Athletic Trainer

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2021, athletic trainers earned a median pay of $48,420 per year.

Athletic trainers should not be confused with fitness trainers and instructors. Athletic trainers specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses. Duties typically include:

• Apply protective or injury-preventive devices, such as tape, bandages, and braces
• Recognize and evaluate injuries
• Provide first aid or emergency care
• Develop and carry out rehabilitation programs for injured athletes
• Plan and implement comprehensive programs to prevent injury and illness among athletes
• Perform administrative tasks, such as keeping records and writing reports on injuries and treatment programs

Athletic trainers typically need at least a bachelor's degree, and master’s degrees are common. Nearly all states require athletic trainers to have a license or certification; requirements vary by state.