Athletic training encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and intervention of emergency, acute and chronic medical conditions involving impairment, functional limitations and disabilities.

Athletic trainers treat a broad population, from the amateur and professional athlete to the typical patient in need of orthopedic rehabilitative care. Typical client groups include recreational, amateur and professional athletes, individuals who have suffered musculoskeletal injuuries, those seeking strength, conditioning, fitness and performance enhancement, and others designated by the physician. To become certified athletic trainers, students must graduate with a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited professional athletic training education program and pass a comprehensive test administered by the Board of Certification. Once certified, they must meet ongoing continuing education requirements in order to remain certified.

The University of Cincinnati's athletic training program requires students to complete an internship as part of the curriculum. The internship enables a student to apply the knowledge, skills and abilities acquired through academic courses and clinical education experiences in a pre-professional, immersive on-the-job experience.