Admissions

Demonstration of Candidacy

The technical standards set forth by the FIU Athletic Training department establish the essential qualities considered necessary for students admitted to this program to achieve the knowledge, skills, and competencies of an entry-level athletic trainer as well as to meet the expectations of the program's accrediting agency (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education [CAATE]).

Compliance with the program’s technical standards does not guarantee a student’s eligibility for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam. The following abilities and expectations must be met by all students admitted to the program. In the event a student is unable to fulfill these technical standards, with or without reasonable accommodation, the student will not be permitted to begin the clinical education component of the program.

Candidates seeking acceptance into the FIU Athletic Training program must demonstrate:

• The mental capacity to assimilate, analyze, synthesize, integrate concepts, and problem solve to formulate assessment and therapeutic judgments and to be able to distinguish deviations from the norm.
• Sufficient postural and neuromuscular control, sensory function, and coordination to perform appropriate physical examinations using accepted techniques; and accurately, safely and efficiently use equipment and materials during the assessment and treatment of patients.
• The ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and colleagues, including individuals from different cultural and social backgrounds; this includes, but is not limited to, the ability to establish rapport with patients and communicate judgments and treatment information effectively. Students must be able to understand and speak the English language at a level consistent with competent professional practice.
• The ability to record the physical examination results and a treatment plan clearly and accurately.
• The capacity to maintain composure and function during periods of high stress and uncertain clinical situations.
• The perseverance, diligence, and commitment to complete the athletic training education program as outlined by the program.
• Flexibility and the ability to adjust to changing situations and uncertainty in clinical situations.
• Affective skills and appropriate demeanor and rapport that relate to professional education and quality patient care.

About our Admissions and Program Policies

Florida International University and Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences policies, procedures, requirements and regulations are continually reviewed to serve the needs of the university/college’s publics and to respond to the mandates of the Florida Department of Education, Board of Governors, the Legislature, and other regulatory and accrediting agencies. Changes in programs, policies, procedures, requirements, and regulations may be made without notice.