Majors & Programs

Athletic Training, MS

Students stretching calf muscles
Overview

Gain an edge in the field

You want a career where you can make a tangible difference in the lives of athletes. We’ll help you gain the expertise and credentials you need to become a certified athletic trainer. Our Master of Science in athletic training degree is a two-year, entry-level residency program. You’ll learn from dedicated faculty who keep their skills sharp to teach you the latest techniques. You’ll also gain real-world experience through 16 weeks of immersive clinical rotations.

Evidence-based skills

Come work with advanced technology, including high-fidelity simulation mannequins, diagnostic ultrasound and the Anatomage Clinical Table. We'll help you build a well-rounded skill set by teaching you soft tissue techniques, movement assessments and clinical applications like suturing and oxygen delivery.

See curriculum

Requirements

Are courses face-to-face?
Yes.

What is the program format?
You'll be a part of a 14-student cohort.

What time of year does the program start?
Summer II term.

Is this program accredited?
Yes, by the CAATE.

Will I be prepared for my certification exam?
Yes, upon graduation you'll have the academic requirements needed.

Medical data and human body analysis image over outdoor sports field.

Apply to the athletic training master's program

The athletic training master's program is a two-part process. You'll apply to SFA's graduate school and to the academic program.

Program admission is rolling and opens Aug. 1. While there is no specific deadline date, capacity is limited to 14 students each cohort.

The departmental review process includes an online interview that will be scheduled after your applications are received.

To be eligible for consideration into the program, you must:

  • meet SFA's graduate school requirements
  • achieve an undergraduate 2.8 GPA or higher overall
    • or a 3.25 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework
  • and be one of the following:
    • in your final year of undergraduate work
    • holding a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
    • or have 95 or more semester hours of undergraduate work at SFA and be approved as an overlap student.

You'll apply to the program and supplemental materials through ATCAS portal.

Supplemental materials

  • evidence of at least 50 hours of observation or student athletic training experience supervised by a national- or state-credentialed athletic trainer
  • proof of completion for any required leveling coursework with a grade of C or better
  • a copy of your current First Aid/CPR/AED certification (even if it is expired)
  • medical documentation:
    • complete a medical history form
    • physical examination by a physician
    • and show proof of current immunizations (Tetanus, Hepatitis B, MMR, DTa, and Varicella).

You also will need to sign and submit the technical standards forms, which require endorsement by a physician.

Questions?

Get in touch! We're here to help.

Department of Allied Health Studies