Ben Gall
208.467.8877
brgall@nnu.edu

Pre-Athletic Training

Bachelor of Science

Prepare for a future in athletic training through hands-on learning, personalized faculty mentorship and a strong foundation in exercise science, human performance and injury prevention. NNU’s Pre-Athletic Training program equips students with the academic preparation and real-world experience needed for graduate athletic training programs and careers in sports medicine and healthcare.

Phyiscal Therapist helping pacient
  • HANDS-ON clinical preparation
  • SMALL classes, personal mentorship
  • STRONG graduate program preparation

About Pre-Athletic Training at NNU

NNU’s Pre-Athletic Training program combines coursework in biology, kinesiology, exercise science and health sciences to prepare students for the next step toward becoming a certified athletic trainer. Students gain a strong understanding of human anatomy, injury prevention, rehabilitation, biomechanics and athletic performance while learning in a Christ-centered environment focused on whole-person care.

With personalized support from faculty and opportunities for hands-on experience, students graduate prepared for competitive athletic training graduate programs, sports medicine careers and related healthcare pathways. Whether you hope to work with athletes, active individuals or rehabilitation patients, NNU helps you build the academic and professional foundation to move forward with confidence.

degree details

Bachelor of Science

On Campus

The Benefits of Pre-Athletic Training at NNU

  • Build a strong foundation in athletic training and sports medicine
  • Study human anatomy, physiology and biomechanics
  • Learn in small classes with individualized faculty support
  • Prepare for graduate athletic training programs
  • Gain hands-on experience in exercise science settings
  • Explore injury prevention, rehabilitation and human performance 
  • Develop communication and leadership skills for healthcare careers 
  • Learn in a Christ-centered community that values holistic care 
  • Access modern labs and collaborative learning environments 
  • Prepare for careers in athletic training, physical therapy and sports performance 

Our Goals for Pre-Athletic Training Majors

  • Prepare students for success in graduate athletic training programs 
  • Develop critical thinking and clinical problem-solving skills 
  • Build confidence working with athletes and active populations 
  • Understand the science behind movement and performance 
  • Encourage compassionate, ethical and patient-centered care
  • Foster leadership and collaboration in healthcare settings
  • Equip students with practical knowledge in injury assessment and prevention
  • Support spiritual, personal and professional growth
  • Help students discover meaningful careers in sports medicine and helathcare

Additional Information About the Bachelor of Science in Pre-Athletic Training

Students in the Pre-Athletic Training program complete coursework designed to prepare them for admission into graduate athletic training programs, which are required to become a licensed or certified athletic trainer. Coursework may include subjects such as: 

  • Human anatomy and physiology 
  • Exercise physiology 
  • Biomechanics 
  • Nutrition 
  • Kinesiology 
  • Injury prevention and care 
  • Strength and conditioning 
  • Psychology and health sciences 

Students also benefit from close faculty mentorship as they prepare graduate school applications, observation hours and professional goals within athletic training and sports medicine. 

Athletic Trainer with pacient<br />

Career Paths For Pre-Athletic Training Graduates

A Pre-Athletic Training degree from NNU prepares students for graduate study and careers in athletic training, sports medicine and healthcare-related fields. Graduates often pursue advanced degrees and careers focused on helping athletes and active individuals prevent injuries, recover safely and improve performance. Metropolitan and nonmetropolitan area occupational employment and wage estimates for the Boise area are sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Athletic Trainer

Exercise Physiologist

Physical Therapist

Meet the Team

Additional Information & FAQs About the Pre-Athletic Training Degree

What career options will I have with a bachelor’s degree in Pre-Athletic Training from NNU?

Graduates commonly continue into graduate athletic training programs, physical therapy programs or other healthcare-related graduate pathways. The program also provides preparation for careers in sports performance, wellness, rehabilitation and exercise science. 

What are the benefits of studying Pre-Athletic Training at NNU over other universities?

NNU offers a relational learning environment where students are known personally by faculty and supported throughout their academic journey. Small class sizes, hands-on learning opportunities and a Christ-centered approach to healthcare education help students grow academically, professionally and personally. 

How does the faculty help prepare students for professional careers in athletic training and sports medicine?

Faculty provide mentorship, academic advising and practical learning experiences that help students prepare for graduate school applications and future careers. Students receive guidance in coursework, observation opportunities and professional development throughout the program. 

Is graduate school required to become an athletic trainer?

Yes. Professional athletic trainers must complete an accredited graduate athletic training program and pass certification requirements. NNU’s Pre-Athletic Training program is designed to help students build a strong foundation for that next step. 

What skills will I develop in this program?

Students develop knowledge in anatomy, biomechanics, exercise science, injury prevention, rehabilitation principles, communication, leadership and patient-centered care.