medicine Clinics
- Secondary Schools
- Physician Clinics
Suggested Majors
Suggested Minors
- Health science
- Leadership
- Health education
Clubs and Organizations
- Athletic Training Student Association
- Pre-Professional Science Club
- Exercise Science Club
Professional Schools Admitting Graduates
- South Dakota State University
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.