Doctoral Education in Athletic Training: Pursuit of the Degree and Its Influence on Career Aspirations

Abstract

Context Athletic trainers pursue higher education to obtain positions in academia, which often include scholarship and/or teaching responsibilities. Previous research has investigated the preparation and transition phases for doctoral students moving from student to junior faculty member as well as their professional socialization. However, the reasons for the pursuit of a doctoral degree and doctoral students' career goals postgraduation are not yet understood. Objective To explore the motivational factors and attractors for the pursuit of a doctoral degree among athletic trainers in doctoral programs. Secondarily, to examine how doctoral experiences shape career goals and aspirations. Design Qualitative phenomenology. Setting Higher education institutions. Patients or Other Participants Twelve academic doctoral students (8 female, 4 male; 6.0 ± 4 years Board of Certification–certified; 5.0 ± 3.0 years clinical athletic training practice) completed the study. Main Outcome Measure(s) Participants completed a single one-on-one telephone interview, which was recorded and transcribed. Analysis followed the phenomenological paradigm. Credibility was established through peer review and multi-analyst triangulation. Results Past experiences, mentorship, and professional development served as motivators for pursuit of an academic doctoral degree. Past experiences were supported by (1) previous educational experiences and (2) time in a nonacademic role. Additionally, our participants' career aspirations were shaped through mentorship and legitimization during their doctoral programs. Conclusions Pursuit of a doctoral degree was primarily influenced by the previous educational experiences that provided students with exposure to responsibilities that accompany a faculty role. Strong mentorship helped support the decision to pursue a doctoral degree, as well as to develop a career plan. Engaging in the role of faculty member via an assistantship also supported the development of career plans.