Graduate Assistantships

At The University of Alabama, we take great pride in interviewing exceptional applicants, hiring qualified individuals and aiding in their Athletic Training education during their two year appointment as a Graduate Assistant.

Many institutions rotate Graduate Assistants between sports with the idea of broadening their education. At Alabama, we allow our Graduate Assistants to work with one sport for a two year period. The relationships our Graduate Assistants make with their athletes, coaches and support staff closely resemble a staff position.

Athletic Training Opportunities for Graduate Assistants at The University of Alabama:

• Women’s Volleyball
• Women’s Rowing (Varsity)
• Women’s Rowing (Novice)
• Women’s Cross Country/Track and Field
• Men’s and Women’s Tennis
• Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving
• Cheerleading
• Football

Graduate School Requirements

During your two year appointment, Graduate Assistants work towards a Master of Science in Health Studies with a Concentration in Athletic Training. This is a six semester program that begins the summer before your first year at The University of Alabama. Although the majority of the Master’s Curriculum is online, the summer session involves manual therapy techniques taught in the classroom setting. This Master’s of Science program is thesis optional and comprehensive exams are required at the end of the second year.

Individuals applying for Graduate Assistantships in The Sports Medicine Department must be eligible for admittance to The Graduate School. Basic requirements include minimum GRE scores of 300 and an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 in your last 60 credit hours. For applications to The Graduate School, please click here.

Assistantships/Stipend Value

Graduate Assistants at The University of Alabama receive a Full Tuition Waiver (up to $22,500 for in-state and $36,500 for out-of-state) and a monthly stipend of $1,135. During their appointment, all continuing education, state and national athletic training association dues are covered by The Sports Medicine Department. All Staff and Graduate Assistants are covered under The University of Alabama's Professional Liability Insurance.

Expectations and Duties

Graduate Assistants are responsible for the prevention, immediate care and rehabilitation of injuries occurring to their assigned team over their two year appointment. Other responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Proficiency in Injury Zone, supervision of Athletic Training Students as a Clinical Instructor, opening duties and communication with parents, physicians, coaches, other medical personnel and The Director of Sports Medicine.

As a Sports Medicine Staff, we continue to strive for excellence in our field. Our Graduate Assistant's are given opportunity to be hands on with their respective team, continue their Athletic Training education with monthly Graduate Assistant Workshops consisting of evidence based research and clinical skills, and work towards a Master's Degree tailored to their interests in Sports Medicine.

After a two year Graduate Assistantship at The University of Alabama, we hope your communication, administrative skills and clinical practice have greatly improved. Ultimately, our goal is to prepare exceptional clinical athletic trainers who make a positive difference in The Sports Medicine community and continue to represent the standards of The University of Alabama!

To Apply:
Please send cover letter, resume and references via email:
jhoffer@ia.ua.edu

Or by mail:
1201 Coliseum Drive
Box 870393
Attn: Joe Hoffer MS, ATC/L
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487