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University of Connecticut Neag School of Education Department of Kinesiology

Athletic Training Program

Technical Standards for Admission

The University of Connecticut Athletic Training Educational Program is a rigorous and intense program that places specific requirements and demands on the students enrolled in the program. An objective of this program is to prepare graduates to enter a variety of employment settings and to render care to a wide spectrum of individuals engaged in physical activity. The technical standards set forth by the Athletic Training Educational Program establish the essential qualities considered necessary for students admitted to this program to achieve the knowledge, skills, and competencies of an entry-level athletic trainer, as well as meet the expectations of the program’s accrediting agency (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education [CAATE]). The following abilities and expectations must be met by all students admitted into the UCONN ATEP. In the event a student is unable to fulfill these technical standards, with or without reasonable accommodation, the student will not be admitted into the program. For more information regarding the University’s policy for accommodating students with disabilities contact the Center for Students with Disability, Wilbur Cross Building, Room 201, or via phone at 860–486–2020.

Compliance with the program’s technical standards does not guarantee a student’s eligibility for the BOC certification exam.

Candidates for selection to the Athletic Training Educational Program must demonstrate:

  1. The mental capacity to assimilate, analyze, synthesize, integrate concepts and problem solve to formulate assessment and therapeutic judgments and to be able to distinguish deviations from the norm.

    Criteria: a) One year (2 semesters) of full-time college coursework with a minimum GPA 2.2, b) a C or better in EKIN 161/162 and EKIN 264.

  2. 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.

    Criteria: a) Completion of a standard physical and signature page by health care provider, b) ability to perform CPR and First Aid.

  3. The ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and colleagues, including individuals from 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 able to understand and speak the English language at a level consistent with competent professional practice.

    Criteria: a) Satisfactory performance in the application interview, b) satisfactory performance in the application essay.

  4. The ability to record the physical examination results and a treatment plan clearly and accurately.

    Criteria: Satisfactory performance in the application essay

  5. The capacity to maintain composure and continue to function well during periods of high stress.

    Criteria: a) Satisfactory performance in the observation hours as evaluated by clinical instructors, b) satisfactory performance in application interview.

  6. Flexibility and the ability to adjust to changing situations and uncertainty in clinical situations.

    Criteria: a) Satisfactory performance in the observation hours as evaluated by clinical instructors, b) satisfactory performance in application interview.

  7. Affective skills and appropriate demeanor and rapport that relate to professional education and quality patient care.

    Criteria: a) Satisfactory performance in the observation hours as evaluated by clinical instructors, b) satisfactory performance in application interview, c) satisfactory letters of recommendation.