Article Reposted from Lenoir Rhyne University
Author: LRUMarketing
The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) has granted the Lenoir-Rhyne University Athletic Training Program 10 years of continuing accreditation. LRU offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Athletic Training program designed to integrate clinical and didactic experiences to promote critical thinking, psychomotor skill and collaboration to prepare students to serve as professionals in the field of athletic training.
According to Dr. Michael McGee, Dean of the College of Health Sciences and Program Director of Athletic Training, the continuing accreditation was granted following an 18-month self-study review that examined all aspects of the program including curriculum, experiential learning, teaching methods, supervision as well as student learning and outcomes. It also involved a two and half day on-campus visit by an external review team who interviewed faculty and students and toured learning facilities.
“This continuing accreditation is an indication of the high-quality standards maintained by Lenoir-Rhyne’s Athletic Training Program,” Dr. McGee said. “”The commission found that our program met all of the nationally recognized standards for entry-level athletic training education.”
Dr. McGee added that accreditation is an essential component of the program in that it allows students to apply for the Board of Certification (BOC) Certification Exam for athletic trainers after they graduate.
In a letter to the University, Dr. Mark Merrick, President of CAATE stated, “The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education recognizes the faculty, staff, and administrators at Lenoir-Rhyne University for their commitment to the advancement of education in Athletic Training, as well as their dedication to the preparation of qualified Athletic Training professionals.”
In accordance with CAATE regulations and to ensure continued compliance, Lenoir-Rhyne is required to submit annual reports regarding its Athletic Training Program to the commission.
Since its initial accreditation in 2011, 36 students have completed the Athletic Training Program at LRU which continues to attract students from across the region. Over the past three years, the LRU Athletic Training Program has maintained a 100% first-time pass rate on the BOC Certification Exam. In addition to the curriculum, the program offers practicum courses through partnering clinical sites to provide students invaluable experience, working alongside professionals in the field.
McGee added, “The successful accreditation review would not have been possible without the efforts of our students and preceptors. A special thank you goes to Dr. Stephanie Stadden, Chair of the School of Health, Exercise and Sport Science and Professor Amanda Hilton for incredible assistance completing the self-study process”.
The Athletic Training Program is offered through the Lenoir-Rhyne’s College of Health Sciences, and is housed in the School of Health, Exercise, and Sport Science. For more information, visit http://www.lr.edu/at.