Athletic Training (MAT)

Affiliation: School of Health Sciences & Education

The graduate program in Athletic Training is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). The CAATE has been offering the entry-level Master of Athletic Training degree since 2006. Accreditation standards of athletic training degrees were first developed in 1993. For the best preparation for graduate work in athletic training, the prerequisite courses are required as foundation work. Building on this background, the graduate program provides the specialized coursework and practicum experiences that prepare and qualify successful candidates for careers in athletic training.

The main components of the program include: 1) advanced coursework in the assessment and treatment of injuries; 2) advanced clinical practicum experiences with a diverse athletic and active population; 3) a sequence of major projects that provide opportunity for students to demonstrate knowledge and expertise through both oral and written presentation; and 4) professional activities that promote athletic training. The Truman graduate program in Athletic Training is characterized by high academic and professional standards, close collaboration between students and faculty, and professional preparation.

Students who wish to pursue graduate study in athletic training should contact the Program Director in Athletic Training for information. Students who are interested in the graduate program of study are encouraged to obtain information early, so that appropriate plans can be made to meet the prerequisites.

MISSION STATEMENT

It is the mission of Truman State University entry-level Athletic Training Master’s program to develop critically thinking athletic training students, who can meet the diverse demands of and provide service to the profession.

GOAL

It is the goal of the MAT program to prepare the athletic training students for the Board of Certification exam through progressive clinical experiences. It is the goal of the MAT program to provide the athletic training students with the skills necessary to perform the duties of a certified athletic trainer.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAM

1. To prepare students for the Board of Certification Exam.
2. To provide students, through a program of progressive clinical experiences, the skills necessary to perform the duties of a certified athletic trainer.
3. To furnish students with the clinical and academic skills to work in the variety of venues employing certified athletic trainers.
4. To prepare students who are proficient in all content areas designated by the National Athletic Trainers Association competencies. The candidate performs the clinical proficiencies designated by the National Athletic Trainers Association competencies essential to athletic training at a professional level.
5. To continue to determine and assess the effectiveness of athletic training course content and clinical experiences.
6. To understand the subject matter and have learning experiences that make these aspects of subject matter meaningful to him/her.
7. To ensure that all program graduates meet the rigorous requirements for obtaining eligibility for the Board of Certification exam.
8. To provide academic and clinical experiences, in accordance with program accreditation standards, that prepare graduates to provide comprehensive athletic training program services.
9. To model and promote ethical principles and procedures in the conduct of clinical practice, academic achievement, and research.
10. To model and promote professional values which include a respect for diversity and the importance of lifelong learning.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

1. The student must be recommended for admission to graduate study by the program’s Admission Committee and Dean.
2. Program Criteria are:
   • Minimum GPA score of 3.0 overall or 3.0 GPA on the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate work
   • Earn a grade of a “C” or better for the following undergraduate courses and any associated course labs:
     • Statistics
     • General Psychology 
     • Human Physiology *
     • Human Anatomy *
     • Biology
     • Chemistry
     • Physics
     • Nutrition
   • Signed observation hours (40) under direct supervision of certified athletic trainer
   • CPR card - must hold current professional rescuer certification upon entry and upload documentation
   • A completed application - including associated essays/personal statement and resume
   • Upload 3 letters of recommendation (none from immediate family, Truman Department Chair, or Truman Program Director
3. No student is permitted to transfer graduate level coursework toward the degree in athletic training in which a grade lower than a “C” was achieved.

* Anatomy and Physiology I and Anatomy and Physiology II may substitute.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Before graduation, the student desiring an MAT degree must complete the following:

1. Athletic Training curriculum.
2. The academic and practicum experience requirements.
3. A master’s research project.
4. Present research project at the university level.
5. Register for the Board of Certification exam.
6. Pass all competencies distinguished by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education.
7. The specified requirements of the Office of Graduate Studies pertaining to grade point average, prerequisite requirements, residence, course number, time limitations, repeat courses, and examinations.

CLINICAL HOUR REQUIREMENT

Students are required to complete a minimum of 100 clock hours under the supervision of a certified athletic trainer as a component of each Athletic Training Clinical course. These hours must be documented and verified on the program approved system by the certified athletic trainer or preceptor.

SPECIAL FACILITIES AND SERVICES

All of the facilities are Truman State University approved clinical sites and meet CAATE accreditation standards. All student rotations are provided under the supervision of professionals who are licensed and maintain current and “good” standing professional certification. Students are supervised by preceptors at all times during clinical hours.

FIELD EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT

AT 649G - Athletic Training Field Experience  is a course designed for the student to gain a full immersion athletic training experience in a minimum of four consecutive weeks and 30 hours and under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer and preceptor of the Truman MAT program. The selected site must meet the Truman State University MAT program requirements to become an affiliated site.