Athletic Trainers are health professionals responsible for the prevention, recognition, evaluation, immediate and emergent care treatment, and rehabilitation/reconditioning of the physically active population. Athletic trainers perform under a physician’s direction and are typically employed by professional teams, colleges and universities, high schools, clinics and hospitals, industry, and other various settings.
The program of study is an entry-level MS program. It is intended for students seeking initial certification and registration or licensure as an athletic trainer. Students must successfully complete 70-72 graduate credits over 23 consecutive months, including clinical experiences, and other requirements to be awarded the Master of Science in Athletic Training degree.
Students interested in athletic training should be aware that enrollment is competitive and limited to a maximum 14 students per year. Fulfillment of minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Selection for admission is based on several elements including academic record, evidence of professional exploration, essay, recommendations, and the department reserves the right to request an interview. Students must have evidence of a completed bachelor's degree or gain entry through the MS in 5 (3+2) option as well as fulfillment of the health/prerequisite requirements upon matriculation.
General Information
The Entry-level Master's program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Students should be aware they must be a graduate of an accredited program in order to be eligible for the BOC, Inc. (Board of Certification, Inc.) certification exam. Students that complete the exam would also be eligible for licensure/registration in most states throughout the country.
The program consists of two academic years and two summers of study. The first summer session occurs at the beginning of the program and involves academic coursework. The second summer session consists of a practicum which must be secured by the student. Required clinical experiences are completed during the two academic years and second summer. These experiences frequently require commitments outside of the normal academic day and semester, including evenings and weekends, and, in some instances, necessitate personal transportation to clinical sites off campus. Students should keep these realities in mind when considering employment and other extracurricular obligations. They should also anticipate purchasing appropriate clothing for various clinical settings if they do not already have it.
Admissions
Admissions decisions are based on assessment of the student application and previously completed work.
Options for admissions are as follows:
Category #1: MS in 5 Option (AT-MS5): There will be a maximum of five slots in the program available to students through the MS in 5 option. Students enrolled at CSS may apply for the MS in 5 option during fall of their junior year. Transfer candidates must complete a minimum of 24 CSS credits prior to application. At the conclusion of the fourth year students will receive a BA in Health Sciences. Requirements for the BA in Health Sciences are as follows:
BA in Health Sciences, Athletic Training Concentration
BIO 1036 Cell Biology (2)
BIO 2110 Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
BIO 2120 Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
CHM 1020 Introductory Chemistry for Health Science Majors (4) or CHM 1110 General Chemistry (4)
EXP 3331 Exercise Physiology (4)
PSC 2001 Physics I (4) or EXP 3322 Biomechanics (4)
PSY 3331 Statistics (4)
PSY 1105 General Psychology (4)
A minimum 6 Credits from the following
ATR 3000 Introduction to Athletic Training (2)
ATR 3001 Service Learning in Athletic Training (2)
BIO 3020 Pathophysiology (4)
EXP 3321 Kinesiology (4)
EXP 3323 Sports Nutrition (4)
HSC 2203 Intro to US Healthcare System (4)
PSC 2002 Physics II (4)
PSY 2208 Lifespan Developmental Psycholoty (4)
PSY 3341 Introduction to Counseling (2)
PSY 3423 Abnormal Psychology (4)
In addition to the MS in AT application materials required for post-baccalaureate admissions, students must successfully complete the follwing to merit consideration:
Students admitted on this basis must be prepared to commit full time to study and clinical experiences. Students that are not admitted on this basis may apply as a Post Baccalaureate or Secondary Consideration student as outlined below.
Category #2: Post Baccalaureate Admissions: Students apply directly to the master’s program for matriculation following completion of an undergraduate degree. Requirements for admission must be completed accordingly.
Category #3: Secondary Consideration Admission: Students in category #2 may be considered if there are vacant slots and the candidate falls below minimum requirements in one or more categories but otherwise shows potential for satisfactory performance in the graduate program. Students must address any deficiencies on their essay.
Post Baccalaureate applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning January 15th while MS in 5 applications are due November 15th. Upon acceptance, entry into the program begins in June. Once in the program, students must be enrolled full time, and all courses and clinical experiences must be successfully completed in the required sequence. Alterations in progression may be considered on an individual basis.
Applications for the program may be obtained by contacting:
The College of St. Scholastica
Graduate Studies Office
Athletic Training Admissions
1200 Kenwood Ave.
Duluth, MN 55811-4199
Prerequisites: Students must present evidence of successful completion of the following St. Scholastica courses (or equivalencies subject to consideration by the St. Scholastica Athletic Training Admissions Committee).
Required
BIO 2110 Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
BIO 2120 Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
CHM 1020 Introductory Chemistry for Health Science Majors (4) or CHM 1110 General Chemistry I (4)
EXP 3331 Exercise Physiology (4)
PSC 2001 Physics I (4) or EXP 3322 Biomechanics (4)
PSY 3331 Statistics (4)
PSY (4) (1105 General, 2208 Developmental, or 3423 Abnormal)
NOTE: Equivalencies of 2110, 2120, 1020 and 2001 must include laboratory components
Recommended
BIO 3020 Pathophysiology (4)
HSC 2203 Intro to US Healthcare System (4)
PSC 2002 Physics II (4)
PSY 3341 Introduction to Counseling (2)
Post-Admission Requirements
Students must show evidence of the following prior to matriculation in the program. These requirements are not a consideration for admissions.
The following must be forwarded to the Amy Brugge, 233 Burns Wellness Commons by June 1:
The following must be completed prior to and/or during the orientation:
NOTE: individual external agencies (clinical placements) reserve the right to request additional information. In circumstances where that occurs, it is the responsibility of the student to provide it to the agency and incur any associated costs.
Admissions Checklist
Retention
In order to remain in good standing and continue to progress through didactic and clinical coursework, students must do the following:
Students that fail to meet one or more of the aforementioned criteria may be placed on probationary status. A student must resolve outstanding deficiencies and be restored to regular status within one semester. A student may not graduate when on probationary status.
Graduation
Expenses and Fees
Fees will be assessed for clinical and laboratory courses. Students can anticipate about $800 in fees and $1,500 for books in addition to other accrued expenses.
Course Sequence
Summer I: Pre-Clinical Phase (8 Credits)
• ATR 5004 Orientation to the Masters in Athletic Training (0)
• ATR 5005 Activity Injury Management and Terminology (1)
• ATR 5505 Kinesiology and Biomechanics (2)
• ATR 5510 Functional Anatomy (4)
• ATR 6000 Evidence Based Athletic Training: Introduction (1)
Year I: Clinical Phase I (16-17/15-16 credits)
• ATR 6201 Foundational Development in Athletic Training I (0-1)
• ATR 6002 Evaluation and Management: Lower Extremity and Lumbar Spine (3)
• ATR 6003 Foundations of Neuromuscular Function (2)
• ATR 6007 Clinical Applications of Movement Analysis (2)
• ATR 6008 Conditioning and Rehabilitation I (4)
• ATR 6009 Evaluation and Management: Emergent Conditions (3)
• ATR 6100 Beginning Clinical in Athletic Training (2)
• ATR 6202 Foundational Development in Athletic Training II (0-1)
• ATR 6501 Evaluation and Management: Upper Extremity, Trunk, and Head (3)
• ATR 6502 Therapeutic Modalities (2)
• ATR 6504 Manual and Mechanical Therapy (2)
• ATR 6507 Healthcare Documentation and Information Technology (2)
• ATR 6508 Conditioning and Rehabilitation II (4)
• ATR 6101 Intermediate Clinical in Athletic Training I (2)
Summer II: Clinical Phase II (3 Credits)
• ATR 6998 Athletic Training and Sports Medicine Practicum (0-3)
Year II: Clinical Phase III (14-16/13-16 credits)
• ATR 7200 Foundational Development in Athletic Training III (0-1)
• ATR 7002 Evidence Based Athletic Training: Research Proposal (2)
• ATR 7004 Evaluation and Management: General Medicine (3)
• ATR 7006 Leadership and Administration of Athletic Training (3)
• ATR 7007 Biopsychosocial Issues and Interventions (2)
• ATR 7008 Diagnostic and Orthopedic Applications (2)
• ATR 7100 Intermediate Clinical in Athletic Training II (2)
• ATR 7201 Foundational Development in Athletic Training IV (0-1)
• ATR 7500 Ergogenic Agents and Nutrition (2)
• ATR 7502 Pharmacological Agents (1)
• ATR 7504 Advanced Techniques in Athletic Training (1)
• ATR 7505 Healthcare Entrepreneurship (3)
• ATR 7508 Conditioning and Rehabilitation III (2)
• ATR 7101 Advanced Clinical in Athletic Training (2)
• ATR 7102 Medical Clinical in Athletic Training (1)
• ATR 7888 Master's Thesis in Athletic Training (1-3) Or
• ATR 7980 Capstone Project in Athletic Training (2)
• ATR 6900 Continuing Enrollment (1)
Minimum 70 Credits
Course Descriptions
ATR 5004 Orientation to the Master's in Athletic Training - 0 cr
An overview of graduate student life, the athletic training profession, and the athletic training program at CSS. Students will be oriented and spend some initial time in clinical placements. Students will complete steps to begin supervised clinical practice.
ATR 5005 Activity Injury Management and Terminology - 1 cr
An introduction to injury terminology, prevention and treatment strategies. Injury prevention principles and methods will be addressed including preventative taping, wrapping, and bracing; equipment selection and fitting; use of cryotherapy and thermotherapy; flexibility and warm-up; and assessment of inclement weather.
ATR 5505 Kinesiology and Biomechanics-2 cr
Provides students with the foundational knowledge for understanding normal human movement. Emphasis is placed on biomechanics, joint structure and function, and muscle activity throughout the human body in concert with topics covered in human anatomy. Students explore the interaction of various joints and movement through common activities of daily living.
ATR 5510 Functional Anatomy-4 cr
An advanced, regional, musculoskeletal anatomy course that emphasizes the study of functional relationships among musculature, nervous tissue, vascular, and skeletal components for the extremities and axial skeleton. Cadaver dissection laboratory experience is used to enhance understanding of three-dimensional anatomical relationships for specific body regions
ATR 6000 Evidence Based Athletic Training: Introduction-1 cr
An introduction to research in the athletic training profession to provide a foundation for evidence based practice. The student will learn to access electronic databases; differentiate between research methodologies, and begin to critically analyze pertinent literature. Students will be introduced to epidemiologic principles and measures as well as common patient outcome measures.
ATR 6002 Evaluation and Management: Lower Extremity and Lumbar Spine-3 cr
An in-depth study of injuries to the lower extremity and lumbar spine including mechanism/etiology, signs, symptoms, treatment, and management will be undertaken. Evaluation procedures will be presented, practiced, and evaluated. History, inspection/observation, palpation, assessment of motion, special testing, gait analysis, posture analysis, and functional assessment will be included.
ATR 6003 Foundations of Neuromuscular Function-2 cr
A study of neuroanatomical structures and functions, neuropathology underlying specific clinical conditions, and theories supporting clinical treatment. Central and peripheral nervous systems are addressed at macro and micro levels. Specific focus will be on proprioception, neuromuscular, sensory, and cranial nerve function.
ATR 6007 Clinical Applications of Movement Analysis-2 cr
Will explore injury prevention and risk management among active populations, as well as the assessment of musculoskeletal injuries from a biomechanical perspective. Students will investigate how physics principles can be applied to quantitatively and qualitatively assess movement of the human body. Biomechanical analysis will then be used to identify, explain, and address pathomechanics that result in decreased athletic performance or injury.
ATR 6008 Conditioning and Rehabilitation I - 4 cr
An introduction to the theory and science underlying strength training, conditioning, and rehabilitation for physically active individuals with a focus on training and conditioning. Elements including phase of training; strength, and conditioning; and activity requirements will be stressed. Systems (cardiovascular, musculoskeletal) and bodily regions (knee, ankle, etc.) will be integrated. Lab activities will focus on strength training, conditioning, and assessment of associated variables.
ATR 6009 Evaluation and Management: Emergent Conditions - 3 cr
An in depth study of medical emergencies and acute conditions in physical activity settings. Students will become prepared to respond to situations necessitating cardiopulmonary resuscitation, automated external defibrillation, and other life saving techniques. Students will implement treatment algorithms, patient stabilization, and transport methods.
ATR 6100 Beginning Clinical in Athletic Training-2 cr
The first of two clinical experiences for first-year athletic training students. Students will complete competencies, proficiencies, and clinical experiences commensurate with their level in the program under an assigned clinical instructor. Injury prevention will be the predominate focus of this experience.
ATR 6101 Intermediate Clinical in Athletic Training I-2 cr
The second of two clinical experiences for first-year athletic training students. Students will complete competencies, proficiencies, and clinical experiences commensurate with their level in the program under an assigned clinical instructor. Lower extremity injury evaluation and athletic conditioning techniques will be the primary focus.
ATR 6201 Foundational Development in Athletic Training I - 0-1 cr
First in a four course series of activities designed to facilitate growth in professional practice. The course will include interaction with professionals presenting on a variety of topics and a multi-faceted developmental assessment of progression in identified foundational development areas. Students will be expected to exhibit beginning level behaviors in all areas for progression to the next level.
ATR 6202 Foundational Development in Athletic Training II - 0-1 cr
Second in a four course series of activities designed to facilitate growth in professional practice. The course will include interaction with professionals presenting on a variety of topics and a multi-faceted developmental assessment of progression in identified foundational development areas. Students will be expected to exhibit six intermediate level behaviors for progression to the next level.
Prerequisite: ATR 6201
ATR 6501 Evaluation and Management: Upper Extremity, Trunk, and Head-3 cr
An in-depth study of injuries to the upper extremity, trunk, and head/c-spine including mechanism/etiology, signs, symptoms, treatment, and management will be undertaken. Evaluation procedures will be presented, reviewed, practiced, and evaluated. Students will be expected to successfully conduct a history, inspection/observation, palpation, assessment of motion, special testing, postural analysis, and functional assessment of the upper extremity, trunk, and head.
ATR 6502 Therapeutic Modalities-2 cr
A review of the underlying chemistry and physics followed by in-depth study of physiological effects, indications, contraindications, and techniques of application necessary to select and utilize common therapeutic modalities in the allied health care setting. Appropriate patient position and modality set-up/application for optimal therapeutic effect will be stressed.
ATR 6504 Mechanical and Manual Therapy Techniques-2 cr
Theory, clinical and scientific rationale, and application of mechanical and manual therapy techniques to address dysfunction in the physically active population. Application of manual and mechanical therapy skills in clinical practice will be emphasized heavily with consideration for indications and contraindications.
ATR 6507 Healthcare Documentation and Information Technology - 2 cr
A study of contemporary healthcare documentation procedures used in athletic training clinical settings. The student will be prepared to write healthcare notes and utilize appropriate technology to facilitate recordkeeping for patient care, legal requirements, and reimbursement purposes. Students will learn use of Health Information Technologies for enhancing clinical practice
ATR 6508 Conditioning and Rehabilitation II - 4 cr
An introduction to the theory and science underlying strength training, conditioning, and rehabilitation for physically active individuals with a focus on rehabilitation. Elements including phase of rehabilitation, restoration of function, and activity requirements will be stressed. Systems (cardiovascular, musculoskeletal) and bodily regions (knee, ankle, etc.) will be integrated. Lab activities focused on rehabilitation techniques and assessment of parameters will be included
ATR 6900 Continuing Enrollment-0 cr
Students with incomplete work at any level of the program will have to sign up for this course and pay a fee equivalent to a one credit course for the faculty's responsibilities for the course.
ATR 6998 Athletic Training and Sports Medicine Practicum-1-4 cr
This practicum is intended to give students a concentrated exposure to a setting of choice. Students are responsible for securing their placement in conjunction with program faculty. The experience will be customized to the needs and professional goals of the student. One pre-season exposure consisting of a minimum of one credit must be attained.
ATR 7002 Evidence Based Practice in Athletic Training: Research Proposal-2 cr
A research course resulting in a thesis proposal utilizing AMA (American Medical Association) guidelines. The student will be required to conceive a topic appropriate for study, conduct a thorough literature review, and devise appropriate methodology to answer the question(s) of interest. The topic of the research proposal will lead to enhanced practice.
ATR 7004 Evaluation and Management: General Medicine-3 cr
A study of pathology and common disorders of the organ systems. Focus is on etiology, signs, symptoms, evaluation, and treatment of such disorders. Students will be exposed to the appropriate knowledge base and skills needed to perform basic assessments. The focus will be on differential diagnosis and making appropriate referral decisions to other healthcare providers as warranted. Screening and determination of a safe physical condition for activity will also be considered.
ATR 7006 Leadership and Administration of Athletic Training - 3 cr
An introduction to administrative and professional practices concerning operations and personnel as they apply specifically to the athletic training setting. Additional study of topics includes leadership, development of policies/procedures, employment issues, facility design and development, and legal concerns. The course will culminate in creation of an operations binder to be combined with the project produced in ATR 7505.
ATR 7007 Biopsychosocial Interventions - 2 cr
An introduction to psychosocial issues impacting the physically active . The interaction between mind and body will be the primary focus. The student will identify the appropriate role of the athletic trainer and when circumstances warrant referral to other healthcare/mental health providers.
ATR 7008 Diagnostic and Orthopedic Applications - 2 cr
An overview of common diagnostic, office sports medical, and surgical preparation procedures. These procedures are typically found in clinical settings and are used to supplement traditional practices by athletic trainers. The knowledge base and skills addressed encompass those performed by orthopedic and surgical technicians.
ATR 7100 Intermediate Clinical in Athletic Training II-2 cr
The first of two clinical experiences for second-year athletic training students. Students will complete competencies, proficiencies, and clinical experiences commensurate with their level in the program under an assigned clinical instructor. Upper extremity injury evaluation, emergency care, therapeutic modalities, manual therapy, and rehabilitation techniques will be the primary focus.
Third in a four course series of activities designed to facilitate growth in professional practice. The course will include interaction with professionals presenting on a variety of topics and a multi-faceted developmental assessment of progression in identified foundational development areas. Students will be expected to exhibit intermediate level behaviors in all areas for progression to the next level.
ATR 7101 Advanced Clinical in Athletic Training-2 cr
The second of two clinical experiences for second-year athletic training students. Students will complete competencies, proficiencies, and clinical experiences commensurate with their level in the program under an assigned clinical instructor. General medical assessment and integration of all athletic training skills previously learned within curriculum will be the focus.
ATR 7102 Medical Clinical in Athletic Training-1 cr
A clinical experience for athletic training students in a general medical setting. Students will be assigned to a clinical instructor (MD, DO, NP, PA) within a general medical setting instead of a traditional athletic training setting to gain further experience with conditions of the derma, head, face, thorax and abdomen. Assessment techniques and differential diagnosis will be stressed.
ATR 7200 Foundational Development in Athletic Training III - 0-1 cr
Prerequisite: ATR 6201
ATR 7200 Foundational Development in Athletic Training III- 0-1 cr
Third in a four course series of activities designed to facilitate growth in professional practice. The course will include interaction with professionals presenting on a variety of topics and a multi-faceted developmental assessment of progression in identified foundational development areas. Students will be expected to exhibit intermediate level behaviors in all areas for progression to the next level.
Prerequisite: ATR 6202
ATR 7201 Foundational Development in Athletic Training IV- 0-1 cr
Last in a four course series of activities designed to facilitate growth in professional practice. The course will include interaction with professionals presenting on a variety of topics and a multi-faceted developmental assessment of progression in identified foundational development areas. Students will be expected to exhibit entry level behaviors in all areas to graduate.
Prerequisite: ATR 7200
ATR 7500 Ergogenic Agents and Nutrition-2 cr
An overview of ergogenic substances and nutritional practices and their impact on physically active populations. The physiological basis of intake and dietary manipulation will be the primary focus. Impact on health and performance will be addressed.
ATR 7502 Pharmacological Agents-2 cr
An overview of legal and illegal substances designed to alter body chemistry, promote recovery and healing. Indications, contraindications, and effects will be explored. Prescription, over-the-counter, and commonly abused substances will be the focus of study.
ATR 7504 Advanced Techniques in Athletic Training - 1 cr
An introduction to advanced treatment approaches. Students will review appropriate theories and practice skills and techniques related to one or more of the athletic training practice domains. Topic areas will be offered on a rotating basis and typically include an emphasis on either evaluation, rehabilitation, or therapeutic modalities.
ATR 7505 Healthcare Entrepreneurship - 3 cr
An introduction to the US healthcare system and principles of demonstrating value in healthcare. Students will learn foundational principles, financial operations, and strategies to promote the provision of healthcare services. The course will culminate in students devising a business plan for a mock organization.
ATR 7508 Conditioning and Rehabilitation III - 2 cr
Culminating course in Conditioning and Rehabilitation. Elements of common orthopedic surgical procedures and implications for rehabilitation will be addressed. Periodization of training encompassing conditioning, rehabilitation, and post surgical rehabilitation phases will be outlined. Students will develop a final comprehensive program encompassing all phases.
ATR 7888 Master's Thesis in Athletic Training-3 cr
The student will prepare a complete thesis project. The student will collect data then analyze and formulate data supported conclusions. They will then produce a manuscript and meet college requirements for a thesis. Students have the option of selecting 7888 or 7980. This option is best suited for those electing to focus on doctoral studies and a career as a researcher. Prerequisites: ATR 7002 and a completed, approved IRB application.
ATR 7980 Capstone Project in Athletic Training-2 cr
The student will complete a culminating evidence based project related to the field of athletic training. Options will include, but are not limited to, case studies, literature review, group research project, etc. Students have the option of selecting 7888 or 7980. This option is best suited for those electing to focus on a career in clinical practice.
