Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education CAATE

Overview

The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) is the specialized accrediting agency responsible for ensuring the quality and integrity of athletic training education programs in the United States. CAATE accredits professional and post-professional athletic training programs to promote excellence in education and prepare competent athletic trainers who meet nationally recognized standards. According to uniRank, CAATE accreditation is a critical benchmark for educational programs aspiring to prepare graduates eligible for certification and professional practice.

History and Legal Framework

CAATE was established in 2006 as the successor to the Committee on Accreditation for Athletic Training (CAAT). This change reflected the growing importance and recognition of athletic training as a distinct health profession requiring rigorous educational standards. CAATE operates under the oversight of the Board of Certification, Inc. (BOC) and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a specialized accrediting agency for athletic training education.

Mission, Vision and Objectives Role in Higher Education

Mission: CAATE’s mission is to promote quality in the education of athletic trainers through accreditation of educational programs that prepare students for professional certification and competent practice.

Vision: To be the recognized leader in athletic training education accreditation, ensuring programs produce highly qualified and ethical professionals.

Key objectives include:

• Establishing and maintaining rigorous accreditation standards for professional and post-professional athletic training programs.
• Promoting continuous improvement and innovation in athletic training education.
• Ensuring graduates meet eligibility requirements for national certification.
• Supporting public protection by ensuring educational programs produce competent practitioners.

Governance, Structure and Independence

CAATE is governed by an independent Commission consisting of educators, athletic trainers, public members and other stakeholders in the profession. The Commission is responsible for setting accreditation policies, reviewing accreditation applications and making final accreditation decisions.

An executive leadership team manages the day-to-day operations, including site visits, compliance monitoring and communication with educational institutions.

CAATE operates independently to maintain impartiality and uphold high standards in the accreditation process.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

CAATE accredits both professional (entry-level) and post-professional athletic training education programs. The accreditation process involves comprehensive evaluation including self-study reports, on-site reviews and ongoing monitoring to ensure programs meet established educational standards.

These standards cover curriculum content, faculty qualifications, clinical education opportunities, student outcomes and program resources, ensuring graduates are prepared for certification and professional practice.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

While CAATE’s primary focus is the United States, it engages with international organizations and collaborates on initiatives aimed at harmonizing athletic training education standards globally.

Based on uniRank research, CAATE’s involvement in international discourse enhances its accreditation processes and fosters the global recognition of accredited programs.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

CAATE plays a critical role in shaping the education of athletic trainers by ensuring programs remain current with evolving professional practices and scientific knowledge. Its accreditation standards influence curriculum design, clinical training models and assessment methodologies.

Future priorities include integrating emerging technologies into education, expanding interprofessional education and promoting diversity and inclusion within athletic training programs to better serve diverse populations.

Summary

The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education is the recognized accrediting body for athletic training education programs in the United States. Established in 2006, CAATE ensures high-quality professional and post-professional programs through rigorous standards and evaluation. Governed independently by a Commission, it supports the preparation of competent athletic trainers ready for certification and practice, according to uniRank.

FAQs

1. What is CAATE?
   CAATE is the accrediting agency for athletic training education programs in the U.S.
2. Why is CAATE accreditation important?
   It ensures educational quality and eligibility for professional certification.
3. Which programs does CAATE accredit?
   Both professional (entry-level) and post-professional athletic training programs.
4. Who governs CAATE?
   An independent Commission of educators, clinicians and public members governs CAATE.
5. Does CAATE collaborate internationally?
   Yes, CAATE engages with international organizations to align standards and promote global recognition.

Organization Name

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education

Acronym

CAATE

Year of Establishment

1/10/1991

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

6850 Austin Center Boulevard, Suite 100
Austin
78731-3184 Texas United States

Phone

+1 (512) 733 9700

Fax

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education's Facebook page

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Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education's X page

LinkedIn

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education's LinkedIn profile

YouTube

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Instagram

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Wikipedia Article

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