Athletic Training
Education
Program
Athletic Training
Student
Handbook
I. USC ATHLETIC TRAINING EDUCATION PROGRAM...
A. MISSION ... B. DESCRIPTION... C. ATHLETIC TRAINING MAJOR TRACK ... II. THE ATHLETIC TRAINING PROFESSION... A. WHAT IS A CERTIFIED ATHLETIC TRAINER? ... B. PROFESSIONAL PREPARATION ... C. CLINICAL PREPARATION ... D. CERTIFICATION ... III. PROGRAM ADMISSION ...
A. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS... B. WHEN TO APPLY ... C. DETAILED ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ... IV. PROGRAM PROGRESSION...
A. ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS... B. CLINICAL REQUIREMENTS ... C. PROBATION ... D. APPEALS ... V. USC ATEP GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS ...
A. ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS... B. CLINICAL REQUIREMENTS ... VI. NATABOC EXAMINATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES ...
VII. ATHLETIC TRAINING SCHOLARSHIPS... VIII. ACADEMIC COURS EWORK...
A. ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS/CURRICULUM ... IX. CLINICAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS ...
A. CLINICAL EXPERIENCE... B. CLINICAL ASSIGNMENTS ... C. CLINICAL EVALUATIONS/REPORTS... D. CLINICAL COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS ... X. ATHLETIC TRAINING STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT ...
A. PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR ... B. DRESS CODE... C. VIOLATIONS OF CODE OF CONDUCT ... XI. ATHLETIC TRAINING STUDENT WORK POLIC Y ... XII. GENERAL HEALTH AND SAFETY STANDARDS ... XIII. USC ATEP CLINICAL SUPERVISORS ...
A. ATHLETIC TRAINING EDUCATION PROGRAM FACULTY... B. ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT STAFF ATHLETIC TRAINERS... C. ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT INTERN ATHLETIC TRAINERS... D. ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT TEAM PHYSICIANS ... E. OFF-CAMPUS CLINICAL SUPERVISORS ...
XIV. APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION TO THE ATHLETIC TRAINING PROGRAM………...21
I. I. USC Athletic Training Education Program
A. A. Mission
The Athletic Training Education Program at the University of South Carolina is committed to distinguishing itself as a state and national leader in its efforts to address the needs of its students, the athletic training profession, and community. Our program is committed to providing students with a variety of authentic clinical experiences. The pursuit of excellence in both the academic and clinical education setting is our Program’s approach for providing students with the knowledge and skills required to become a Certified Athletic Trainer and to successfully contribute to the athletic training profession.
B. B. Description
The Athletic Training Education Program at the University of South Carolina (USC ATEP) is housed in the Department of Physical Education in the College of Education. USC ATEP is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). At this time, USC ATEP is one of only three CAAHEP-accredited athletic training education programs in South Carolina, and one of only four undergraduate programs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The USC ATEP provides students with the theoretical knowledge and
understanding of the allied health profession of athletic training as well as current procedures and techniques in sport injury management. Students gain this
knowledge through required coursework, research, and clinical experiences as they prepare to make successful contributions to the athletic training profession. The program combines formal classroom instruction and clinical experiences in a process that culminates in the student graduating with eligibility to sit for the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) Board of Certification (BOC) examination. Students who graduate from the program and subsequently pass the national certification examination will be qualified to be employed as an athletic trainer in a variety of allied health settings, including secondary schools*, two- and four-year colleges and universities, professional athletic teams, sports medicine clinics, or in industrial preventative medicine clinics. In addition, students who complete prerequisite course requirements may pursue graduate education in athletic training, exercise physiology, physical therapy, health, physical education, or other allied health professions.
*Students who wish to pursue a career in secondary schools are encouraged to pursue teacher certification.
C. C. Athletic Training Major Track
The Department of Physical Education offers one undergraduate degree, a
is divided into two major tracks: (a) Teaching Physical Education and (b) Athletic Training. Students who wish to enroll in the USC ATEP should declare a major in Physical Education and a major track in Athletic Training. Currently students graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education with an emphasis in a CAAHEP-accredited athletic training program.
II. II. The Athletic Training Profession
A. A. What is a Certified Athletic Trainer?
The certified athletic trainer (ATC) is a highly educated and skilled professional specializing in the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries. In
cooperation with physicians and other allied health personnel, the ATC functions as an integral member of the athletic healthcare team in secondary schools, colleges and universities, sports medicine clinics, professional sports programs, industrial settings and other healthcare environments.
- National Athletic Trainers Association. (2000). [website]
B. B. Professional Preparation
The athletic trainer’s professional preparation is directed toward the development of specific educational competencies outlined by the JRC-AT and NATA. USC’s athletic training program requires all students to complete Level I-IV clinical competencies. The clinical competencies are based upon didactic and clinical knowledge from the following subject matter areas:
*Assessment of injury/illness *Exercise physiology
*First aid and emergency care
*General medical conditions and disabilities *Health care and administration
*Human anatomy *Human physiology
*Kinesiology and biomechanics *Medical ethics and legal issues *Nutrition
*Pathology of injury/illness *Pharmacology
*Professional development and responsibilities *Psychological development and referral
*Risk management and injury/illness prevention *Strength training and reconditioning
*Therapeutic exercise *Therapeutic modalities *Weight management
Through a combination of formal classroom instruction and clinical experience, the athletic trainer is prepared to apply a wide variety of specific health care skills and knowledge within each of the domains.
C. C. Clinical Preparation
An athletic training student’s clinical preparation is intended to provide each student with exposure to a variety of athletic training clinical experiences.
Students enrolled in USC’s undergraduate athletic training program must
complete a minimum of four semesters of distinct/unique clinical rotations. USC offers a variety of clinical rotations including experience with USC men’s and women’s athletics, local public & private high schools, physical therapy clinics, and Columbia College athletics.
D. D. Certification
In order to become a certified athletic trainer (ATC), the athletic training student must pass the National Athletic Trainers Association Board of Certification (NATA BOC) examination. Students enrolled in a CAAHEP-accredited ATEP (such as the USC ATEP) must meet the following BOC requirements in order to apply to take the examination:
1. 1. The athletic training student must have a high school diploma to
begin accumulating supervised athletic training experience hours that are to be used to meet requirements for NATABOC certification. 2. 2. Candidates must successfully complete an entry- level athletic
training program accredited by CAAHEP, in no less than two
academic years. The NATABOC will not accept athletic training hours that were accumulated more than five years from the application date. The program must include a minimum of 800 hours of athletic training experience under the supervision of an NATABOC certified athletic trainer.* The athletic training experiences must be obtained from athletic training settings associated with the accredited curriculum. Applicants must provide proof of graduation (an official transcript) at the baccalaureate level from an accredited college or university. Graduates of foreign universities may petition for a substitution of this degree requirement. Such a request will be evaluated at the candidates expense by an independent consultant selected by the NATABOC. 3. 3. Students who have begun their last semester or quarter of college
are permitted to apply to take the certification examination prior to graduation provided all academic and clinical requirements of the section used for candidacy have been satisfied. A candidate will be permitted to take the examination on the date closest to his or her date of graduation.
4. 4. Applicants who have not completely satisfied the academic course
requirements must submit a letter from the college registrar verifying enrollment in the required class(es). Certification will not be issued
until an official transcript indicating successful completion of all athletic training coursework and date of degree is received by the Board of Certification.
5. 5. Proof of current certification in CPR (course must include adult
CPR techniques) from one of the following acceptable providers: American Red Cross, American Heart Association, National Safety Council, and EMP America. A photocopy of a valid CPR card or proof of enrollment in a course must be attached to the application. Current EMT certification is an acceptable alternative for satisfying the CPR requirement. CPR certification must be current at the time of
application.
6. 6. At the time of application, a candidate for certification must verify
of the required athletic training experience hours credited in fulfilling the Certification Requirements were obtained in actual (on location) practice and/or game coverage with one or more of the following sports: football, soccer, hockey, wrestling, basketball, gymnastics, lacrosse, volleyball, rugby, and rodeo.*
7. 7. Endorsement of the certification application by the program
director of the CAAHEP-accredited athletic training education program.
* The NATABOC has recently changed certification examination requirements. As of the 2003, hours are no longer required as a requirement to sit for the NATABOC certification examination. However, USC’s athletic training program will still require documentation of clinical hours to meet many state and local licensing requirements.
III. III. Program Admission
Admission into the USC ATEP is selective and competitive. The number of students accepted into the program each year is based upon availability of approved clinical instructors (ACI’s) and quality of clinical instruction. Students seeking admission into the program must meet the following criteria.
A. A. Admission Requirements
Academic
ü ü 2.5 overall GPA
ü ü 3.0 GPA in core athletic training courses
ü ü PEDU 263 *Introduction to Athletic Training (Or Course
Equivalent)
ü ü PEDU 266L Athletic Training Lab
*Credit for a transfer course in basic athletic training (PEDU 263) is determined on an individual basis at the discretion of the Program Director. Students may be required to provide documentation such as course description and/or course syllabus in order to receive credit. However, all students applying to the program must have completed PEDU 266L. Transfer credit will not be given for PEDU 266 or PEDU 266L.
Clinical
ü ü Minimum of 100 hours of clinical experience through USC’s
Student Mentor Program (a minimum of 80 hours must be documented by the application interview)
ü ü Satisfactory clinical evaluation
ü ü Completion of PEDU 266L clinical competencies. (See Section
IX(D): Clinical Competency Requirements)
ü ü Submit proof of initiation of Hepatitis B vaccination series
ü ü Submit proof of purchase of professional liability insurance
ü ü Submit proof of current CPR certification
Other
ü ü Score 80% or better on the written entrance examination
ü ü Score 80% or better on the oral practical entrance examination
ü ü Complete program application
ü ü Submit 3 letters of recommendation
ü ü Interview with program committee
ü ü Meet Department of Physical Education professional point
requirements (See Department of Physical Education Student Handbook)
ü ü Submit proof of membership in a professional organization (South
Carolina Athletic Trainers’ Association or National Athletic Trainers’ Association)
ü ü Attendance at HIV/HBV Lecture
B. B. When to apply
Transfer students are eligible to apply to the program during the fall semester and are admitted to the program in the spring semester.
Freshman students apply to the program during the spring semester of their first year and are admitted to the program during the fall of their second year.
C. C. Detailed Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
a) a) Minimum Grade Point Average
**Students who do not have a 2.5 overall GPA and a 3.0 in major courses will not be accepted into the USC ATEP.
Academic Requirements
b) b) Required Coursework
PEDU 263 – Introduction to Athletic Training (or equivalent) PEDU 266L – Athletic Training Lab
Clinical Requirements
c) c) Clinical Experience
Students applying to the USC ATEP must complete 100 hours of clinical
experience during the semester in which they apply to the program. These hours must be completed through USC’s Student Mentor Program at a site affiliated with the USC ATEP. The USC ATEP has affiliations in variety of settings, including high school, college/university and sports medicine clinic. A minimum of 80 hours must be documented by the applicant’s interview for admission.
**Students must have at least a 2.5 in order to complete the 100 observational hours.
d) d) Clinical Evaluations
Each student is assigned to an approved clinical instructor (ACI) who is certified athletic trainer affiliated with USC’s athletic training program. Each student is evaluated by his/her ACI twice a semester. The mid-term evaluation provides the student with feedback on performance strengths as well as areas in need of improvement. Students must achieve satisfactory evaluations to meet admission/course requirements.
e) e) Clinical Competencies
Students must demonstrate competency in entry-level student athletic training skills. Demonstration of skill competency is a requirement for admission to the USC ATEP. All students are required to complete PEDU 266L clinical competencies prior to admission to the USC ATEP. (See Section VIII: Clinical Competency Requirements for additional information on completing clinical competencies).
f) f) CPR Certification
Students must submit proof of current CPR certification as part of their
application. The USC ATEP offers classes at least once a semester. Additional opportunities for CPR certification are available through USC Campus
g) g) Interview
Students seeking admission into the USC ATEP are required to be interviewed by the program admission committee. The committee consists of the program director, the chairperson of the Department of Physical Education, faculty members in the Department of Physical Education, and ACI’s/clinical supervisors.
h) h) Entrance Exam
Students will be evaluated through written and oral examination on entry-level knowledge and skill competencies which are provided to students in PEDU 263, 266L, 266, and through clinical experiences. Textbook information used in the courses as well as clinical competencies are also used in developing the admission examination.
**Students must score at least 80% on the written exam and at least 80%
on the oral practical exam in order to be admitted to the USC ATEP.
Other Requirements (Cont)
i) i) Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Vaccination
Prior to being admitted into the program, all students are required to have initiated the Hepatitis B vaccination series. Proof of initiation of HBV must be submitted with the completed program application. Students who have previously been vaccinated for HBV should submit proof of completion with the completed program application.
j) j) Professional Liability Insurance
Yearly proof of liability insurance coverage is a program requirement. Liability insurance can be purchased through a national insurance company that provides insurance for the athletic training profession.
k) k) Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation must be in the Program Director’s office(Room 218-O) per the application deadline (TBA). Recommendation forms are available in Room 217 and in the Program Director’s office (Room 218-O). It is suggested that letters of recommendation be from teachers, administrators, coaches, or employers who have observed the student’s work and work habits.
l) l) Professional Membership and Professional Point Requirements
The undergraduate physical education program and faculty share a firm belief and strong commitment to professionalism of students. Each year students are required to join a professional organization related to their field of study along with attaining 5 professional points. Professional points are continuing
education units, which can be obtained by attending lectures, workshops, conferences, writing articles, presenting presentations, and participating in department, college and community events. (See Department of Physical Education Student Handbook)
m) m) Attendance at HIV/HBV Lecture
Each semester the USC ATEP offer a lecture on HIV/HBV and the role of the student athletic trainer. In association with team physicians this lecture provides student trainers with knowledge and skills associated with infectious disease in athletics. All students entering the program are required to attend this lecture.
n) n) Technical Standards
Technical standards are basic physical, cognitive, and psychosocial skills and abilities that are required for all athletic training students at the University of South Carolina. The technical standards set forth by the USC Athletic Training Education 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 Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The following abilities and skills must be met by all students admitted to the USC athletic training
education program. In the event a student is unable to fulfill these technical standards, with or without reasonable accommodations, the student will not be admitted into the program.
Athletic Training Technical Standards
University of South Carolina
Athletic Training Program
1. 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.
2. 2. Sufficient postural and neuromuscular control, sensory function, and
coordination to perform appropriate physical examinations using accepted
techniques; and accurately, and efficiently use equipment and materials during the assessment and treatment of patients.
3. 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.
4. 4. The ability to record the physical examination results and a treatment plan
clearly and accurately.
5. 5. The capacity to maintain composure and continue to function well during
periods of high stress.
6. 6. The perseverance, diligence and commitment to complete the athletic training
education program as outlined and sequenced.
7. 7. Flexibility and the ability to adjust to changing situations and uncertainty in
clinical situations.
8. 8. Affective skills and appropriate demeanor and rapport that relate to
professional education.
In conjunction with the Office of Disability Services (803) 777-6742, the University of South Carolina will evaluate, on a case-by-case basis, a student's request for reasonable accommodation on the basis of a disability. The University of South Carolina is
committed to providing equal access/opportunity for students with disabilities, while at the same time, reserving the right to deny accommodations that compromise
clinician/patient safety and/or fundamentally alter the nature of the program.
All technical and academic standards must be met throughout enrollment in the athletic training curriculum. It is the student's responsibility to notify the program director if during enrollment, circumstances occur and he/she cannot meet the technical standards.
IV. Program Progression
Once a student has been accepted into the athletic training program the student progresses through the program based upon the following criteria:
A. A. Academic Requirements
ü ü 2.5 overall grade point average
ü ü completion of required core course work with a GPA of 3.0 or better
ü ü yearly membership in a professional organization
ü ü earn required professional points
B. B. Clinical Requirements
ü ü documentation of clinical hours during rotations
ü ü satisfactory clinical evaluations
ü ü completion of required clinical competencies
ü ü annual purchase of professional liability insurance
ü ü annual renewal of CPR certification
ü ü attendance at yearly HBV-HIV lecture
ü ü compliance with NATA Code of Ethics (Can be found at www.nata.org)
C. C. Probation
Failure to meet one or more of the requirements for program progression will result in the student being placed on program probation. While on program probation, subsequent failure to meet any program requirements may result in dismissal from the program. Students who fail to complete clinical competencies must make arrangements with the program director or clinical coordinator to make up any incomplete competencies.
Failure to meet the 2.5 overall grade point average requirement automatically places the student on academic probation. If the student fails to re-establish the GPA to a 2.5 after one semester, the student may be dismissed from the program.
Each case is handled on an individual basis by the ATEP committee, which consists of the ATEP director, the ATEP clinical coordinator, and the department chairperson. Once a student is placed on academic or program probation, the student is closely monitored by the ATEP director.
D. D. Appeals
Each case brought to the Athletic Training Education Program committee will be handled on an individual basis and a recommendation will be made regarding probation or termination from the program. The student may appeal the committee’s decision per university procedures.
V. V. USC ATEP Graduation Requirements
A. A. Academic Requirements
ü ü complete course of study with a minimum GPA of 2.5
ü ü minimum of 129-135 academic hours
ü ü complete graduation application
Applications are available in the Department of Physical Education office.
ü ü maintain membership in a professional organization (preferably NATA)
ü ü meet professional point requirements
B. B. Clinical Requirements
ü ü Completion of required clinical competencies
ü ü Successful completion of a minimum of four semesters of distinct/unique
clinical rotations
VI. VI. NATABOC Examination Application Procedures
It is the intent of the USC ATEP that all graduates apply for and take the NATA BOC certification examination. Applications for the examination are available in the Program Director’s Office (Room 218-O). Current requirements for taking the examination include:
ü ü Complete examination application and pay required fees.
ü ü Proof of graduation (official transcript) at the baccalaureate level from an
accredited institution of higher education. A student who is in his/her last semester of course work is eligible to take the exam provided all required course work by the NATA BOC and 800 clinical hours have been met prior to making application.
ü ü Proof of CPR and First Aid certification. EMT equivalent is accepted.
ü ü Verification of 800 clinical hours under the direct supervision of a
certified athletic trainer with at least 25% of the hours experienced in contact/collision sports.*
ü ü Endorsement of certification application by the Program Director.
ü ü All signatures from the student and Program Director must be made in the
presence of a Notary Public.
* The NATABOC has recently changed certification examination requirements. As of the 2003, hours are no longer required as a requirement to sit for the NATABOC certification examination. However, USC’s athletic training program will still require documentation of clinical hours to meet many state and local licensing requirements.
VII. VII. Athletic Training Scholarships
Financial assistance for students at the University of South Carolina is available through the financial aid office on campus and is described in the University Undergraduate Bulletin. In addition, several athletic training scholarships for undergraduate students are available through the Department of Physical Education, the NATA and the Mid-Atlantic Athletic Trainers Association.
Applications and selection criteria are available in the Program Director’s Office (Room 218-O). See NATA website (www.nata.org).
VIII. VIII. Academic Coursework
A. A. Academic Requirements
Students must meet the academic requirements for the (a) Athletic Training Education Program, (b) Department of Physical Education, and (c) University.
(a) Athletic Training Requirements (36 hrs)
PEDU 263 Introduction to Athletic Training (2)
PEDU 266 Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries (3)
PEDU 266L Athletic Training Lab (1)
PEDU 366 Therapeutic Modalities (3)
PEDU 366L Therapeutic Modalities Lab (1)
PEDU 348 Evaluation of Athletic Injuries I (3)
PEDU 349 Evaluation of Athletic Injuries II (3)
PEDU 466 Therapeutic Exercise (3)
PEDU 464 Conditioning Methods in Athletic Performance (2) PEDU 496 Organization & Administration of Athletic Training (3)
PEDU 494 Athletic Training Senior Seminar (2)
PEDU 365 Pharmacology & Drug Education in Athletics (2)
PEDU 497 Topics in Athletic Training (2)
PEDU 392 Athletic Training Clinical I (1)
PEDU 393 Athletic Training Clinical II (1)
PEDU 492 Athletic Training Clinical III (2)
PEDU 493 Athletic Training Clinical IV (2)
(b) Physical Education Core Requirements (22 hrs)
PEDU 105 Weight Training (1)
PEDU 190 Intro to the Description & Analysis of Human Mvmt (2) PEDU 232 Philosophy & Principles of Physical Education (3) PEDU 420 Motor Learning in Physical Education (3)
OR EXSC 351
PEDU 520 Biomechanics (3)
OR EXSC 535
EXSC 530 Exercise Physiology (4)
EXSC 507 Exercise, Sport, and Nutrition (3)
OR HRTA 340 OR HPRE 502
PEDU 570 Human Growth During Childhood & Adolescence (3)
(c) General Education Requirements (59-64
hrs)
Language Arts 12 hrs
Aesthetics 3 hrs
Natural & Biological Sciences 20 hrs
Numerical & Analytical Reasoning 6 hrs
American & World Culture 12 hrs
Health 6 hrs
(d) Professional Electives (12 hrs)
IX. IX. Clinical Education Requirements
A. A. Clinical Experience
Requirements for Clinical Hours
ü ü All students enrolled in the USC ATEP must document completed clinical
hours every semester.
ü ü Observational hours completed in the student mentor program during the
process of applying to the USC ATEP do not count towards the current NATABOC exam or state licensure requirements.
*Students in USC’s athletic training education program are still required to document clinical hours despite the mandate from the NATABOC
eliminating hours as a requirement for the certification examination. (Many state and local licensing agencies still require clinical hours for certified athletic trainers). Specific course syllabi requirements (i.e. PEDU 392,393,492,493) may also require documentation of clinical hours.
How to Report Clinical Hours
ü ü It is the student’s responsibility to record and report all clinical hours.
ü ü Clinical hours log sheets are available in Blatt PE Center Room 217 and
in the Program Director’s Office.
ü ü Clinical hours log sheets are due prior to the mid-semester break and on
the last day of class each semester.
ü ü Clinical hours log sheets are stored in the student’s file in the Program
Director’s office.
ü ü Clinical hours log sheets must be signed weekly by the clinical supervisor
before being turned in
ü ü Students should make a copy of all clinical hours log sheets. The original
copy should be submitted to the Program Director. . Duplicate clinical hour
log sheets sho uld be maintained by the student.
Hours That Do Not Count Towards Certification/State Licensure
ü ü Hours not completed under the direct observation of a certified athletic
trainer
ü ü Hours spent traveling (team travel, lodging, etc.). However, while
traveling, hours spent giving treatment and those spent at the competition and practice sites will count if under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer.
ü ü Hours earned more than five calendar years prior to the date of the
application for the certification
ü ü Hours spent at clinical sites not affiliated with the USC ATEP.
ü ü Observation hours completed in the student mentor program during the
process of applying to the USC ATEP do not count.
B. B. Clinical Assignments
All students enrolled in the USC ATEP receive a clinical assignment every semester in which they are enrolled in the program. In order to graduate from the USC ATEP all students must complete a minimum of four semesters of
distinct/unique clinical experiences. Clinical rotations will be assigned based on the student’s ability, professional goals, supervisory input, and exposure to a variety of injury/illness situations. Clinical rotations are available through USC men’s & women’s athletics, local high schools, sports medicine clinics, and local colleges.
Approved Clinical Instructor (ACI)
Each student is assigned to an approved clinical instructor (ACI). It is the responsibility of the ACI to assign the student specific tasks to be completed during the clinical experience. These tasks include providing athletic healthcare for one or more athletic teams as well as general training room duties.
Clinical Setting
Students are provided with clinical experience in a variety of sports and settings, depending on the student’s academic background, year in the USC ATEP, clinical skills, competency level, and individual need. USC ATEP has affiliations in the following settings: university, small college, public high school, private high school, and sports medicine clinic.
Clinical Setting Policies and Procedures
Students are expected to follow the policies and procedures set forth by their ACI. An athletic training student who fails to do so will be subject to disciplinary action. Procedures for disciplinary action can be found in Section X: Athletic Training Student Code of Conduct.
Class Schedule
Students should submit a copy of their class schedules to the Clinical Coordinator at the beginning of every semester. Students should avoid taking elective classes that meet between 1:00 and 6:00 PM. Most athletic teams practice during this time, and classes scheduled during this time will interfere with the student’s clinical education. Class conflicts should be brought to the Clinical Coordinator’s attention prior to the beginning of the semester.
Clinical Experience Schedule
ACI’s will provide students with a schedule of assigned duties. Students are expected to spend as many ho urs at their clinical assignment as are necessary to perform their assigned clinical duties. Night and weekend athletic training duties are the norm and should be expected. Any attendance issues (requests for time off, class schedule conflicts, absence due to illness) should be addressed with the ACI immediately.
Student Mentor Program (Buddy System)
Prior to applying to the athletic training education program, students are required to complete 100 hours of observation through USC’s Student Mentor Program. Each pre-program student is assigned to an upper- level athletic training student already in the program. Student mentors are responsible for assisting pre-program students during their clinical observations. Student mentors are required to sign-off on student hours and monitor student behavior. Student mentors will be responsible for assisting in evaluation of pre-program students’ professional behavior, skills, work ethic, competencies, and professional ethics. Any problems associated with mentoring pre-program students should be discussed immediately with the ACI. If problems cannot be resolved, contact the clinical coordinator, and/or program director.
C. C. Clinical Evaluations/Reports
Athletic training students are evaluated twice every semester by their ACI. Clinical evaluations are part of course requirements for PEDU 392,393,492,493.
The mid-term evaluation provides the student with feedback on performance strengths as well as areas in need of improvement. Clinical evaluations are signed by the ACI, athletic training student, and the program director. A copy of the clinical evaluation is kept in the student’s file in the program director’s office.
Athletic training students are also required to evaluate their ACI every semester. Students are required to complete a clinical report each semester as a part of course requirements for all athletic training curriculum courses. A copy of a clinical report rubric can be obtained from the Athletic Training Lab (room 217) and/or Clinical Coordinator.
D. D. Clinical Competency Requirements
What are the Clinical Competencies?
Clinical Competencies are the common set of athletic training skills/proficiencies used for curriculum development and education of CAAHEP-accredited athletic training programs. They also serve as a guide for development of educational experiences leading to NATABOC certification. The competencies identify knowledge and skills to be mastered within an entry- level athletic training
education program. USC ATEP clinical competencies are integrated into didactic and clinical courses within the curriculum. The clinical competencies and
proficiencies must be signed off by an approved clinical instructor (ACI)
affiliated with the USC ATEP. Specific clinical competencies are included in the following athletic training courses:
PEDU 266, PEDU 266L, PEDU 366/366L, PEDU 348, PEDU 349, PEDU 365, PEDU 464, PEDU 466, PEDU 494,
When do I complete Clinical Competencies/Proficiencies?
Completion of all clinical competencies is a graduation requirement for the athletic training education program. Students must complete PEDU 266L clinical competencies to be admitted into the program and subsequently complete each set of competencies prior to progressing through the program. No student will be allowed to progress through the USC ATEP or receive a clinical rotation until the previous competency requirements are completed. Failure to complete the assigned competencies will result in program probation. (See Section IV: Student Progression). *See specific course syllabi for exact requirements pertaining to
due dates of clinical competencies.
How do I complete Clinical Competencies/Proficiencies?
ü ü Athletic training students must complete the checklist of clinical
competencies associated with course syllabi.
ü ü Athletic training students are required to demonstrate the clinical
competency to an ACI. The ACI should then provide a score and sign and date the checklist. A clinical competency will not be accepted without a
will not be accepted. (i.e. ACI’s will not sign off an excessive amount of competencies at the end of the semester even if you have done them all at some point during the semester).
ü ü Many clinical competencies are skills that are taught in the athletic
training lab classes. Some clinical competencies/proficiencies, however, contain concepts and information from the athletic training lecture classes.
ü ü Students are expected to take an active role in becoming proficient in all
clinical skills. The student is responsible for learning the information and practicing the skills required to demonstrate competency in all clinical skills.
ü ü Clinical competency checklists can only be signed by an ACI affiliated
X. X. Athletic Training Student Code of Conduct
A. A. Professional Behavior
ü ü Athletic training students are expected to uphold the Code of Ethics of the
NATA. Students are encouraged to review the Code of Ethics, which can be found on the NATA website (www.nata.org).
ü ü Athletic training students are expected to model professional behavior at
all times during their clinical experience.
ü ü Athletic training students are expected to follow the guidelines for
personal conduct established by their approved clinical instructor (ACI).
ü ü Students are expected to maintain appropriate professional relationships
with athletes/patients during their clinical rotation. Any behavior deemed embarrassing to the athletic training program, USC, or clinical site would qualify as inappropriate behavior.
B. B. Dress Code
ü ü Athletic training students will wear the proper attire at all times during
his/her clinical experience.
ü ü Athletic training students are responsible for purchasing the required
uniform for their clinical experiences.
ü ü In many cases, guidelines for proper attire are established by the
ACI/clinical site. If no guidelines are established by the ACI, then the uniform guidelines below must be followed:
Proper Attire for Events (games, matches & meets)
a) a) USC Athletic Training collared shirt*
b) b) Flat-bottomed shoes
c) c) Socks
d) d) Shorts or pants in one of the following colors: garnet, black, gray,
khaki, or white
Proper Attire for Practices and Training Room Duty
e) e) USC Athletic Training collared shirt or t-shirt*
f) f) Flat-bottomed shoes
g) g) Socks
h) h) Shorts, pants, or sweatpants in one of the following colors: garnet,
black, gray, khaki, or white i) i) Blue jeans are not allowed.
*Collared shirts, t-shirts and other apparel are usually ordered at the beginning of each semester through the Program Director.
C. C. Violations of Code of Conduct
Any violation of the professional behavior code of conduct outlined above could be grounds for dismissal from the clinical site and/or USC athletic training education program. Clinical instructors reserve the right to dismiss any athletic training student from his/her clinical assignment for any violation of clinical site rules and regulations. The typical sequence of disciplinary actions follows:
1st Offense
2nd Offense
Mandatory meeting with ATEP committee and possible dismissal from clinical experience and/or athletic training education program.
*All cases will be handled on an individual basis by the ATEP committee. -Athletic Training Program Director
-Athletic Training Clinical Coordinator -Chair of Department of Physical Education -Approved Clinical Instructor/Supervisor
-Dept of Physical Education Undergraduate Director
XI. XI. Student Athletic Trainer Work Policy
Work-Study
Students enrolled at the University of South Carolina have the opportunity to apply for compensation if they qualify for work-study employment. The USC ATEP does not employ work-study students. However, the Department of Physical Education employs students who qualify for work-study to do clerical and office work. Interested, qualified students should contact Debbie Galvin in the Department of Physical Education administration office, Blatt PE Center Room 218.
South Carolina Licensure
Athletic training students are under the direct supervision of certified athletic trainers in both off-campus and on-campus clinical settings. Students are not allowed to work as an athletic trainer for an organization outside the University of South Carolina and its affiliated sites unless the student is working under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer. This is in part due to the South Carolina Athletic Training Licensure Law that prohibits work in the capacity of an athletic trainer or calling oneself an athletic trainer unless that person is licensed by the state to do so. State licensure requires NATA certification.
Volunteer Service
While enrolled in the USC ATEP, athletic training students have numerous opportunities to perform volunteer service in athletic training. While students are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities, only those students who are CPR- and First Aid-certified should volunteer. Furthermore, only those students who have completed Level II competencies should volunteer to provide athletic training services. Students who have not completed Level II competencies should only volunteer to provide first responder (First Aid and CPR) services.
**Service hours can only be counted toward the 1000 clinical experience hours if the service is directly supervised by a certified athletic trainer.
**Clinical experience hours completed during volunteer service should be included on the student’s clinical hours log sheet and must be signed by the supervising certified athletic trainer.
XII. XII. General Health and Safety Standards
Athletic training students must uphold the general health and safety standards set forth by the University. These standards can be found on page U8 of the
University of South Carolina Undergraduate Bulletin. In addition to these standards, student athletic trainers must meet the following requirements:
OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Lecture
Students enrolled in the USC ATEP must attend an OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen lecture annually. The lecture will cover current information and regulations concerning HBV/HIV infection control.
HBV Vaccination
Students applying to the USC ATEP must submit proof of initiation of the HBV vaccination series. Students enrolled in the USC ATEP must submit proof of completion of the HBV vaccination series. Vaccinations may be obtained through the USC Health Center or the student’s primary care physician. Vaccination information will be maintained in the student’s file in the Program Director’s office.
CPR Certification
Athletic training students must maintain current CPR certification. CPR re-certification courses are usually offered at least once through the USC ATEP. Additional opportunities are available thorough USC campus recreation and the Red Cross. Cost of the course must be covered by the student.
Yearly Modality Inspection
Each year all therapeutic modalities in the USC Athletic Department are inspected to ensure the safety of student-athletes, athletic training students, and staff athletic trainers. Athletic training students are oriented to the modalities and all other equipment used in the athletic health care delivery system prior to using them.
XIII. XIII. USC ATEP Clinical Supervisors
A. A. Athletic Training Education Program Faculty
Jim Mensch, Ph.D, ATC Program Director BS Temple University
MS Louisiana State University Ph.D University of Maryland
Leah Gutekunst, M.Ed, ATC Clinical Coordinator BS University of North Dakota
M.Ed Colorado State University
Denise Wujciak, MS, ATC Doctoral Graduate Assistant BS William Paterson University
MS University of South Carolina
B. B. Athletic Department Staff Athletic Trainers
Rod Walters, D.A., ATC Head Athletic Trainer, Associate Athletic Director
BS Appalachian State University MS Appalachian State University DA Middle Tennessee State University
Nikki Harman, M.S, ATC Associate Athletic Trainer BS West Virginia University
MS University of South Carolina
Brainard Cooper, M.S, ATC Associate Athletic Trainer BS University of Tennessee
MS University of South Carolina
Bill Martin, MS, ATC
BS Boise State University MS Washington State University
Tara Lein MS, ATC Assistant Athletic Trainer BS University of Florida
MS James Madison University
C. C. Athletic Department Intern Athletic Trainers
Jarod Grace, ATC
BS Auburn University Joseph Lemery, ATC
BA University of North Carolina at Wilmington Courtney Lewis, ATC
BS Salisbury State University Jason Eckerle, ATC
BS Ball State University Niki Fergeson, ATC
BS Ohio State University Steve Zook, ATC
BS Ball State University
D. D. Athletic Department Team Physicians
Dr. Mark Leski Primary Care Physician Dr. Angus McBride Orthopedics
Dr. Jeff Guy Orthopedics Dr. Robbie DaSilva Orthopedics Dr. Jim O’Leary Orthopedics
E. E. Off-campus Clinical Supervisors
Scott Douglass, M.Ed., ATC Head Athletic Trainer, Irmo High School B.S. University of North Carolina
M.Ed. University of South Carolina
Ashley Goodman, MS, ATC USC Department of Orthopedics B.S Gardner-Webb University
M.A.E University of Alabama Birmingham
Mack Harvey, M.S., ATC Head Athletic Trainer, Brookland-Cayce High School
B.S. The Citadel M.S. The Citadel
Mary McAllister, MS, ATC Asst Athletic Trainer, Hammond School B.S. University of South Carolina
M.S. University of South Carolina
Jeff Peachman, MAT, ATC Head Athletic Trainer, Columbia High School
B.S. Penn State University
M.A.T. University of South Carolina
Julayne Shifflett, ATC Head Athletic Trainer, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School
B.S. University of South Carolina
Laurie Whitcomb, P.T., ATC Columbia Rehabilitation B.S. Ball State University
M.P.T. Beaver College
University of South Carolina
XIV. XIV. Application for Admission to the Athletic Training
Program
(all information must be type written)
A. Demographic Information
Name:___________________________________________
(last) (first) (middle)
Local address: Local telephone: Home address: Home telephone:
Social Security number:
B. Academic Information
List all high schools, junior colleges, colleges and universities attended including USC, total number of hours passed, GPA, and dates enrolled:
Institution Hours Passed GPA Dates Enrolled Current major/minor: Current GPA:
List the grades received in the following courses: (write IP if in progress) _____PEDU 263 _____EXSC 223 _____PEDU 266 _____EXSC 224 _____PEDU 266L _____PEDU 190 _____ PEDU 300 _____HPRE 221 _____BIO 101/102 _____PEDU 232
C. Athletic Training and Professional Experience
List all high school and college athletic training experiences:
Institution Dates Hours Worked Supervisor ATC yes/no
List all certifications and professional memberships (attach Xerox copies of certification and memberships)
Are you currently an NATA_____or SCATA______student member?
List all experiences in the field of athletic training or sports medicine (volunteer to community events, clinics, conventions attended)
D. Honors and Awards
List all honors and awards received:
E. Athletic Training Essay Questions
On a separate sheet of paper, answer the following questions (type your responses)
1. Why have you chosen the field of athletic training as a career? 2. What is your primary career goal in athletic training?
3. Do you consider yourself a strong candidate for admission into the athletic training program? How can/will you contribute to the success of our program?
F. References
Each applicant is required to have 3 recommendations on file prior to application to the program. Recommendations should be received no later than _________________of each year for Fall applicants and ______________________of each year for Spring applicants.
Recommendations should be mailed to:
Dr. Jim Mensch, PhD, ATC
Athletic Training Program Director Department of Physical Education University of South Carolina Columbia, SC 29208
