Master of Science in Athletic Training(MSAT)
Lebanon, Illinois, United States , United States
Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT)
McKendree University
Athletic Training
Program Overview: Master of Science in Athletic Training at McKendree University
The Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) at McKendree University is a professional post-baccalaureate program designed for students who want to enter the profession of athletic training. The 57-credit-hour curriculum is built around the 8th edition of the Board of Certification (BOC) practice analysis, NATA Executive Council for Education standards, and CAATE curriculum requirements. Students enter the program as a cohort and progress through six sequential semesters, including two 8-week summer sessions and four 16-week sessions.
McKendree University, founded in 1828 as the first institution of higher education in Illinois, is located in Lebanon, Illinois, just 30 minutes from St. Louis. The MSAT program combines rigorous academic coursework with diverse clinical experiences across settings including NCAA Division II athletics, high school sports, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, primary care offices, and occupational and industrial environments.
This residency-based program offers courses in both face-to-face and online formats, providing flexibility while maintaining hands-on clinical training. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in athletic training and are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) credentialing examination, which is required for professional licensure in most states.
Key Program Highlights
- CAATE-accredited program with a 57-credit-hour curriculum aligned to the latest BOC practice analysis and national standards
- Personalized attention with a 1:12 classroom ratio and 1:2 clinical preceptor-to-student ratio, often one-on-one
- Five semesters of clinical rotations including direct contact with team physicians and diverse patient populations
- Graduates employed in professional sports, military, healthcare, and educational settings across the country
Curriculum and Course Modules
The MSAT curriculum at McKendree University integrates didactic instruction with supervised clinical coursework sequenced to maximize student learning. Courses are guided by the BOC practice analysis, NATA Executive Council for Education, and CAATE accreditation standards, ensuring graduates are prepared for entry-level athletic training practice across diverse healthcare settings.
Foundations of Evidence-Based Practice
3 CreditsIntroduces students to the principles of evidence-based practice in athletic training, including research methodology, critical appraisal of literature, and application of evidence to clinical decision-making.
Diagnostics, Splinting, and Bracing
3 CreditsCovers diagnostic techniques and the application of splinting and bracing for musculoskeletal injuries, emphasizing proper assessment, fitting, and patient education for orthopedic support devices.
Evaluation and Assessment of Orthopedic Injuries I
3 CreditsProvides foundational knowledge in evaluating and assessing orthopedic injuries of the upper and lower extremities, focusing on clinical examination techniques, differential diagnosis, and documentation.
Evaluation and Assessment of Orthopedic Injuries II
3 CreditsBuilds upon Orthopedic Injuries I with advanced assessment of complex musculoskeletal conditions, including spine, thorax, and multi-joint pathologies, with emphasis on clinical reasoning and referral decisions.
Evaluation and Assessment of General Medical Conditions
3 CreditsFocuses on the recognition, evaluation, and management of general medical conditions commonly encountered in athletic training, including cardiovascular, neurological, dermatological, and systemic conditions.
Clinical Practicum in Athletic Training
Variable CreditsProvides supervised clinical experiences across diverse settings including Division II athletics, high school sports, outpatient rehabilitation, primary care, and occupational health, allowing students to demonstrate clinical proficiencies through direct patient care.
Elective and Specialized Coursework
Admission Requirements
McKendree University admits students who demonstrate the potential to complete graduate-level work. Applicants are evaluated on an individual basis, and the MSAT program admits students once a year for the summer semester cohort. All applications and inquiries should be directed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeBachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education
- Minimum GPA3.0 on a 4.0 scale in undergraduate studies
- Prerequisite CoursesGrade of C or higher in required prerequisites including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy and Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Psychology, Statistics, Medical Terminology, Nutrition, and Principles of Athletic Training
- Personal EssayA two-to-three-page essay identifying personal characteristics suited for athletic training practice, primary career goals, and connection to current issues in the profession
- InterviewQualified applicants will be interviewed by the Athletic Training Selection Committee
Language Requirements
- TOEFLRequired for international applicants; contact Uni4Edu for minimum score requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for accepted score thresholds
- English ProficiencyAll coursework and clinical instruction is conducted in English; proficiency is required for patient communication and documentation
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
McKendree University offers graduate financial aid opportunities to help students fund their MSAT studies. The university is committed to making graduate education accessible and is consistently recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the Midwest's best value schools. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on available funding options.
Graduate Financial Aid
McKendree University provides graduate financial aid opportunities for MSAT students, including federal loan programs and institutional assistance to help offset the cost of attendance.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for MSAT Graduates
Graduates of the McKendree University MSAT program are prepared for entry-level athletic training positions across a wide range of professional settings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects athletic training employment to grow significantly over the next decade, and McKendree alumni have established careers in professional sports, healthcare, education, military, and industrial settings nationwide.
Potential Career Roles
Where McKendree Graduates Work
Rankings and Recognition
McKendree University, founded in 1828 as Illinois' first institution of higher education, is consistently recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, personalized instruction, and student outcomes. The university holds regional and national recognition from U.S. News and World Report and is designated as a U.S. College of Distinction. The MSAT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Universities Midwest | U.S. News & World Report | #101 of 161 |
| Online Bachelor's Programs (Private Institutions) | U.S. News & World Report | Top 33% |
| Online Master's in Nursing | U.S. News & World Report | #8 of 42 Private Programs |
| Best Colleges for Veterans | U.S. News & World Report | Nationally Ranked |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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