Athletic Trainer Careers in Florida
Athletic trainers prevent, diagnose, and treat muscle and bone injuries and illnesses in athletes and physically active individuals. They work in high schools, colleges, professional sports teams, and clinical settings. Florida's massive sports industry — from professional teams to high school and college athletics — creates diverse employment opportunities for certified athletic trainers.
What does a Athletic Trainer do in Florida?
Athletic trainers prevent, diagnose, and treat muscle and bone injuries and illnesses in athletes and physically active individuals. They work in high schools, colleges, professional sports teams, and clinical settings. Florida's massive sports industry — from professional teams to high school and college athletics — creates diverse employment opportunities for certified athletic trainers.
Typical Florida work setting: High schools|Colleges|Professional sports venues|Sports medicine clinics|Military bases.
Florida salary and job outlook
Estimated Florida median pay for Athletic Trainer is approximately $58,410 per year. Entry-level Florida pay typically starts near $46,720, with experienced workers earning around $76,590.
Florida’s projected growth for this occupation is approximately 13% through the next decade — well above average compared to many other states.
Estimated figures based on publicly reported Florida and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual pay varies by employer, metro area, experience, and credentials.
How to become a Athletic Trainer in Florida
- 1. Choose an accredited Florida programLook for a Florida program that prepares you for the FL Athletic Trainer License + BOC (Board of Certification) exam; BS or MS required required to work as a Athletic Trainer. Public technical colleges and state colleges are typically the lowest-cost option; private career schools tend to cost more but may finish faster.
- 2. Complete the trainingMost Florida Athletic Trainer programs take about 4+ years (BS) or 2+ years master's program (CAATE-accredited). Plan around your work and family schedule — many programs offer day, evening, or hybrid options.
- 3. Pass the Florida licensing examWorking as a Athletic Trainer in Florida requires a state license issued through Florida Board of Athletic Training (FL DBPR). You’ll typically need to pass a national or state exam after completing an approved program.
- 4. Apply for Florida jobsHospitals, clinics, employers, and staffing agencies across Florida hire newly licensed Athletic Trainers every month. Use our Florida school directory to find programs with strong job-placement support.
Requirements & Training
- Credential: FL Athletic Trainer License + BOC (Board of Certification) exam; BS or MS required
- Typical program length: 4+ years (BS) or 2+ years master's program (CAATE-accredited)
- Typical tuition range: $15,000 - $35,000
- Florida license required: Yes (Florida Board of Athletic Training (FL DBPR))
Career Path
- Athletic Training Student
- Staff Athletic Trainer
- Head Athletic Trainer
- Clinical Director
- Program Director
Top Florida Employers
Related Programs to Look For
- Athletic Training BS
- Kinesiology BS
- Sports Medicine BS
Florida Athletic Trainer FAQs
Do I need a Florida license to work as a Athletic Trainer?
Yes. Florida requires state licensure for Athletic Trainers, administered through Florida Board of Athletic Training (FL DBPR). You’ll generally need to graduate from an approved program and pass an exam before you can practice.
How long does it take to become a Athletic Trainer in Florida?
Most Florida training programs for Athletic Trainer take about 4+ years (BS) or 2+ years master's program (CAATE-accredited). Part-time, evening, and hybrid schedules can extend that timeline; accelerated programs may shorten it.
How much does Athletic Trainer training cost in Florida?
Typical Florida programs run about $15,000 - $35,000. Public technical and state colleges are usually the lowest-cost route. Financial aid, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are widely available.
What is the average salary for a Athletic Trainer in Florida?
Estimated Florida median pay for Athletic Trainers is about $58,410 per year. Entry-level pay is typically lower, and experienced workers in high-demand metros (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville) can earn meaningfully more.
Where can I study to become a Athletic Trainer in Florida?
Florida has hundreds of public technical colleges, state colleges, and private career schools that offer training relevant to Athletic Trainer. Use our Florida school directory to filter by region, cost, and accreditation.
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