What Is a Master's in Athletic Training Degree?
Students interested in helping provide health care to athletic and active individuals can consider earning a master's degree in athletic training. These master's programs help equip students with the knowledge and skills to help prevent and treat injuries in their patients. Students in these programs are also typically prepared to take professional certification exams in the field after graduation. Most commonly, students can earn a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) or a Master of Athletic Training (MAT) degree. Although some of these degree programs are available in online or hybrid formats, most of these programs are in-person and held on campus. Find out more about athletic training degree programs and careers here.
The Best Graduate Degree Programs in Athletic Training
| School | Tuition* | Acceptance Rate | Graduation Rate | Financial Aid % | Placement Services | Career Services | Accepts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brigham Young University-Provo | $7290 | 67% | 78% | 71% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 2 | University of Virginia-Main Campus | $19528 | 24% | 95% | 57% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 3 | University of Utah | $8396 | 62% | 70% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 4 | Texas A & M University-College Station | $10173 | 58% | 82% | 76% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 5 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | $12522 | 23% | 91% | 65% | No | Yes | AP Credits |
| 6 | University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | $19221 | 57% | 83% | 81% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 7 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | $24218 | 23% | 93% | 65% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 8 | University of Mary | $17694 | 74% | 60% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 9 | Ohio University-Main Campus | $9720 | 82% | 65% | 94% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 10 | Washington State University | $13095 | 76% | 60% | 89% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 11 | Thomas Jefferson University | $21978 | 66% | 70% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 12 | California State University-Long Beach | $8268 | 39% | 74% | 81% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 13 | University of Wisconsin-La Crosse | $10019 | 73% | 69% | 78% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 14 | University of Houston | $9372 | 65% | 61% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 15 | University of Northern Iowa | $10432 | 79% | 67% | 83% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 16 | University at Buffalo | $14130 | 61% | 75% | 84% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 17 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | $7138 | 83% | 50% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 18 | Indiana University-Bloomington | $10873 | 78% | 79% | 84% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 19 | Lock Haven University | $12519 | 95% | 54% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 20 | George Mason University | $15648 | 87% | 71% | 74% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 21 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | $12180 | 54% | 88% | 61% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 22 | James Madison University | $11976 | 77% | 84% | 62% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 23 | University of Iowa | $11666 | 83% | 72% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 24 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls | $9082 | 79% | 58% | 89% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 25 | University of Mississippi | $8828 | 88% | 66% | 86% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 26 | Tarleton State University | $7215 | 56% | 49% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 27 | Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania | $11866 | 84% | 60% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 28 | University of Delaware | $34956 | 71% | 81% | 88% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 29 | Southern Utah University | $8338 | 78% | 50% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 30 | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | $10270 | 82% | 48% | 97% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 31 | University of Connecticut | $19056 | 49% | 84% | 75% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 32 | University of Kentucky | $13404 | 96% | 66% | 94% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 33 | Minnesota State University-Mankato | $8474 | 63% | 50% | 88% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 34 | Iowa State University | $10990 | 92% | 74% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 35 | California State University-Fullerton | $8358 | 53% | 69% | 77% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 36 | University of Arkansas | $8841 | 77% | 66% | 76% | No | Yes | AP Credits |
| 37 | Plymouth State University | $10350 | 85% | 54% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 38 | Oregon State University | $14802 | 82% | 67% | 85% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 39 | West Chester University of Pennsylvania | $12340 | 75% | 77% | 81% | No | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit our ranking methodology page.
*Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Common Undergraduate Degrees for Athletic Training
Many master's programs in athletic training do not require students to hold a bachelor's degree in any particular area. However, it is common for these programs to have prerequisite courses that could likely be completed in science- or health-related majors. There are many athletic training-related bachelor's degree programs available to students, including programs in athletic training, exercise science, kinesiology, and more. Some of these programs can be completed online for flexibility, but many are on-campus programs and include hands-on learning.
Admissions Requirements for Athletic Training Master's Programs
The admissions process to master's degree programs in athletic training is fairly complex and can vary slightly from school to school. Applicants typically have to hold at least a bachelor's degree and may need to meet a minimum GPA requirement; however, many programs do not require the GRE. It is fairly common for these master's programs to require prerequisite courses in areas such as:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Physics
- Nutrition
- Exercise physiology
- Kinesiology/biomechanics
- Medical terminology
Depending on the program, students may also be required to have a certain amount of observation hours or athletic training exposure. This amount varies by program and typically has certain specifications, such as having so many hours in a high school or college setting. Other application materials could include recommendations, a personal essay, and resume. Some programs also require copies of current CPR/AED and First Aid certification to be submitted with the application, while others take these after admittance. After students are admitted, they may also need to complete a background check, submit their immunization records, and complete a bloodborne pathogen training.
How to Choose a Master's in Athletic Training Program
Choosing an athletic training program at the master's level usually comes down to personal needs and preferences. Students can begin their search by finding programs that provide clinical experiences and courses that closely align with their career goals. They can also search for programs that prepare them for a specific type of certification, such as the Certified Athletic Trainer credential (ATC). Other students may need to consider the logistics of a program, including the format, location, and time to degree completion. Some programs offer multiple cohorts throughout the year to try and fit students' schedules. The cost of a program, as well as financial aid options, can also be a deciding factor.
Master's in Athletic Training Program Accreditation
Another factor students should consider when choosing a master's degree in athletic training is program accreditation. Many postsecondary institutions hold regional accreditation from organizations that ensure the school's degree programs have met general academic standards put in place for quality control. However, some subject areas, including athletic training, have an additional level of accreditation available. In the case of athletic training, several master's programs have accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). This program-level accreditation means that programs have met additional academic standards that are specific to the field of athletic training, and therefore, may be preferred by employers.
Athletic Training Master's Degree Courses
Students in master's degree programs for athletic training may take as much as 65 credits of coursework to complete their degree. Usually, these programs take about 2 years to finish. The curriculum typically includes lab-based courses and lots of hands-on learning to equip students with the necessary diagnosis and treatment skills to work with active patients. Generally, the curriculum consists of core athletic trainer courses and concludes with extended hands-on clinical experiences. Some also include a final capstone course. Find out more about the athletic training curriculum below.
Athletic Training Foundational Courses
Hands-on learning and practical skills are taught throughout these programs, but students also take courses that help teach the foundational concepts, theories, and methods of the field. Many of these programs include multiple levels of courses in a given topic, such as an introductory course and an advanced course in the same subject. Coursework is science-heavy and often includes laboratory work for hands-on applications. Students typically learn how to examine, diagnose, and develop treatment plans for a wide range of illnesses and injuries related to movement and activity. Some examples of possible coursework for students include:
- Diagnostic procedure
- Prevention and health promotion
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation
- Pathology and clinical examination
- Anatomy
- Sport nutrition
- Orthopedic assessment
- Emergency care of athletic injuries
- Therapeutic interventions
- Research methods
Athletic Training Specialist & Elective Courses
Athletic training master's programs usually do not leave a lot of room for elective coursework. Although students could probably pay for additional courses of interest, these programs do not generally include electives as core coursework is generally set in all the major subjects and concepts of the field. Students may have some choice in some of the clinical experiences that they participate in, but typically. these courses and experiences still expose them to a variety of areas to help students know what area of athletic training they may want to do for a career.
Licensure & Certification in Athletic Training
Most states require athletic trainers to hold state licensure or certification in the field. Requirements vary by state, but many states use the standard certification exam that is offered by the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC). In addition to passing the exam, students usually need to adhere to the BOC standards of practice and hold a degree from a CAATE-accredited school. This leads to ATC certification, and in order to maintain the certification, students must fulfill continuing education (CE) requirements. Other related careers for graduates may have their own licensing or certification requirements. For instance, some graduates may pursue careers as sports coaches and need to meet state coaching requirements.
Clinical Experiences in Athletic Training Master's Programs
Most, if not all, master's degree programs in athletic training include clinical experiences. Usually, these multiple clinical rotations provide students the opportunity to gain hands-on, practical experience in various settings and working with a range of populations. These experiences help students apply their classroom knowledge to working with real patients. Students typically get the chance to work in different levels of sports play, from high school to professional, as well as with non-sport settings, such as industrial settings or the performing arts. These clinical experiences focus on teaching students skills in:
- Emergency care
- Preventative services
- Rehabilitation
- Clinical evaluation and diagnosis
- Wellness protection
- Therapeutic intervention
Post-Graduate Options After Master's in Athletic Training
Those wanting to continue their studies after earning a master's degree in athletic training have several degree options available. Students can continue studying athletic training by earning a Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) degree, or they can branch out into similar fields, such as earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Kinesiology with a concentration in athletic training. Some students may decide that they want to work in physical therapy. These students can pursue athletic training and physical therapy dual degree programs or earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree after their master's.
What Can I Do with an Athletic Training Master's Degree?
Most graduates with their master's degree in athletic training go on to pursue a career as an athletic trainer. Athletic trainers are different than personal trainers or an athletic trainer vs. a physical therapist usually in their specific job duties and the different settings that they may work in. For example, athletic trainers work in more types of settings and perform more complex job duties, such as diagnosing injuries, than personal trainers, but are not qualified to perform as much extensive rehabilitation care as a physical therapist. Athletic trainers can work in an array of settings, including:
- Sports medicine clinics
- Secondary schools
- Performing arts
- Military
- Colleges and universities
- Physician clinics
- Fitness centers
- Industrial settings
- Rehabilitation clinics
Job Outlook for a Master's in Athletic Training
In general, the job outlook for athletic training is very good. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for athletic trainers is 16% from 2019 to 2029. This equates to 5,200 new positions over the decade and is a much faster than average job outlook. This could be due to the growing awareness of the effects of sport-related injuries and the need for injury prevention and detection. The BLS did note that job prospects are the best for BOC-certified trainers and those who graduated from CAATE-accredited programs. Other related positions for graduates with their master's in athletic training also have positive job outlooks, such as sports coaches. The BLS stated that the job outlook for coaches and scouts from 2019 to 2029 is 12%, which is also much faster than average.
How to Become an Athletic Trainer
Athletic trainers have to have at least a bachelor's degree, but master's degree programs are fairly common and can often be preferred by employers. Usually, these degrees are specifically in athletic training and are accredited by the CAATE. The majority of states require athletic trainers to hold state licensure or certification in the field. Although requirements vary by state, these trainers usually need to pass an exam after meeting requirements.
Athletic trainers usually work with athletes and other active patients to help prevent and treat injuries and illnesses related to the bones and muscles. They are required to evaluate injuries, create rehabilitation programs for the injured, and maintain records on injuries and treatments. Athletic trainers also work extensively to prevent injury by creating programs to educate patients on injury prevention and utilizing tape, braces, and other preventative devices. Athletic trainers must be detail-oriented and compassionate as they work with patients and also need to possess strong decision-making skills. As of 2020, the BLS reported that the median annual salary for athletic trainers was $49,860.
How to Become a Coach
Knowledge and skills in athletic training can also be applied and prove beneficial for other related positions, such as working as a sports coach. Usually, coaches need to have at least a bachelor's degree, especially at the collegiate or professional levels. This degree can be in a range of areas, such as sports medicine, exercise and sports science, kinesiology, nutrition and fitness, and more. It is also common for coaches to have some personal experience playing the sport that they coach. Depending on the type of position, coaches often need to meet certification requirements. For instance, high school athletic associations may require education courses or certification to coach. It is also common for coaches to be certified in CPR and first aid. Many coaches advance their careers by working their way up from assistant or lower-level coaching jobs to ones with greater responsibilities.
Coaches are responsible for preparing athletes for competition through practices and training. They help players further develop their technique and may need to educate players on the rules of the game. They also create plays and call the shots during the sporting event. Coaches typically have strong decision making, leadership, and communication skills. Per the BLS, coaches and scouts made a median annual salary of $36,330, as of 2020.
Master's in Athletic Training Program Financial Aid & Scholarship Resources
The funding for one's graduate education can come from a variety of sources. Undergraduate and graduate students alike should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to see which loans and grants they qualify for from the federal and state government. Students can then begin comparing financial aid options available at different schools, such as tuition discounts, scholarships, and assistantships. Scholarships are also commonly available from outside organizations for an array of reasons, including financial need, interests and talents, and demographics. For athletic training master's students, there are several schools that provide subject-specific scholarships, including:
- Daemen College- Students in Daemen College's MSAT program can earn a Graduate Merit Scholarship for 30% off of tuition per credit hour once they are accepted into the program if they held a 2.7 or higher undergraduate GPA. The school also offers graduate alumni scholarships and an Americorps Matching Scholarship.
- Weber State University- All residents, non-residents, and international students admitted to Weber State University's MSAT program are considered for the Master of Science in Athletic Training Distinguished Student Scholar Award to earn $1,000 a year. Winners demonstrate academic excellence.
