What Is A Doctor of Athletic Training
Someone with a Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) degree is considered an expert in the clinic, education, or other healthcare setting. The DAT degree is designed for those who want to advance their knowledge and skills in athletic training and impact outcomes in healthcare. This elite group has advanced knowledge and experience to improve AT practice.
DAT programs come in various formats to suit different needs. Some programs, great for the working professional, are offered 100% on-line and can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis. Other programs are designed to be residential and full-time. Other programs are a mix of both - with on-line courses combined with periodic visits to campus for intense learning opportunities.
Differences Between a PhD, DAT, and EdD
All three program types are respected paths for advancing your athletic training career. However, there are stark differences between the degrees. Knowing those differences will help you make the right choice for your future.
Comparison of Advanced Degrees in Athletic Training
PhD
A PhD program focuses on preparing students to create their own research and generate new knowledge for others to adopt and apply in the field.
Is this you?
- I want to do basic research in a lab. The AATE Research Network' prioritized research initiatives is provided here by way of example.
- I want to advance clinical applications.
DAT
A DAT program focuses on advancing a student’s skills to address real world problems that ATs face in the workplace every day. Unlike academic doctorates like the PhD or EdD, this is referred to as a clinical doctorate.
Is this you?
- I want to do clinically based research in the field.
- I want to be the expert athletic trainer at the point of care.
EdD
An EdD program focuses on academia or researching a specific topic at the university level. This degree is best suited for those who are looking to teach the next generation about their research.
Is this you?
- I want to expand my knowledge on a topic with research based studies.
- I want to teach students with the same passion for the field that I have.
Pursuing an Advanced AT Degree Requires the Right Attitude
To be successful in pursuing an advanced degree, an athletic trainer needs certain qualities to excel at such high-level, rigorous programs.
Practice experience
Ability to influence their system
Growth mindset
Intellectual curiosity
Practice curiosity
Find a DAT program in our global database
Search our program map for Doctor of Athletic Training programs to begin your research and find the right program for you.
