Pitt-Bradford Athletic Training Program Reaccredited for 10 Years

The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s athletic training program has been reaccredited for 10 years, the longest period possible, by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education.

The length of the accreditation reflects the overall quality of the program, explained Jason Honeck, director of the program.

CAATE officials who performed an on-site visit as part of the reaccreditation process interviewed not only Honeck and Brieanne Seguin, instructor of athletic training, but also Pitt-Bradford administrators, athletic trainers, faculty who work with the athletic training students, every athletic training major, clinical site supervisors and two alumni.

The reviewers praised Honeck, the program, clinical instructors, medical director Dr. Jill Owens and Pitt-Bradford facilities in their report.

“The athletic training education program benefits from a dedicated program director whose efforts are appreciated and acknowledged by students, faculty and staff,” the evaluator wrote.

“The athletic training facilities provide excellent educational environments. … The athletic training clinical staff is enthusiastic, vested in the program’s success and clearly dedicated to the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.”

In order to become a certified athletic trainer, students need to graduate from a four-year accredited athletic training program and pass a national exam, Honeck explained.

The Pitt-Bradford program was started in 2001 and first accredited in 2003.

Athletic trainers serve as a link between an athlete and his or her medical team. Athletic trainers can be the first responder when an athlete is injured during competition. They provide immediate treatment and also work with doctors and therapists to help rehabilitate the athlete.

In addition, they work with athletes and coaches to prevent injuries through teaching proper mechanics.

That takes a variety of skills, Honeck said, from evaluating an injury to coordinating care as part of a team.

The program, which requires that students maintain a 3.0 grade point average in their major and a 2.5 average overall, currently has 17 majors.

Pictured, Jason Honeck, director of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s athletic training program, working with students. The program has been reaccredited for 10 years, the longest term possible.
Courtesy of Pitt-Bradford