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National Athletic Trainers’ Association

2018 Salary Survey Findings

Prepared by

McKinley Advisors

Updated: January 2019

NATA 2018 SALARY SURVEY FINDINGS | MCKINLEY ADVISORS 2

Table of Contents

Table of Contents .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2

Introduction and Methodology ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 3

Respondent Demographics ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 4

Workplace Data ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 19

Salary .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21

Contract ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21

Stipend ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 21

Per Diem ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 22

Benefits ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 23

Future Trends .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 25

Salary Data by Segment ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27


Introduction and Methodology

The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) retained McKinley Advisors (McKinley) to

conduct a salary survey in order to provide an up-to-date look at the athletic trainer field and

provide professionals with important information regarding compensation and benefits.

An electronic survey was deployed to NATA members and non-members. The survey was fielded

for 15 days from October 11, 2018 to October 26, 2018. The survey instrument was distributed to a

total of 33,495 valid email addresses and was completed or partially completed by 4,705 members

for a member response rate of 20 percent and by 339 non-members for a non-member response

rate of 3 percent. NATA’s member response rate is higher than the typical member response rate

McKinley sees (10 percent) and the non-member response rate is on par with what McKinley

typically sees (2-3 percent). Pew Research Center indicates its response rates typically range

between 5 percent and 15 percent, which is comparable for other major opinion polls.1 A referral

campaign was also implemented to increase the reach of the survey resulting in 4,501 additional

responses. The total response count was 9,545, an increase of approximately 800 from 2016.

Total Responses 9,545

Member Response Rate 20 percent

Total Member Responses 4,705

Non-Member Response Rate 3 percent

Total Non-Member Responses 339

Total Referral Responses 4,501

The following report summarizes the findings from the salary survey. Respondents had to be

certified/licensed athletic trainers to participate in the survey. The report summarizes data for

respondents who completed the survey and are employed full-time, unless otherwise noted. The

data presented has been analyzed according to various demographic factors including job setting,

age, gender, ethnicity, and level of education. Data was not included for any demographic segment

with less than 10 respondents.

1 Source: http://www.pewresearch.org/methodology/u-s-survey-research/our-survey-methodology-in-detail/

http://www.pewresearch.org/methodology/u-s-survey-research/our-survey-methodology-in-detail/


Respondent Demographics

More than half of respondents (56 percent) have held their certification/licensure for less

than 10 years. Thirty-two percent have had a certification/license for between one and five years,

while 24 percent have had a certification/license for between six and 10 years. Another 26 percent

have held a certification/license for between 11 and 20 years, while 18 percent have held one for

more than 20 years.

The majority of respondents (90 percent) are members of NATA, while nine percent have lapsed in

membership and only one percent have never been members of NATA. Of those who are members

of NATA, the vast majority (95 percent) are certified regular members. Three percent are career

starter certified and one percent are certified students.

1%

32%

24%

14%12%

8%10%

Less than 1year

1 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 25 25+ years

How long have you held your certification/licensure? (N = 9,245)

95%

3% 1% 0% 0%

Certified Regular Career StarterCertified

Certified Student Unsure Certified Military -Inactive

Please select your membership category. (N = 7,614)


Almost half of all respondents (49 percent) have held membership in NATA for between one

and 10 years. Another 28 percent of respondents have been members for between 11 and 20

years, while 21 percent have been members for more than 20 years.

Respondents were most likely (17 percent) to work in high schools with an athletic only

appointment. The second and third most popular work settings are a colleges/universities as

NCAA Division I – Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic (13 percent) and as

Faculty/Academic/Research (7 percent). Other popular work settings include: Hospital – Outreach

(7 percent), Clinic -Secondary School Outreach (7 percent), High School – Both Academic and

Athletic (7 percent).

Which of the following best describes your primary work setting?

Work Setting Percentage Count

Secondary School - High School - Athletic only 17% 1449

College/University - NCAA Division I - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 13% 1088

College/University - Faculty/Academic/Research 7% 627

Hospital – Outreach 7% 573

Clinic - Secondary School Outreach 7% 557

Secondary School - High School - Both Academic and Athletic 7% 550

College/University - NCAA Division III - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 5% 443

College/University - NCAA Division II - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 4% 345

Clinic - Outpatient/Ambulatory/Rehabilitation clinic 3% 240

College/University - NAIA - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 3% 233

Clinic - Physician owned clinic 3% 232

Other 2% 209

Clinic - Hospital based clinic 2% 203

College/University - Two yr. Institution - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 1% 125

Hospital – Orthopedics 1% 116

Clinic - Other Outreach 1% 112

1%

21%

28%

16%

12%

8%7%

5%

1%

Less than1

1 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 25 26 - 30 31 - 40 More than40

How many years have you been a member of NATA? (N = 7,634)


Clinic – Administration 1% 84

Clinic – Other 1% 81

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Ergonomics 1% 74

Professional Sports – Baseball 1% 73

Hospital – Administration 1% 68

Military 1% 62

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Clinic 1% 61

College/University - NCAA Division III - Split Appointment 1% 60

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Other 1% 60

Secondary School - Middle School - Athletic only 1% 56

Secondary School - High School - Academic only 1% 47

College/University - NCAA Division II - Split Appointment 1% 44

Business/Sales/Marketing 0.5% 41

College/University - Campus Health/Recreation 0.5% 41

Hospital – Other 0.5% 40

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Health/Wellness/Fitness 0.4% 36

College/University - NAIA - Split Appointment 0.4% 35

College/University - NCAA Division I - Split Appointment 0.4% 33

College/University - Two yr. Institution - Split Appointment 0.4% 31

Professional Sports – Football 0.3% 29

Professional Performing Arts 0.3% 28

Secondary School - Middle School -Both Academic and Athletic 0.3% 27

Amateur/Recreational/Youth Sports 0.3% 25

Health/Fitness/Sports Performance Enhancement Clinic/Club 0.3% 24

Professional Sports – Other 0.3% 24

Professional Sports – Soccer 0.3% 22

College/University - Two yr. Institution - Faculty/Academic/Research 0.2% 21

Professional Sports – Hockey 0.2% 21

Military Academy 0.2% 20

Government 0.2% 14

Professional Sports - Men's Basketball 0.1% 11

College/University - Performing Arts 0.1% 5

Public Safety - Fire Department 0.1% 5

Secondary School - Middle School - Academic only 0.1% 5

Independent Contractor 0.05% 4

Public Safety - Law Enforcement 0.01% 1


Respondents working in schools, colleges and

universities reported whether the school they work in

was a private or public institution. Sixty-two percent of

respondents work in a public school, college or

university, while 38 percent work in a private school,

college or university.

The majority of respondents (68 percent) reported that

their primary employer is the same as their primary

work setting. Only 32 percent reported that these two

were different.

Respondents who reported that their primary employer was different than their primary work

setting were given the opportunity to describe their primary employer. Almost one quarter of

respondents (23 percent) described their primary employers as hospital – orthopedics, while

another 15 percent reported being employed by hospitals, but in other areas. Many respondents

are also employed by clinics including in secondary school outreach (9 percent), outpatient/

ambulatory/ rehabilitation clinics (8 percent), hospital-based clinics (7 percent) or physician

owned clinics (5 percent).

Which of the following best describes your primary employer?

Primary Employer Percentage Count

Hospital – Orthopedics 23% 599

Hospital – Other 15% 397

Clinic - Secondary School Outreach 9% 231

Clinic - Outpatient/Ambulatory/Rehabilitation clinic 8% 209

Clinic - Hospital based clinic 7% 175

Clinic - Physician owned clinic 5% 138

Hospital – Administration 5% 130

Secondary School - High School 5% 122

Clinic - Other Outreach 4% 104

Clinic – Other 3% 88

38%

62%

Which of the following best describes the school, college or university where

you work? (N = 4,475)

Private

Public

32%

68%

Is your primary employer (the organization or entity that compensates you) different than your primary work setting (the physical setting where you perform

your job)? (N = 8,363)

Yes

No


Other 3% 77

Independent Contractor 2% 51

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Other 1% 36

College/University - NCAA Division I - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 1% 34

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Ergonomics 1% 28

Health/Fitness/Sports Performance Enhancement Clinic/Club 1% 21

Business/Sales/Marketing 1% 20

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Clinic 1% 19

College/University - NCAA Division III - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 1% 18

Clinic – Administration 1% 17

College/University - Faculty/Academic/Research 1% 16

College/University - NCAA Division II - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 1% 16

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Health/Wellness/Fitness 1% 15

Professional Sports – Baseball 0.5% 12

College/University - NAIA - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 0.3% 9

College/University - Two yr. Institution - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic 0.3% 7

Government 0.3% 7

College/University - Campus Health/Recreation 0.2% 6

Military 0.2% 5

College/University - NCAA Division I - Split Appointment 0.2% 4

Professional Sports – Soccer 0.2% 4

Secondary School - Middle School 0.2% 4

Professional Sports – Hockey 0.1% 3

Professional Sports – Other 0.1% 3

Amateur/Recreational/Youth Sports 0.1% 2

College/University - NCAA Division II - Split Appointment 0.1% 2

Military Academy 0.1% 2

College/University - NAIA - Split Appointment 0.0% 1

College/University - NCAA Division III - Split Appointment 0.04% 1

College/University - Two yr. Institution - Faculty/Academic/Research 0.04% 1

Professional Performing Arts 0.04% 1


One quarter of respondents (24 percent) have more than 1,000 total employees at their

workplace. Nine percent of respondents reported working with between 501 and 1,000 other

employees, while 32 percent work in settings with between 101 and 500 total employees. Thirty-

six percent of respondents work 100 or fewer other employees.

The majority of respondents (64 percent) work with less than 10 other athletic trainers. Nineteen

percent have between 11 and 20 athletic trainers at their workplace, while 17 percent have more

than 20.

11%

7% 7%

11%

14%

9%

5% 4% 5% 4%

24%

1 - 10 11 - 25 26 - 50 51 - 100 101 -200

201 -300

301 -400

401 -500

501 -750

751 -1,000

Morethan1,000

What is the approximate number of total employees at your workplace? (N = 8,239)

15%

30%

19%

12%

7% 7%

3% 2%5%

1 2 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 30 31 - 40 41 - 50 More than50

What is the approximate number of athletic trainers employed at your workplace? (N = 8,288)


Almost one third of respondents (31 percent) described their primary job title as Athletic

Trainer. Another 40 percent were more specific and reported being Head Athletic Trainer (19

percent), Assistant Athletic Trainer (17 percent), or Associate Athletic Trainer (4 percent).

Which of the following best describes your primary job title?

Primary Job Title Percentage Count

Athletic Trainer 31% 2535

Head Athletic Trainer 19% 1609

Assistant Athletic Trainer 17% 1367

Other 6% 458

Associate Athletic Trainer 4% 307

Director of Sports Medicine 2% 195

Teacher 2% 141

Assistant Professor 2% 140

Clinical Coordinator 1% 115

Manager 1% 104

Director of Athletic Training Services 1% 84

Associate Professor - Program Director 1% 80

Medical Office Staff 1% 80

Graduate Student/Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainer 1% 74

Associate Professor 1% 70

Assistant Athletic Director 1% 65

Intern Athletic Trainer 1% 59

Assistant Professor - Program Director 1% 57

Coordinator of Athletic Training Services 1% 54

Clinical Specialist 1% 49

Physical Therapist 1% 49

Lecturer/Instructor 1% 47

Supervisor 1% 47

Associate Athletic Director 1% 46

Administrative Coordinator 0.4% 37

Coordinator of Sports Medicine 0.4% 36

Full Professor - Program Director 0.4% 35

Full Professor 0.4% 34

Outreach Coordinator 0.4% 31

Administrative Director 0.4% 29

Owner/Partner 0.3% 28

Sales/Marketing Professional 0.3% 28

Physical Therapist Assistant 0.3% 27

Clinical Administrator 0.2% 20

Full Professor - Department Chair 0.2% 18


Which of the following best describes your primary job title? (Continued)

Primary Job Title Percentage Count

Associate Professor - Department Chair 0.2% 17

Athletic Director 0.2% 15

Director of Rehabilitation 0.2% 15

Assistant Professor - Department Chair 0.2% 14

Clinical Director 0.1% 10

Wellness Director 0.1% 9

Outreach Director 0.1% 8

Wellness Coordinator 0.1% 8

Consultant 0.1% 7

Coordinator of Rehabilitation 0.1% 6

Fitness Director 0.1% 6

Educational Consultant 0.05% 4

Fitness Coordinator 0.05% 4

Respondents were most likely to directly report to Athletic Directors (19 percent) or Head Athletic

Trainers (13 percent). Fourteen percent of respondents also report to Directors of Athletic Training

(7 percent) or Sports Medicine Directors (7 percent). Six percent of respondents specified other

positions. Nineteen percent of those that were more specific identified additional Athletic Trainer

positions including those who were Lead Athletic Trainers and Assistant Athletic Trainers.

Fourteen percent reported being an educator as well as an Athletic Trainer. Other titles written in

include Physician Extender (9%), Durable Medical Equipment Coordinator/Specialist (9%), Clinical

Care (6%), Administrator (5%), Injury Prevention Specialist (4%), Assistant Director of Sports

Medicine (3%).

Please indicate the position that you directly report to.

Position Percentage Count

Athletic Director 19% 1529

Head Athletic Trainer 13% 1023

Director of Athletic Training 7% 548

Sports Medicine Director 7% 533

Other, please specify: 6% 502

Clinical Supervisor 6% 498

Clinic Manager 5% 371

Academic Chair/Dean 4% 300

Outreach Coordinator 4% 288

Department Head 3% 227

Physician 3% 211

Program Director 3% 211

Administrator 2% 177

Department Chair 2% 172


Please indicate the position that you directly report to. (Continued)

Position Percentage Count

Athletic Trainer 2% 158

Physical Therapist 2% 156

Clinic Director 2% 152

Assistant Athletic Director 2% 151

Associate Athletic Director 2% 140

Vice President 1% 104

Administrative Director 1% 98

Principal 1% 83

Regional Director 1% 80

Chief Executive Officer 1% 79

Business Manager 1% 66

Athletic Coordinator 1% 59

Dean 1% 59

Associate Athletic Trainer 1% 50

Assistant Athletic Trainer 0.4% 36

Center Manager 0.4% 34

Head of School/Principal 0.4% 33

Chief Medical Officer 0.2% 18

Assistant Principal 0.2% 17

Campus Coordinator 0.1% 10

Teacher 0.1% 7

More than 60 percent of respondents have worked in their current positions for five years or

less, including 18 percent of whom have been in their current positions for less than a year. Sixteen

percent have been in their current position for between six and 10 years, while 15 percent have

been in the reported position for 11 to 20 years. Only 6 percent have been in their current positions

for more than 20 years.


Almost one third of respondents (30 percent) also reported working in the athletic training

profession for five years or less. Another quarter of respondents (24 percent) have worked in the

profession for between six and 10 years, 26 percent between 11 and 20 years and 20 percent more

than 20 years.

Respondents were asked to select the major metropolitan area that best represents their place of

employment. Respondents were most likely to be from the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, New York-

Newark-Jersey City, or Philadelphia-Campden-Wilmington areas.

18%

45%

16%

9%6%

3% 2% 1% 0%

Less than1

1 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 25 26 - 30 31 - 40 More than40

How many years have you worked in your current position? (N = 7,746)

3%

27%24%

14% 12%8% 6% 5%

1%

Less than1

1 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 25 26 - 30 31 - 40 More than40

How many years have you worked in the athletic training profession (including years worked during graduate school)?

(N = 7,745)


Top 20 Nearest Major Metropolitan Area

Major Metro Area Percentage Count

Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI Metro Area 3% 215

New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA Metro Area 3% 207

Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD Metro Area 3% 176

Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA Metro Area 2% 160

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX Metro Area 2% 157

Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI Metro Area 2% 149

Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Metro Area 2% 141

None 2% 134

Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metro Area 2% 128

Kansas City, MO-KS Metro Area 2% 128

Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA Metro Area 2% 116

Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN Metro Area 2% 103

Pittsburgh, PA Metro Area 2% 99

Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC Metro Area 1% 97

Columbus, OH Metro Area 1% 90

Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Metro Area 1% 84

Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD Metro Area 1% 79

Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ Metro Area 1% 78

St. Louis, MO-IL Metro Area 1% 75

Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA Metro Area 1% 74

Raleigh, NC Metro Area 1% 71

Respondents were most likely to be from District Four (21 percent), District Nine (15 percent) or

District Three (14 percent). Respondents were least likely to be from District Ten (4 percent),

District One (5 percent) or District Seven (5 percent).

5%

13%14%

21%

9%7%

5% 6%

15%

4%

One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten

District (N = 7,599)


Respondents were asked to describe

the area in which they work. Forty-

three percent work in a suburban

area, while 30 percent work in an

urban setting. Twenty-three percent

work in a rural setting.

The majority of respondents hold a Master’s degree (68 percent), while 23 percent hold a

Bachelor’s and eight percent hold a doctorate.

Almost all respondents (99 percent) reported being Certified Athletic Trainers, while the majority

(60 percent) also reported being Licensed Athletic Trainers. Nine percent also reported being

Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialists, 7 percent are Corrective Exercise Specialists and 7

percent have a teaching certificate.

0% 0%

23%

68%

8%1%

High school Some college Bachelor'sDegree

Master's Degree Doctorate Other

Please select your highest level of education. (N = 7,724)

23%

43%

30%

percent

Which of the following best describes the area in which you work? (N = 7,737)

Rural

Suburban

Urban

Unsure


More than 70 percent of respondents holding the ATC (72 percent) or CES (77 percent) credentials

also indicated that their primary job title was Athletic Trainer^. Similarly, more than 60 percent of

those holding the CSCS or DAT credentials also reported that they were Athletic Trainers^.

Credential by Athletic Trainer Job Title

Credential % selecting AT^ as primary job title Sample

Size

ATC (Certified Athletic Trainer) 72% 8,418

CES (Corrective Exercise Specialist) 77% 4,995

CSCS (Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist) 64% 811

DAT (Doctor of Athletic Training) 63% 753

DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) 59% 622

EdD (Doctor of Education) 77% 599

EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) 71% 513

LAT (Licensed Athletic Trainer) 3% 245

LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist) 73% 237

0%0%0%0%0%0%0%0%1%1%1%1%1%2%2%3%3%

6%7%7%9%10%

59%99%

OT (Occupational Therapist)

None of the above

NP (Nurse Practitioner)

LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse)

PA (Physician Assistant)

RN (Registered Nurse)

Paramedic

LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist)

DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy)

PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant)

DAT (Doctor of Athletic Training)

PT (Physical Therapist)

EdD (Doctor of Education)

Personal Trainer

OTC (Orthopedic Technician)

EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)

PhD

PES (Performance Enhancement Specialist)

Teaching Certificate

CES (Corrective Exercise Specialist)

CSCS (Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist)

Other

LAT (Licensed Athletic Trainer)

ATC (Certified Athletic Trainer)

Which professional credentials do you hold? Select all that apply. (N = 7,745)


Credential by Athletic Trainer Job Title (Continued)

Credential % selecting AT^ as primary job title Sample

Size

LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) 74% 177

NP (Nurse Practitioner) 58% 161

OT (Occupational Therapist) 8% 105

OTC (Orthopedic Technician) 10% 102

PA (Physician Assistant) 50% 80

Paramedic 52% 77

Personal Trainer 10% 48

PES (Performance Enhancement Specialist) 81% 42

PhD 56% 16

PT (Physical Therapist) 18% 11

*Data for the following options are not shown due to low sample sizes: PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant), RN (Registered Nurse), Teaching Certificate, Other, None of the above

^For the purpose of this analysis AT includes the following job titles: Athletic Trainer, Head Athletic Trainer, Assistant Athletic Trainer, Associate Athletic Trainer, Graduate Student/Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainer, Intern Athletic Trainer

The majority of respondents (59 percent) are young professionals under the age of 36.

Twenty-three percent are between the ages of 36 and 45, 12 percent are between 46 and 55 and

only 5 percent are older than 55.

The majority of respondents (87 percent) reported a white or Caucasian ethnicity. Additionally, 5

percent are Hispanic or Latino, 3 percent are Black or African American, 2 percent are Asian/Asian

American and 1 percent are American Indian/Alaskan Natives.

59%

23%12%

5% 0% 0%

17 - 35 36 - 45 46 - 55 56 - 65 Older than 65 Prefer not toanswer

Please select your age range. (N = 7,736)


Fifty-five percent of respondents are female, while 45 percent are male. When comparing females

and males by age, females were much younger. Seventy percent of females were between the ages

of 17 and 35, compared to 47 percent of males.

0%

0%

1%

1%

2%

3%

5%

87%

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

Not listed

American Indian/Alaskan Native

Prefer not to answer

Asian/ Asian American

Black or African American (not of Hispanic origin)

Hispanic or Latino

White or Caucasian (not of Hispanic origin)

Please select your ethnicity (N = 7,930)

55%

45%

0.1% 0.3%

Please select your gender. (N = 7,726)

Female Male Not listed Prefer not to answer70%

20%

8%2% 0%

47%

27%17%

8%1%

17 - 35 36 - 45 46 - 55 56 - 65 Olderthan 65

Gender by Age

Female (N = 4,741) Male (N = 3,692)


Workplace Data

Respondents were asked to report the percentage of their time that they actually spend performing

athletic training work. Seventy percent of respondents spend more than 75 percent of their time on

athletic training work, with 45 percent spending all of their time on athletic training work.

When asked to compare the hours per week respondents are required to work versus how many

hours per week they typically work, the difference is about 11 hours on average. Respondents

reported being required to work approximately 39 hours, but working an average of 50.

Average Hours Required to Work and Hours Typically Worked

Average Required Hours Per Week Average Typical Hours Per Week Average Difference

39 50 11

The majority of respondents (68 percent) do not supervise employees. Less than one third of

respondents reported supervising employees.

29%

7%13%

5%

45%

75% or less 76 - 80% 81 - 90% 91 - 99% 100%

Approximately what percentage of your time in this position is spent performing athletic training work (i.e., all business related to athletic

training such as teaching, clinical work, etc.)? (N = 8,152)

32%

68%

Do you supervise employees? (N = 7,913)

Yes No


However, of those who supervise employees, 64 percent supervise between one and five

employees. Sixteen percent supervise between six and 10, 8 percent between 11 and 15 and 4

percent between 16 and 20. Only 8 percent supervise more than 20 employees.

The vast majority of respondents (88 percent) are compensated for their athletic training work

with a salary. Eight percent are compensated through contracts, 7 percent through stipends and 4

percent through per diem or PRN. When looking more closely at those who receive compensation

through a contract, stipend, per diem or other means, we find that in many of these cases, these

individuals also receive a salary. More than half (54 percent) of those who receive compensation

through a contract also receive a salary, followed by 45 percent of those who collect per diem

compensation and 40 percent of those holding a contract. Respondents who reported receiving

“other” compensation were the least likely to also collect a salary (21 percent).

Compensation for Athletic Training Work

Compensation Percent Also Receiving Salary

Contract 54%

Stipend 40%

Per diem (or PRN) 45%

Other 21%

64%

16%8% 4% 8%

1 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 More than 20

How many employees do you supervise? (N = 2,514)

88%

8% 7% 6% 4%

Salary Contract Stipend Other Per diem (or PRN)

How are you compensated for your athletic training work? Select all that apply. (N = 8,110)


Salary The average national salary for all respondents who are full time, employed

certified/licensed athletic trainers in 2018 was $57,203. This represents a 4 percent increase,

and approximately $2,371, since 2016 when the average national salary was $54,832. This is also

an increase of more than $12,000 since 2008. Respondents were also asked for their typical bonus

award. The overall average for respondents who are full time, employed certified/licensed athletic

trainers in 2018 was $1,160.

Contract Eight percent of respondents reported that

they conduct work through a contract. These

respondents were most likely (58 percent) to

indicate their contract length was 12 months.

Twenty-seven percent reported a 10-month

contract, while 15 percent indicated they hold

contracts that are a different length of time.

Respondents with other contract lengths

reported a wide variety ranging from as short

as three months to as long eight years. The most popular contract lengths, besides those listed

above, were 11 months (19 percent) and 9 months (18 percent). The overall average hourly rate

under contract was $26. Those working a 10-month contract reported a slightly lower hourly rate

with an average of $24 and those with contract lengths other than 10 or 12 months, reported a

higher hourly rate with an average of $31.

Stipend Seven percent of respondents reported that they conduct work through a stipend. These

respondents were asked to include the total amount of that stipend, the total number of months and

total number of hours per month of athletic training work that stipend covers. Total stipends, on

average, are $10,069, cover 9.3 months and 101 hours per month.

Average Stipend Amount, Number of Months and Hours per Month

Average Stipend Amount Average Number of Months Average Number of Hours

per Month

$10,069 9.3 101

$44,235$51,483 $55,036 $54,832

$57,203

2008 2011 2014 2016 2018

Average National Salary

27%

58%

15%

Please indicate the length of your contract. (N = 664)

10-month

12-month

Other


Per Diem Four percent of respondents reported that they conduct per diem work. These respondents were

most likely to do so in secondary schools (63 percent) and amateur/ recreational/ youth sports (58

percent). Yet, 35 percent perform per diem work in colleges/ universities and 10 percent perform

per diem work in professional sports.

Respondents performing per diem work at colleges/universities, in professional sports or in other

settings not listed, reported the highest hourly rates. Those working in other settings, such as

industrial/occupational settings, hospital-based settings or sports-related camps/clinics, reported

the highest hourly rate of $39 followed by those in professional sports at $32 with those working at

colleges/universities at $30. Those working in health/fitness clinics or clubs earn approximately

$29 for their per diem work while those in amateur/recreational/youth sports and those working

in secondary schools report an average hourly rate of $28.

Please enter the average hourly rate you receive for your per diem work in each of the following settings.

Work Setting Average Hourly Rate Count

Other $39 25

Professional Sports $32 31

College/University $30 120

Health/Fitness/Sports Performance Enhancement Clinic/Club $29 22

Amateur/Recreational/Youth Sports $28 203

Secondary School $28 221

*Per diem hourly rate data for the following settings are not shown due to low sample size: Professional

Performing Arts

1%

6%

7%

10%

35%

58%

63%

Professional Performing Arts

Health/Fitness/Sports Performance EnhancementClinic/Club

Other

Professional Sports

College/University

Amateur/Recreational/Youth Sports

Secondary School

In which settings do you perform per diem (or PRN) work? (N =250 )


Respondents performing per diem work were asked if they incurred any additional expenses that

were not accounted for in their average hourly rate or covered by a client. Forty-two percent of

respondents purchase liability insurance, 37 percent pay for accommodations related to travel and

23 percent make medical supply purchases.

Benefits Respondents were most likely (70 percent) to report an average annual salary increase of less than

four percent. Fourteen percent receive a 1 percent increase, 34 percent a 2 percent increase and 22

percent a 3 percent increase. One fifth of respondents reported that they do not receive any annual

salary increase. Additionally, out of all respondents, 17 percent were unsure what, if any, annual

salary increase they receive.

42%

37%

23%

5%

Liability insurance Accommodationsrelated to travel

Medical supplypurchases

Other

Do you incur any of the following additional expenses related to per diem work that are NOT accounted for in your average hourly rate or covered

by the client? Select all that apply. (N = 350)

21%

14%

34%

22%

2% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%4%

None 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 6% 7% 8% 9% 10% Other

What is your average annual salary increase at your current employer? (N = 6,533)

Unsure removed


More than 80 percent of respondents reported receiving basic benefits, including medical insurance

(95 percent), dental insurance (88 percent) and access to a retirement plan (86 percent). More than

three-fourths of respondents reported receiving vision insurance (79 percent) and a continuing

education allowance or reimbursement (75 percent). Seventy percent also received paid time off

(PTO). Respondents were least likely to receive local transportation subsidies (10 percent) or

bonuses (18 percent). Although 46 percent of all respondents reported maternity leave, when

looking more specifically at females, this increases to 55 percent. Similarly, 23 percent of all

respondents reported paternity leave, but when looking more specifically at males, this increase to

32 percent.

When it comes to Paid Time Off (PTO), respondents reported having the greatest number of

vacation days, followed by sick leave and finally paid holidays. Respondents reported receiving on

average 16 vacation days, nine sick days and six paid holidays. In order to account for flexible leave

1%

5%

10%

18%

23%

30%

44%

44%

45%

46%

50%

54%

70%

75%

79%

86%

88%

95%

None of the above

Other

Local transportation subsidy

Bonus eligibility

Paternity leave

Flexible work schedule

Membership in professional group

Professional liability insurance

Education/tuition assistance

Maternity leave

FSA (Flexible spending account)

HSA (Health savings account)

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Continuing education allowance/reimbursement

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Dental insurance

Medical insurance

Please select the benefits your employer offers. Select all that apply. (N = 7,926)


policies respondents were asked to enter “365” if they received unlimited PTO in the same areas.

Five percent of respondents reported unlimited paid holidays, 6 percent reported unlimited sick

days and 4 percent reported unlimited vacation days. Respondents were also given an opportunity

to explain any restrictions to their paid time off. One quarter (26 percent) reported no restrictions

on their paid time off, while another quarter (25 percent) reported that PTO may only be used

during specific seasons or months when sports are not active. Eight percent of respondents also

indicated that they would need to find coverage before taking time off and 6 percent reported that

their employers encourage them not to take time off during specific seasons or months despite

there being no official policy.

Average Amount of Paid Time Off

Paid Holidays Sick Days Vacation Days

6 9 16

Future Trends

Respondents are optimistic about the

future of their compensation from

athletic training work. Sixty-seven

percent of respondents expect their

income to increase over the next three

years. Thirty-two percent expect it to stay

the same and only 1 percent expect their

income to decrease during that time

period.

When asked what strategies respondents have used to advocate for increased compensation, half

reported they use the NATA survey. Nineteen percent use the NATA Value model, while 10 percent

use the NATA Position Improvement Guide. Finally, 8 percent use the ROI Report and only 5

percent use union support. Twenty percent reported using other strategies effectively including

other survey or report data, demonstrations of merit and performance and changing positions,

contract lengths or receiving promotions.

5%

8%

10%

19%

20%

50%

Union support

ROI Report

NATA Position Improvement Guide

NATA Value Model

Other

Previous NATA Survey

Which of the following strategies have you used to effectively advocate for increased compensation over the past 3 years? (N = 7,866)

67%

32%

percent

Do you expect your compensation from athletic training to increase, decrease or stay the same over the next 3 years? (N = 7,843)

Increase

Stay the same

Decrease


Top challenges for the next three to five years include work life balance, lack of public

understanding of the role of athletic trainers and third-party reimbursement. More than half of

respondents reported that achieving work life balance (57 percent) and the lack of public

understanding of the profession (54 percent) is going to be a major challenge. Slightly less than half

reported third-party reimbursement would be a major challenge as well. Lack of diversity in the

profession (64 percent) and the increasing focus on team-based care (57 percent) were not

reported as challenges athletic trainers are expecting to impact their work over the next three to

five years.

13%

15%

21%

32%

37%

47%

54%

57%

23%

28%

34%

27%

32%

22%

28%

24%

64%

57%

44%

41%

31%

31%

18%

19%

Lack of diversity in the profession

Increasing focus on team-based care

Keeping up with the speed of new developmentsin the field

Increasing education requirements

Expanding the scope of practice for ATs

Third party reimbursement

Lack of public understanding of the role ofathletic trainers

Achieving or maintaining work life balance

How much of a challenge will the following trends and issues present to you in the next 3 – 5 years? (N = 7,263)

Unsure removed

Major challenge (4 or 5) Minor challenge (3) Not a challenge (1 or 2)


Salary Data by Segment

As mentioned earlier, the average national salary for all respondents who are full time, employed

certified/licensed athletic trainers in 2018 was $57,203, which represents a 4 percent increase

since 2016.The following section shows average salary by various demographic and work place

factors.

Average salaries for various job settings ranged from $45,786 for athletic trainers in clinics –

secondary school outreach to $126,447 for athletic trainers working in professional sports –

football. Looking at salaries by job setting revealed that professional sports athletic trainers,

specifically those in football and men’s basketball, as well as hospital administrators reported the

highest salaries, all more than $100,000. Of the five most prominent job settings, high school

athletic only appointments, college/university – NCAA Division I – professional

staff/athletics/clinic, college/university – faculty/academic/research, hospital – outreach and

clinical – secondary school outreach, those working in colleges or universities as faculty or research

reported the highest salary at an average of $73,540.

Average Salary by Job Setting

Job Setting Average Salary Count

Professional Sports - Football $126,447 19

Professional Sports - Men's Basketball $103,700 10

Hospital - Administration $102,856 60

Health/Fitness/Sports Performance Enhancement Clinic/Club $85,698 18

Business/Sales/Marketing $73,782 33

College/University - Faculty/Academic/Research $73,540 571

Clinic - Administration $72,369 79

Professional Sports - Baseball $72,110 59

Professional Performing Arts $70,263 25

Professional Sports - Other $70,250 20

Hospital - Other $70,083 24

Government $69,894 11

Secondary School - Middle School -Both Academic and Athletic $66,312 16

Military Academy $66,217 17

College/University - Two yr. Institution - Faculty/Academic/Research $65,983 16

College/University - Two yr. Institution - Split Appointment $63,846 29

Secondary School - High School - Academic only $62,345 24

Other $62,069 154

Hospital - Orthopedics $61,414 79

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Other $61,325 45

College/University - Two yr. Institution - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic $59,911 110

Amateur/Recreational/Youth Sports $59,667 22

Military $59,389 51


Average Salary by Job Setting (Continued)

Job Setting Average Salary Count

Professional Sports - Soccer $59,305 21

Clinic - Hospital based clinic $59,268 158

Clinic - Other $59,257 55

College/University - NCAA Division III - Split Appointment $58,841 57

Clinic - Outpatient/Ambulatory/Rehabilitation clinic $58,816 174

Secondary School - High School - Both Academic and Athletic $58,603 368

Professional Sports - Hockey $57,906 17

College/University - NCAA Division I - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic $57,656 964

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Ergonomics $56,841 60

College/University - NCAA Division I - Split Appointment $56,813 26

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Clinic $56,037 50

College/University - NCAA Division II - Split Appointment $55,909 44

Industrial/Occupational/Corporate - Health/Wellness/Fitness $55,537 29

Secondary School - Middle School - Athletic only $54,190 47

Clinic - Physician owned clinic $53,712 175

Secondary School - High School - Athletic only $52,868 1222

Hospital - Outreach $52,496 470

College/University - NCAA Division II - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic $49,833 316

College/University - NCAA Division III - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic $49,478 420

College/University - Campus Health/Recreation $49,335 37

College/University - NAIA - Split Appointment $49,033 32

Clinic - Other Outreach $48,969 89

College/University - NAIA - Professional Staff/Athletics/Clinic $45,993 205

Clinic - Secondary School Outreach $45,786 454 *Salary data for the following job settings are not shown due to low sample size: College/University – Performing Arts, Independent Contractor, Public Safety – Fire Department, Public Safety – Law Enforcement, Secondary School – Middle School – Academic only


As in previous years, athletic trainers who hold a master’s or doctoral degree earn more, on

average, than those holding a bachelor’s degree. Despite earning the least, athletic trainers holding

a bachelor’s degree saw the greatest increase in salary from 2016, tightening the gap in salary

between those with a bachelor’s degree and those with a master’s degree by about $1,800.

As expected, athletic trainers reported earning more as their years of experience increase.

Respondents in the middle of their careers (11–15 years of experience) saw more than a

$3,600 increase in average salary. This was the greatest increase of any experience group. On

average, there is a 13 percent increase in salary every five years, with the largest increase for those

moving from between one and five years of experience to between six and 10 years. Despite an

overall average increase in salary, starting salaries for those with less than one year of experience

have remained flat since 2014.

Average Salary by Years of Experience

Years of Experience 2008 2011 2014 2016 2018

Less than 1 $29,749 $34,623 $38,214 $38,825 $38,651

1 - 5 $34,436 $37,106 $41,568 $42,320 $44,400

6 - 10 $41,677 $44,505 $49,204 $48,786 $52,099

11 - 15 $49,238 $54,012 $60,329 $56,020 $59,635

16 - 20 $53,498 $62,143 $66,860 $65,752 $65,338

21 - 25 $59,688 $66,030 $66,626 $71,005 $71,833

25+ $63,409 $75,202 $82,180 $79,191 $79,558

$39,096$46,176

$49,719 $48,498$52,010

$44,707$51,144 $54,660

$54,695 $56,347

$65,333

$76,262$80,011 $81,921 $79,418

$20,000

$30,000

$40,000

$50,000

$60,000

$70,000

$80,000

$90,000

2008 2011 2014 2016 2018

*Salary data for the following education levels are not shown due to low sample size: high school, some college

Average Salary By Degree Level

Bachelor's Master's Doctorate


As with years of experience, respondents reported earning more as their NATA membership tenure

increased. The average salary for those with less than one year of membership tenure and those

with between one and five years of membership tenure was essentially unchanged. However, the

largest percentage increase in salary was for those moving from between one and five years of

tenure to between six and 10 years of tenure.

Average Salary by Years as NATA Member

Years as NATA Member Average Salary Count

Less than 1 $42,285 29

1 - 5 $42,539 1206

6 - 10 $50,140 1829

11 - 15 $57,807 1080

16 - 20 $66,517 824

21 - 25 $70,509 557

25+ years $79,709 863

Interestingly, members of NATA were likely to make a higher salary than non-members at almost

every level of experience. Initially, non-members see a slightly higher salary than members, but this

flattens out within the first five years where members and non-members make essentially the same

salary. After that, salaries for NATA members are consistently higher and reach an average of

$80,059 for those with 25 or more years of experience, compared to just $62,113 for non-members

with similar experience.

Average Salary by Years of Experience and Membership Status

Years of Experience Average Members' Salaries Average Non-Members' Salaries

Less than 1 $38,302 $42,545

1 - 5 $44,358 $44,763

6 - 10 $52,414 $49,545

11 - 15 $60,381 $52,850

16 - 20 $65,562 $61,141

21 - 25 $72,247 $63,794

25+ years $80,059 $62,113


District Eight continues to report earning the highest average salary, followed by District Six

and District Two. All three of these districts are above the national average of $57,203, with

District Eight reporting an average salary approximately 15 percent higher. District Eight and

District Ten were the two districts to see the greatest salary increases from 2016 as well, with

increases of over $5,000 and over $4,500, respectively. Alternatively, District Five, District Nine and

District Three reported the lowest average salaries.

Average Salary by District

District Average Salary Count

District One $56,191 379

District Two $60,541 872

District Three $55,426 894

District Four $55,832 1384

District Five $52,730 617

District Six $61,982 484

District Seven $58,033 326

District Eight $67,088 368

District Nine $53,977 1019

District Ten $55,525 264

District Eight, District Six and District Two remained the top earning districts for NATA members.

However, when looking at non-member’s salaries within each district, District Seven, District Six

and District Nine were the highest earning districts. As seen previously though, salaries for NATA

members were higher in all districts than those for non-members.

Average Salary by District and Membership Status

District Average Members' Salaries Average Non-Members' Salaries

District One $56,817 $49,402

District Two $61,234 $50,444

District Three $55,870 $49,763

District Four $56,864 $48,412

District Five $53,143 $45,186

District Six $62,727 $55,055

District Seven $58,197 $55,869

District Eight $67,660 $48,511

District Nine $54,083 $53,137

District Ten $55,708 * *Salary data for the following districts are not shown due to low sample size: D10 non-members


Below are the average annual salaries based on major metropolitan area for the top 20 cities.

Salaries ranged from $47,986 in St. Louis to $72,413 in Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim.

Average Salary by Major Metro Area

Major Metro Area Average Salary Count

Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA Metro Area $72,413 101

Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Metro Area $68,187 124

New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA Metro Area $68,013 190

Columbus, OH Metro Area $64,511 80

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX Metro Area $64,105 144

Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI Metro Area $61,193 61

Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI Metro Area $60,987 130

Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metro Area $59,125 119

Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD Metro Area $59,098 161

Pittsburgh, PA Metro Area $59,041 88

Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI Metro Area $58,753 186

Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ Metro Area $57,157 60

Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN Metro Area $56,825 81

Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD Metro Area $56,370 69

Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC Metro Area $54,546 73

Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC Metro Area $54,339 61

Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Metro Area $53,694 72

Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA Metro Area $53,006 136

Kansas City, MO-KS Metro Area $52,338 99

St. Louis, MO-IL Metro Area $47,986 66

As in previous years, young professionals (ages 35 and under) make up a majority of survey

respondents and earn approximately 43 percent less ($48,592) than those over the age of 35

($69,549).

Average Salary by Age

Age Average Salary Count

17 - 35 $48,592 3916

36 and older $69,549 2783

36 - 45 $64,865 1632

46 - 55 $73,306 826

56 - 65 $84,089 303

Older than 65 $75,704 22


Female athletic trainers continue to earn less than their male counterparts. However, the gap is

closing as female athletic trainer’s salaries increased over $3,000 while male athletic trainer’s

salaries only increased approximately $1,800. The average female salary increased to $53,240,

while male salaries increased to $62,008.

Average Salary by Gender

2011 2014 2016 2018

Female $42,676 $50,146 $50,091 $53,240

Male $54,925 $59,546 $60,180 $62,008

Overall, female athletic trainers were younger (69 percent 35 or younger compared to 46 percent of

males), have shorter tenures in the field (37 percent less than five years compared to 23 percent

less than five years for males), and were less likely to supervise employees (25 percent compared

to 41 percent of males).

However, when taking a closer look at salaries by years of experience, age and those who supervise

employees, we find that males out earn females in every match up. Young males earn more than

young females, less experienced males earn more than less experienced females and males that

don’t supervise employees earn more than females who don’t supervise employees. On average,

males still earn approximately than $8,700 more than females.

69%

21%8% 2% 0%

46%

28%18%

8% 1%

17 - 35 36 - 45 46 - 55 56 - 65 Older than65

Age by Gender

Female (N = 4,250) Male (N = 3,436)

4%

33%27%

14%10%

5% 6%2%

21% 20%14% 14% 12%

17%

Less than 1 1 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 25 25+ years

Years of Experience by Gender

Female (N = 4,243) Male (N = 3,433)

75%

25%

59%41%

No Yes

Supervising Employees by Gender

Female (N = 4,142) Male (N = 3,289)


Average Salary by Years of Experience and Gender

Years of Experience

Female Male Difference

Less than 1 $37,836 $40,343 $2,507

1 - 5 $44,441 $44,324 -$117

6 - 10 $51,886 $52,552 $667

11 - 15 $57,099 $62,684 $5,585

16 - 20 $61,975 $68,446 $6,471

21 - 25 $66,970 $74,493 $7,523

25+ years $73,731 $82,447 $8,716

Average Salary by Supervising Employees and Gender

Supervising Employees

Female Male Difference

No $50,423 $53,957 $3,534

Yes $59,854 $72,202 $12,349

Average Salary by Age and Gender

Age Female Male Difference

17 - 35 $48,234 $49,178 $944

35+ years old $64,498 $72,933 $8,435

36 - 45 $61,342 $67,905 $6,563

46 - 55 $69,122 $75,484 $6,362

56 - 65 $77,961 $86,210 $8,249

Older than 65 * $74,617 *Salary data for the following options are not shown due to low sample size: Female older than 65

In 2018, the majority of respondents were White or Caucasian and reported having an average

salary of $57,092. Hispanic or Latino respondents comprised 5 percent of respondents and

reported an average salary of $55,420.

Average Salary by Ethnicity

Ethnicity Average Salary Count

American Indian / Alaskan Native $51,120 60

Asian / Asian American $60,220 185

Black or African American (not of Hispanic origin) $53,600 231

Hispanic or Latino $55,420 370

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander $73,582 15

White or Caucasian (not of Hispanic origin) $57,092 6921

Not listed $71,511 38

Prefer not to answer $59,865 110

As in previous years, those with supervising responsibilities make higher salaries than those

without. On average, those who supervise employees make 30 percent more than those who do not

supervise employees. Additionally, as athletic trainers supervise more employees, their salary

increases by approximately 10 percent per every five employees.


Average Salary by Number of Employees Supervised

Number of Employees Supervised Average Salary Count

0 $51,645 4456

1 – 5 $61,770 1462

6 – 10 $69,445 380

11 – 15 $72,855 182

16 – 20 $83,092 82

More than 10 $82,562 450

More than 15 $89,155 268

More than 20 $91,827 186

Respondents were also asked about the credentials that they held. Licensed physical therapists

reported the highest average salary at $108,237 for PTs and $95,195 for DPTs. Those holding other

doctoral degrees, specifically PhDs and EdDs also reported higher salaries at $81,628 and $77,221, respectively. Respondents were most likely to report holding the ATC and, on average, these

individuals make $57,276. The second most held credential was the LAT and these individuals

make, on average, $54,442.

Average Salary by Credentials

Credentials Average Salary Count

PT (Physical Therapist) $108,237 92

DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) $95,195 43

PhD $81,628 241

EdD (Doctor of Education) $77,221 99

CSCS (Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist) $63,908 704

Teaching Certificate $63,781 532

PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant) $62,387 68

EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) $62,234 218

PES (Performance Enhancement Specialist) $61,527 492

DAT (Doctor of Athletic Training) $61,240 75

CES (Corrective Exercise Specialist) $61,201 564

Other $59,601 750

OTC (Orthopedic Technician) $58,804 157

ATC (Certified Athletic Trainer) $57,276 7676

Paramedic $56,362 15

LAT (Licensed Athletic Trainer) $54,442 4597

Personal Trainer $53,514 153

LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist) $50,765 31 *Salary data for the following options are not shown due to low sample size: LPN (Licensed

Practical Nurse), NP (Nurse Practitioner), OT (Occupational Therapist), PA (Physician

Assistant), RN (Registered Nurse), None of the above


When comparing the tenure in the field of Physical Therapists and those holding a Doctor of

Physical Therapy, PT’s have much longer tenure. Half of PTs (50 percent) have been in the athletic

training field for more than 20 years compared to less than 20 percent of DPTs. Similarly, 35

percent of DPTs have been in the field for less than five years compared to 17 percent of PTs.

2%

16%

9%12% 12%

15% 13%17%

6%10%

25% 25%

6%

15%

8% 6%4%

0%

Less than1

1 - 5 6 - 10 11 - 15 16 - 20 21 - 25 26 - 30 31 - 40 More than40

Tenure in the Field: PT vs. DPT

PT (N = 103) DPT (N = 48)

national athletic trainers’ association...1227 25th st. nw, suite 201, washington dc 20037...

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