ORONO – The University of Maine’s new curriculum-based Athletic Training Education program has earned national accreditation, ensuring that its graduates are prepared and eligible for the final step in becoming certified athletic trainers.

The designation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, Division 1 status and a planned modern classroom and laboratory facility will enable UMaine to become a regional player in preparing qualified and experienced students for the growing professional athletic trainer job market.

Completion of a commission-accredited program provides the demanding academic and broad clinical experiences required to take the National Athletic Trainers Association Board of Certification exam. Once graduates of four-year programs pass the skills and knowledge exam, they earn the professional credential of certified athletic trainer.

Previously, UMaine offered athletic training through an extensive internship program culminated by sitting for the board exam. However, the association determined in 2004 that the accredited curriculum route would be the only way to gain eligibility for the exam.

The Athletic Training Education program is offered through the UMaine College of Education and Human Development.

“National certification in any health-related field is a particularly demanding process, and properly so,” said college dean Robert Cobb. “This recognition signifies that our program has met those precise standards and stands ready to serve students in an exceptional way.”

The anticipated fall 2006 completion of the Wes Jordan Athletic Training Education Complex also will enhance the quality of the program, according to Cobb. The state-of-the-art teaching and lab facility, housed in Lengyel Hall, will include classrooms, labs and equipment.

The college began the process of developing coursework and clinical experiences geared to specific National Athletic Trainers Association requirements and proficiencies five years ago. Sherrie Weeks, athletic training program director and instructor, spearheaded the process, working with Associate Dean Anne Pooler. Submission of an extensive self-study and visit by a national review team also were part of the process.

“We took the program through a huge educational reform,” Weeks said. “Like other nationally accredited programs, we now have a common curriculum and standards that each student must meet.”

Weeks describes the curriculum as progressive, rigorous and science-based. As a Division 1 university with a variety of sports and many athletes, UMaine offers athletic training students opportunities to see and learn how to treat and prevent injuries, Weeks said. Students also gain clinical experience in other settings, such as high schools and allied health care practices.

“The program is a big commitment for students who must spend a lot of time at clinical sites on a daily basis, in addition to course work,” said Weeks.

Thirteen approved clinical instructors – all certified athletic trainers – have been trained to oversee the clinical experiences and evaluate students. The program currently has 60 students.

Margaret White, a senior from Harpswell, has seen the changes in the program and its requirements during the past few years.

“Classes focus on all aspects of athletic training, including people skills, professionalism, and clinical and assessment skills, as well as current events within the field,” she said. “These are all key components for preparing students to not only take the exam, but also for experiences once they leave the university.”

White, who is president of the Athletic Training Student Organization at UMaine, said she was confident that as a result of the national accreditation, athletic training at UMaine will become one of the more competitive and prestigious programs available on the East Coast. While graduate school is an option for White, she is looking forward to obtaining her certification and working “hands-on” in the profession for a while.

The process to meet the national standards has greatly improved the program, and not having to go to another institution to specifically prepare for the exam after graduation is a great relief to students, according to senior Joshua Holman of Island Falls, whose goal is to work with a professional baseball team.

“I know this can be the best athletic training program in the Northeast because of the staff and the professional resources available to students,” Holman said. “This program is definitely meeting my needs as a student and is preparing me for a career.”

The UMaine Athletic Training Education program’s initial certification runs through Sept. 30, 2010.