Athletic training encompasses the prevention, examination, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of emergent, acute or chronic injuries and medical conditions. Athletic training is recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA), Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as an allied health care profession.

Athletic trainers (ATs) are highly qualified, multi-skilled health care professionals who render service or treatment, under the direction of or in collaboration with a physician, in accordance with their education, training and the state's statutes, rules and regulations. As a part of the health care team, services provided by athletic trainers include primary care, injury and illness prevention, wellness promotion and education, emergent care, examination and clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions. The NATA Code of Ethics states the principles of ethical behavior that should be followed in the practice of athletic training.

Athletic trainers are sometimes confused with personal trainers. There is, however, a large difference in the education, skillset, job duties and patients of an athletic trainer and a personal trainer. The athletic training academic curriculum and clinical training follows the medical model. Athletic trainers must graduate from an accredited baccalaureate or master’s program, and 70% of ATs have a master’s degree. Learn more about the education of athletic trainers.

Every athletic trainer working in the state of Missouri must be licensed by the State of Missouri Division of Professional Registration. The purpose of licensure is to protect the public and the credential (ATC) by verifying the individual meets the minimum qualifications and competency for that credential.

Before you begin work in the state of Missouri, you must file an application for licensure and other forms indicated, along with the appropriate fee, to the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. Missouri does not have a provision for a temporary license. If you plan to work in Missouri, you may apply for your license prior to being hired. Your license must be in your possession before you perform any athletic training duties.

Learn More About AT Licensure HERE

Find Professional Organizations, Professional/Credentialing Information, Research and Education, Government Affairs/Advocacy, and Additional Resources for Athletic Trainers by CLICKING HERE