Part I: Doctoral Education in Athletic Training. The Post-Professional Education Committee Doctoral Education Workgroup Report

Abstract

Context:The academic environment for athletic training is changing following the degree recommendations for professional education programs.Objective:To provide historical context by presenting definitions and information on doctoral degree programs in other health professions.Background:The National Athletic Trainers' Association called for a detailed analysis on doctoral education, and a workgroup was appointed by the Post-Professional Education Committee to fulfill this charge.Synthesis:Expert panel consensus. Data were extracted from a search of 38 databases in the University of Washington library, limiting results to full-text articles published in English between the years 2006 and 2016. Various supporting sources, including professional organizations, accrediting-body Web sites, and the US Department of Labor database, were used for regulatory and professional practice data. Two historical references were used to clarify definitions and provide context.Results:Many health professions began with apprenticeship or certificate models, professional growth led to progressive degree designations such that the majority have now adopted a professional doctorate educational model wherein the professional degree is the terminal degree for professional advancement. Some health professions use residency training as the graduate education equivalent for advanced-practice education, whereas others do not. Only nursing continues to offer professional education at the baccalaureate level.Recommendation(s):There is a growing need for research to further understand best practices in doctoral education and the educational routes athletic trainers pursue. Collection and analysis of new data and examination of past and present doctoral education programs will facilitate recommendations for the future of doctoral education in athletic training.Conclusion(s):Various postprofessional educational models exist among health professions, with different impacts on professional roles, clinical opportunities, student interest, research productivity, and faculty recruitment and retention. The recently created doctor of athletic training programs may be considered a hybrid model providing advanced training in both clinical and research skills.