The athletic training program at LSU works around 800-1,000 hands-on hours to prepare students for their profession.
The undergraduate program is four years, three of which are clinical studies. During clinical studies, students train with different athletic teams on campus. 
On average, 15 students are selected for the program every year. These students study muscles, bones, nutrition, and social well-being.
Students who undergo the program take the athletic training profession’s Board of Certification before they graduate.  If they pass, they become board-certified athletic trainers.
The program prepares students for the workforce says Dr. Ray Castle, the associate professor of professional practice and director of bachelor science and athletic training in the school of kinesiology at LSU. 
Dr. Castle explains, “They have the same credentials that I do. The same requirements as I do, and I’ve been practicing for 24-25 years.”
Keressa Ackles is a senior in the program. She has trained with the football team, track team and men’s basketball team.  
Every day she wakes up early to take her classes. And then around noon she begins her work as an athletic trainer.
Before practice begins, she sets up a hydration station and helps athletes with pre-practice treatments. If someone gets injured during practice, Ackles and her peers are first on the scene.
Following practice, she helps athletes with any additional treatments needed.
Ackles says, “All of our courses are very hands on. Everything we do is to make sure we are very competent in it when we get done.”
The athletic training program will select their next class of athletic trainers next year.  For the program’s requirements, click here.