Varsity and Club Sports 
Frequently Asked Questions
- The athletic training major at Carthage College is an undergraduate, entry level program. The program begins its Clinical Instruction Program in the student's second semester of their sophomore year. The student's acceptance into the program is based on the following criteria:
- Formal admission and acceptance by Carthage College Admissions office
- Grade Point Average for Carthage College's courses: BIO 260, AT 102, and AT 208
- Completion of 50 field experience hours
- A personal interview with the Athletic Training Program Director and admissions committee
- High school grade point average, ACT scores, and class rank
- A completed application
- The students must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 to apply to the Athletic Training Education Program. There is no minimum high school GPA, ACT-score or class rank. The student is selected based on the comparison of all criterion listed above with other students applying at the same time.
- Along with the above requirements, candidates for admission to the Athletic Training Education Program must demonstrate
- The mental capacity to assimilate, synthesize, and integrate concepts and problem solve to formulate assessment and therapeutic judgments and to be able to distinguish deviations from the norm.
- A sufficient postural and neuromuscular control, sensory function, and coordination to perform appropriate physical examinations using accepted techniques; and accurately, safely and efficiently use equipment and materials during the assessment and treatment of patients.
- The ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and colleagues, including different cultural and social backgrounds; this includes but is not limited to the ability to establish rapport with patients and communicate judgments and treatment information effectively. Students must be competent in professional practice.
- The ability to record the physical examination results and a treatment plan clearly and accurately.
- The capacity to maintain composure and continue to function well during periods of high stress.
- The perseverance diligence, and commitment to complete the athletic training education program as outlined and sequenced.
- The application for admission into the program will be provided to the student by the Program Director. The deadline for admission is December 1st of the student's sophomore year. All students applying for admission will be notified in writing of their acceptance into or rejection by the program within three weeks after the admission deadline. If the students are not accepted, they can reapply the following year.
- Daniel Ruffner MS, ATC/L
Program Director of Athletic Training
Work (262) 551-5741
Fax (262) 551-5995
druffner@carthage.edu
Carthage College
TARC 1240
2001 Alford Park Drive
Kenosha, WI 53140
What is Athletic Training?
Athletic Training is a subspecialization of sports medicine providing a major link between a sports program and the medical community for the implementation of injury prevention, emergency care, and rehabilitation procedures.
What is an athletic trainer?
An athletic trainer (ATC) is a highly qualified medical professional that deals with injuries that occur with the physically active population. ATCs focus on seven major tasks. These tasks include:
Prevention
Evaluation and recognition
First aid and emergency care
Rehabilitation and conditioning
Organization
Counseling and guidance
Education
Where do athletic trainers work?
Certified athletic trainers are employed throughout a wide range of work settings and can be found in any field where people are physically active.
Including:
Secondary schools
Colleges and universities
Professional sports
Sports medicine clinics
Hospitals
The military
Industrial and commercial
Fitness and recreational sports centers
What are some related occupations?
The American Medical Association recognizes athletic trainers as allied health professionals. Other occupations that may require similar responsibilities include emergency medical technicians and paramedics, physical therapists, physician assistants, registered nurses, licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses, recreational therapists, occupational therapists, and respiratory therapists.
What is the average starting salary?
Most athletic trainers work in full-time positions, and typically receive benefits. The salary of an athletic trainer depends on experience and job responsibilities, and varies by job setting. Median annual earnings of athletic trainers were $33,940 in May 2004. It is common for employers to pay for some of the continuing education required of ATCs.
For further information on job outlook for Athletic Trainers visit http://www.bls.gov
What other certifications and licences would be beneficial to obtain to enhance the athletic training degree?
Those with an athletic training degree who wish enhance their degree often acquire certifications from the National Strength and Conditioning Association as a strength and conditioning specialist. Other common certifications related to athletic training fall within the area of emergency medicine, message therapy, and nutrition.
Am I able to play intercollegiate athletics and be an athletic training student?
Yes, at Carthage you are able to compete in intercollegiate athletics and be an athletic training major. We have had student athletes successfully complete the athletic training program. First year students are encouraged to experience extracurricular activities offered by Carthage College.
How do I apply to Carthage College's Athletic Training Program?
Students who have fulfilled the prerequisites for the Athletic Training Program apply the first semester of their sophomore year. Students are notified on their admittance to the program prior to the second semester of their sophomore year.
When and how do I get accepted into the Athletic Training Education Program (ATEP)?
How do I request information on your Athletic Training Education Program?
How successful are your athletic training students at passing the NATABOC exam?
The success rate of athletic training students passing the NATABOC exam is 60 out of 68 or 88%.
How does a background in Athletic Training help in a career of Physical Therapy?
Athletic training encompasses many of the skills used in physical therapy. Evaluation and rehabilitation are core assets in both careers. These skills are emphasized in classes taught throughout the academic program as well as classes emphasizing kinesiology and therapeutic modality use. The knowledge gained in the Athletic Training Program at Carthage College provides an excellent basis for furthering education in physical therapy.