Effects of the process of accreditation on undergraduate athletic training education programs

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs first accredited the profession of athletic training in 1994. Athletic Training was the allied health field devoted to the prevention and care of athletic injuries. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs\u27 accreditation process on the curriculum, finances, enrollment, and faculty of National Athletic Trainers\u27 Association approved undergraduate athletic training education programs; The effects of the process of accreditation were examined by a survey questionnaire completed by the program directors of the accredited institutions. The survey questionnaire requested information from the academic year prior to accreditation and after accreditation; The results of the study showed that accreditation had a minimal effect on the curriculum, finances, enrollment, and faculty. The primary benefits were perceived to be in improved academic status, recognition, and communication with the institution\u27s own administration