Prospective Students
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Questions and Answers for Prospective Students Interested in UW Oshkosh
and Athletic Training
When would I need to start the program?
Is it an advantage to be an athletic training student in high school?
Can Student-Athletes complete the Athletic Training Education Program?
What are employment prospects upon graduation?
Where can I get more information?
When would I need to start the program?
Because many of the courses have prerequisites and most build upon one another it is vital that a student begin as early as possible. It will take a minimum of 3.5 years from the time of enrollment in the first course in the pre-professional year. Furthermore, entrance in the program is selective and competitive. Students will have to apply following one year of pre-professional study.
Is it an advantage to be an athletic training student in high school?
Not really. The program does require 30 observation hours in other settings and these can be completed more easily if a student is involved in high school. However, all students will be expected to take the same sequence of courses and will begin clinical assignments at the same time. Individual assignments may vary within the framework according to demonstrated skills and ability to accept responsibility.
Can Student-Athletes complete the Athletic Training Education Program?
Yes. UW Oshkosh does not prohibit student-athletes from completing the program. Prospective student-athletes should be aware that there are substantial conflicts between the clinical portion of the educational program and competing as a student-athlete. The likelihood that someone can successfully complete both activities will be dependent on variables such as the student-athlete, their chosen sport, and the expectations of their coach. It is generally recommended that a prospective student-athlete anticipate a minimum of one additional year of study to compete four years of eligibility and the academic program. While the academic program has flexibility in terms of how/when the clinical requirements are met, the requirements will not be lowered so that a student-athlete may successfully complete the program.
What are employment prospects upon graduation?
The Department of Labor Statistics estimates an 29.9% increase of jobs from 2002-2012. All program graduates who wished to continue a career as an athletic trainer are currently doing so. Program graduates have achieved an 78% first time pass rate on the BOC, Inc. exam (National average = 31%).
Where can I get more information?
Contact the following person:
Dr. Hal Strough, ATC
Lecturer/Director of Athletic Training Education Program
Department of Kinesology & Health
169H Kolf Center
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
800 Algoma Blvd.
Oshkosh, WI 54901
(920) 424-1298
strough@uwosh.edu
University of Wisconsin OshkoshLast update: August 16, 2006
