Clinical Instruction Plan

The Athletic Training Program requires each student to complete observations and clinical field experiences spread out over four semesters. The clinical experience component is designed to provide the student with a variety of settings for observation and directed practice of the competencies and proficiencies learned in the athletic training curriculum. Throughout the clinical component of the program, students are expected to observe the certified athletic trainer and allowed to practice skills in which they have been determined proficient by the athletic training faculty in the didactic portion of the program. The concept of the program is for the student to be led through their clinical experiences in order to develop a strong foundational knowledge and then to build on that foundation. The clinical preceptor is a key for providing the student with hands on experience and sharing practical information about the athletic training profession. The student should consider the clinical experience courses as lab time to practice the skills developed in the theory classes.

Most of the field experiences take place during the observation and directed practice in the athletic training room; during the practice and contest venues. The program uses the athletic training rooms within local interscholastic and intercollegiate facilities in San Antonio area. The student will also gain field experience by observing and participating with clinical instructors in physical therapy clinics, physician offices and other allied health settings in the area.