The ATU Credentialing Path

Download PDF: ATU Credentialing Path

OPTION 1. Looking for the perfect continuing education class... and nothing more?
Aquatic Therapy University offers over 30 pre-approved classes each year --  on ATU's main campus in Minneapolis, MN and across the globe. These classes span the spectrum: from Pool Therapy for the Female... to Evidence Based Pediatrics...to Justifiable Aquatics for the Total Hip & Knee.

• ATC: ATU is a nationally recognized (BOCA) CE provider for the athletic trainer.
  
  
• PT/ OT: ATU classes always meet the host state's standards for physical therapy (PT) and (OT) occupational therapy CE.
  
  
• SLP/ TRS/ KT/MT: ATU courses have been accepted for CE credit through ASHA, AKTA, ATRA, NCBTMB and other professional organizations. Request information for your specific situation.
  

View the 2013 schedule here. Or bring ATU classes (polyclinics) to your city.

OPTION 2. Seeking advanced recognition?
ATU offers an 84-hour progression of post-graduate studies (akin to "majoring" in aquatic therapy through continuing education) that culminates in ATU credentials. ATU offers two types of credentials: an Aquaticist℠ track for PT/OT professionals and a Professional track for all other health care providers. All coursework must be completed in a 5 year period.

Aquaticist℠ (Aq)
Available to PT/PTA/OT/OTAs. The ATU Aquaticist℠ (Aq) designation will be granted to physical and occupational therapy professionals who earn a minimum of 84 hours in a specific ATU Certificate Program. To be Aquaticist℠ recognized, therapists must provide verification of their diploma and state license as a therapist prior to using designation.

We also offer an interim Aquaticist-In-Training℠(AIT) title that can be earned after just 36 ATU credits. As this credential is designed for those therapists who have yet to declare a specialty, these classes can be taken in any order or track. NOTE: verification of professional standing is still required for the AIT credential.

Aquatic Therapy Professional (ATP)
Available to all recognized health care providers. The ATU Aquatic Therapy Professional (ATP) designation will be granted to all state- or nationally-recognized providers who earn a minimum of 84 hours in a specific ATU Certificate Program. Students must submit verification of a valid license, certification or registration as a health care provider prior to using designation.

Additionally, we offer an Aquatic Therapy Associate (ATA) designation. This interim title allows you to be recognized after just 36 ATU credits.

Health care providers may seek their advanced recognition though ATU by following one of these Specialty Tracks.

• Pediatric

• Musculoskeletal

• Geriatric

• Sports Medicine

Providers may also pursue a General Studies track. 

*Note: As of 2012, the Neuro track content has been divided and integrated into the Pediatric and Geriatric tracks.

Post-Aquaticist℠ Titles

For those that wish to continue on, we offer three more tiers of recognition: Aquaticist℠ Instructor (AqI), Master Aquaticist℠ (AqM) and Aquaticist℠ Fellow (AqF). One builds upon the others and require completion of our I Want to Teach! curriculum, five years proven pool experience and a research thesis, respectively.

Download PDF: ATU Credentialing Path