What are the best athletic training schools I should consider?

I'm super passionate about sports and thinking of pursuing a career in athletic training. Does anyone have recommendations for top schools in this field or tips on what to look for while researching programs?

Sure, the field of Athletic Training is an excellent choice with growing opportunities each year! Here are some universities well-known for their Athletic Training programs:

1. University of Michigan (UMich): They offer a Bachelor's in Athletic Training, and their curriculum focuses on hands-on training and great internships.

2. Penn State University: Their Master's in Athletic Training program stands out for its excellent clinical experience and high pass rates in certification exams.

3. University of Texas (UT Austin): Noted for its research facilities and cordial faculty-student relationships, UT Austin’s program gives students access to work with athletes at all levels.

As you research these and other programs, here are a few things to consider:

a. Accreditation: You'll want to ensure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).

b. Certification Exam Pass Rates: This is an excellent indicator of the program's rigor and its ability to prepare students for the professional requirements. High pass rates suggest the program properly prepares students for their careers.

c. Hands-On Opportunities: The best programs offer numerous opportunities for hands-on training, internships, and fieldwork.

d. Graduation and Job Placement Rates: These stats can give you a sense of how successful the program is in preparing students for careers in the field.

Hope this helps, happy researching!