Athletic Training Option

This option provides a concentrated program of courses designed to prepare students for a career in the profession of athletic training. The option has been designed for students who complete the option to meet the standards for certification by the Board of Certification and the State of Pennsylvania as a certified athletic trainer. It is possible to combine either the Fitness Studies, Movement Science, or Physical and Health Education Teacher Education options with the Athletic Training option. It should be noted, however, that such a program may require additional time.

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Admission Requirements

The following requirements for admission to the Athletic Training option are in addition to those for entrance to the Kinesiology major:

  1. Submission of written application to take KINES 231 and 233. You may also contact the Department of Kinesiology Advising Office, 270 Recreation Building, University Park, PA 16802 for an application.
  2. Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
  3. GPA of 3.0 or higher in the following courses: KINES 135 (3), 202 (4), 231 (2), and 233 (3).
  4. Completion of an entrance interview with Athletic Training Program Director or designee.
  5. Evidence of ability to meet the physical and psycho-emotional standards as outlined in the "Technical Standards for the Undergraduate Athletic Training Program at Penn State University" (download the technical standards from the link above or contact the Department of Kinesiology Advising Office, 270 Recreation Building, University Park, PA  16802).

NOTE: Students are admitted to the Athletic Training option on a competitive, space-available basis. Admission to the option is not guaranteed despite successful completion of the prerequisites. Upon admission to the option, students complete a 5 semester sequence of course work and supervised clinical rotations. Students typically commit a minimum of 200-300 hours to practicum experiences in each of the last 4 semesters of the program.

It is recommended that students apply for admission as soon as Athletic Training is identified as a possible goal in order to meet the sequence of course requirements, as there is a waiting list for admission to the option. This should be done as soon as possible for students at all Penn State locations. Applications can be downloaded from the links at the top of this page, obtained from the Undergraduate Program Office (276 Recreation Building) at University Park, or from the HHD College Contact and Referral Representative at each campus location.

Students seeking to transfer from other colleges and universities will have their transcripts evaluated after acceptance to Penn State to identify those courses and credits that will be applied to completion of degree requirements. Course work specific to the Athletic Training option will not be considered for transfer unless completed in an Athletic Training Education (CAATE) accredited athletic training education program.

Students interested in the Athletic Training option should contact:

Athletic Training Option Office
276 Recreation Building
Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-0442