Educational History, Employment Characteristics, and Desired Competencies of Doctoral-Educated Athletic Trainers

Objective: The study had 3 objectives: (1) to assess the educational history of doctoral-educated certified athletic trainers (ATCs) who work at academic institutions, (2) to determine the current employment characteristics of doctoral-educated ATCs who work at academic institutions, and (3) to identify which competencies doctoral-educated ATCs feel are important for new doctoral graduates to possess upon graduation. Design and Setting: Multiple sources were used to identify doctoral-educated ATCs who work at academic institutions. These individuals were surveyed to assess their educational histories, current employment characteristics, and opinions on desired competencies for new doctoral graduates. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Subjects: Surveys were sent to 130 individuals, and the response rate was 89.2% (n = 116). Measurements: Subjects answered questions regarding their educational history and employment characteristics. A 5-point Likert scale was used to assess the importance of 22 competencies for new doctoral graduates to possess upon graduation. Comparisons were made between program directors and non-program directors, respondents employed at doctoral-granting institutions and non-doctoral-granting institutions, and doctoral student advisors and non-advisors. Results: Subjects reported several different educational backgrounds, job titles, and job responsibilities. Significant differences in job responsibilities and assessment of desired competencies were found between program directors and non-program directors, employees of doctoral-granting institutions and non-doctoral-granting institutions, and doctoral student advisors and non-advisors. Conclusions: As new doctoral programs are established in athletic training, students should receive training as classroom instructors and program administrators, in addition to learning the skills necessary to perform independent research in athletic training.