Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT)

FIU Athletic Training at the Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences is proud to be the first in the Southeast U.S. to offer a Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) degree.

Professional practicing athletic trainers enrolled in the FIU Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) degree seek to advance their career opportunities by integrating the latest evidence for clinical practice leadership, embracing a diverse and global society, utilizing contemporary approaches for technology, incorporating best practices for life-long learning and educational endeavors, and ignite their entrepreneurial passion.

Curriculum & Core Competencies

The Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) program prepares certified athletic trainers to advance their clinical expertise through an innovative, evidence-based curriculum. Students develop advanced clinical reasoning, leadership, and scholarly competencies that empower them to improve patient outcomes, lead healthcare teams, and shape the future of athletic training practice.
Students build expertise in:

Advanced clinical practice and patient-centered care
Evidence-based practice, research, and clinical decision-making
Leadership, healthcare administration, and quality improvement
Interprofessional collaboration and healthcare innovation
Clinical education, ethical practice, and advocacy within the athletic training profession

Explore the DAT Curriculum

Completed in 6 Semesters

FIU’s 48-credit, DAT program offers post-professional education designed to focus on athletic training globalization, educational leadership, entrepreneurial leadership, scholarly appreciation, and the overall development of advanced practice leaders.

The FIU DAT is designed for athletic trainers certified in good standing as verified by the BOC and those who practice internationally and demonstrate appropriate equivalency. Please refer to the admission link to learn more about enrollment requirements and the curriculum link to review the program content.

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements
Applicants must have completed formal education in the field of Athletic Training or a closely related field (e.g., athletic therapy, sport rehabilitation) at either the bachelor’s or master’s level.
The following criteria must be documented and presented in the application. First is a list that all applicants must complete, followed by specifics depending on the highest degree earned:
All Applicants:
1. Proof of athletic training certification through the Board of Certification, or equivalent;
2. Proof of state credential (if applicable in the student’s current state of residence/practice);
3. Three letters of recommendation that focus on the applicant’s potential for success in a doctoral-level program;
4. Resume or curriculum vitae; and
5. Statement of professional and personal goals to include reasoning for completing the DAT program.
Master’s degree (or higher) prepared applicants (any field):
- Minimum graduate GPA equivalent of a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Bachelor-only prepared applicants (no graduate degree):
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale overall or last 60 credits;
- Minimum of two years of full-time athletic training or equivalent work experience as a credentialed professional.

Attend an Information Session

Have questions about the DAT Program? Join our information sessions and get answers directly from our team.