BUIES CREEK – Campbell University’s Athletic Training Education program has earned reaccreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education.
Campbell’s program, now in its 20th year, was awarded the maximum 10-year accreditation, a sign that the University’s program is going strong, according to Director Catherine Simonson, who also serves as an instructor in the Department of Exercise Science.
“In the past, our accreditation came in five- or seven-year increments,” said Simonson, who took over the program in 2008. “Getting 10 years is phenomenal, and it was definitely a team effort. Without a doubt, everyone involved with the ATEP contributed to this success.”
Campbell’s Athletic Training Education program currently has 19 students who are educated and evaluated across the following content areas: evidence-based practice, prevention and health promotion, clinical examination and diagnosis, acute care of injuries and illnesses, therapeutic interventions, psychosocial strategies and referral, healthcare administration, and professional development and responsibility. Students are then required to demonstrate comprehensive clinical integration of that knowledge and skill in a real time setting as a part of their professional preparation.
The undergraduate program is part of Campbell’s College of Arts & Sciences, and preparation for reaccreditation was a four- to five-year process, according to Simonson.
“Obtaining maximum accreditation from CAATE is no easy task but I know my kids. We have a 100-percent passage rate (on the NATA Board of Certification Inc. exam) … every student I’ve taught who’s sat for the exam has passed.”
The majority of the program’s graduates go on to earn Masters degrees or advanced professional credentials such as a PhD. While some pursue careers in other medical fields, most certified athletic trainers enjoy successful careers in a wide variety of healthcare settings, Simonson said.
Athletic training education at Campbell began in 1992 when Scott Hill was hired as the first full-time athletic trainer. He and Dr. William Freeman created the AT major at that time, and in 2000, Campbell was first accredited by CAAHEP, now known as CAATE.
The program’s next comprehensive review is scheduled for the 2021-2022 academic year.