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Master of Science

Athletic Training

athletic training students observing instructorThe Department of Clinical & Applied Movement Sciences (CAMS) offers a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT). This degree program offers a challenging pathway for post-baccalaureate students to pursue a career in the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and conditions among patients and athletes. The MSAT program will prepare students for the Board of Certification Examination to become a Certified Athletic Trainer. The UNF MSAT program provides students the opportunity to gain valuable clinical experience in a variety of settings, including secondary school, college/university, professional, clinic, and industrial. 

In 2018, the Professional Athletic Training Program was awarded accreditation through 2028-2029 from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) by meeting all Standards for Professional Athletic Training Education.

Association for Athletic Training Education Founding Member logo
CAATE Accredited Program logo

Application Deadlines

Summer Term . . . . . . . . April 1

Admits for the summer term only. Courses will begin in the summer B term which is typically in June. 

 

Admission Requirements

For admission requirements and information on how to apply, please visit

The UNF Graduate School's Website

  • Program Mission, Goals, and Objectives

    Mission

    The mission of the UNF Athletic Training Program is to prepare our students for entry-level clinical practice through interdisciplinary coursework and diverse clinical education experiences. The UNF Athletic Training graduate will be a competent, caring allied health care professional capable of using evidence-based practice and the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality patient care. The Athletic Training Program seeks to inspire students to be lifelong learners and advocates for the profession.

    Program Goals and Outcomes:

    1. Provide an opportunity for students to develop skills in the current BOC domains of clinical practice.
      • Students will be satisfied with professional preparation received in each domain and content areas related to the domains.
      • Students will be able to effectively apply knowledge in the clinical setting in each content area related to the domains.
      • Students will perform at or above the national average on each domain assessed on the BOC exam.
       
    2. Provide students with a variety of educational experiences in the classroom and through clinical education that promote the use of effective communication skills, professional and ethical behavior, professional growth, and evidence-based practice.
      • Students will be confident in their ability to communicate effectively, display professional and ethical behavior, and implement evidence-based practice.
      • Students will receive satisfactory ratings for communications skills, display of professional and ethical behavior, and implementation of evidence-based practice in the clinical setting.
      • Students will demonstrate an understanding of professional behaviors and relate these to their professional growth as a clinician.
       
    3. Prepare students for success as an allied health care professional in the field of athletic training by:
      1. Providing opportunities for clinical education experiences in a variety of settings under the supervision of preceptors who are committed to teaching and learning.
        • Students will be satisfied with their clinical education opportunities and mentorship by Preceptors.
        • Clinical education sites and Preceptors will provide a supportive and stimulating learning environment for students.
         
      2. Providing a challenging curriculum, which is complemented by clinical education experiences that prepare students for autonomous practice.
        • Students will be confident in their athletic training knowledge and skills and feel prepared for employment as an athletic trainer.
        • BOC exam first time pass rates will be above the national average.
        • Students will demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to provide quality patient care.
  • Admission Requirements

    Admission Requirements

    Students with a bachelor's degree in any academic area may be considered for admission to the Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT). Completed applications will be evaluated using a rolling admissions process and will conclude no later than April 1st. Admitted students will begin classes during the Summer B semester.

    The admissions requirements are as follows:

    1. A bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by an acceptable institutional accreditor.
    2. A minimum of a 3.0 overall GPA in undergraduate coursework. Students must complete all prerequisite courses prior to successfully matriculating through the MSAT. Failure to submit final transcripts by June 30th will result in dismissal from the MSAT.
    3. GRE is recommended but not required. GRE Institution Code: 5490
    4. Meet the technical standards for admission (see Technical Standards).
    5. 50 hours of observational experience under the supervision of a Certified Athletic Trainer (UNF Athletic Training Observation Form).
    6. Three (3) letters of recommendation. One letter of recommendation must be from an Athletic Trainer who supervised you during your observational experience.
    7. Personal statement describing prior experiences, accomplishments, and career goals.
    8. Interview (on campus preferred) with the UNF Athletic Training Faculty and Preceptors.

    Prerequisite Courses (35 semester credit hours) Effective Fall 2021

    Applicants must demonstrate completion with a minimum grade of “C” at the undergraduate or graduate levels in each of the subject areas listed below. Any substitutions to the courses listed below are made at the time of evaluation for admission into the MSAT Program. 

     

    • Anatomy and Physiology (2 semesters with labs) 
      • BSC2085c Human Anatomy and Physiology I with lab (4 Credits) 
      • BSC2086c Human Anatomy and Physiology II with lab (4 Credits) 
       
    •  Physics with lab 
      • PHY1028/1028L Introduction to Physics with lab (3 Credits) 
       
    • Chemistry with lab 
      •  CHM2045/2045L General Chemistry with lab (4 credits)
       
    • Biology with lab BSC1010c 
      • General Biology I with lab (4 Credits)
       
    • Statistics 
      •  STA2014 or 2023 Elementary Statistics for Health and Social Sciences (3 Credits) 
       
    • Nutrition 
      •  HUN2201 Basic Principles of Human Nutrition (3 Credits) 
       
    • Psychology 
      •  PSY2012 Introduction to Psychology (3 Credits) 
       
    •  Biomechanics or Kinesiology 
      •  PET3312C Biomechanics (3 credits) or PET3310 Kinesiology (3 Credits) 
       
    •  Exercise Physiology 
      •  HSC4612 Exercise Physiology for Health Science (3 Credits)

    How to Apply

    Applicants should follow each of the steps below:

    1. Application submitted through ATCAS ($90 for first application, $55 for each additional program).
    2. Application and admission to UNF ($30 Non-refundable application fee). Complete the UNF online application for graduate school admission. If you are a current UNF student you can complete the Express Application
    3. Submit hardcopy, official, sealed transcripts from all institutions at which you were ever enrolled (this includes AP, CLEP, IB, dual enrollment, transient enrollment, military, and foreign transcripts) to the Graduate School at the following address: University of North Florida, Attn: Graduate School, 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224.

    *Applicants who do not complete both UNF Graduate School and ATCAS applications will be disqualified. You are required to submit all transcripts to BOTH locations as the systems are completely separate.

    *The receipt of materials submitted to the UNF Graduate School may be confirmed online in the myWings student portal or with the Graduate School at (904) 620-1360.

  • Course Sequence

    First Year

    Summer (7 credit hours)

    ATR 5126C: Gross Anatomy for Athletic Trainers (4)

    This course provides an in depth examination of human anatomy, with an emphasis on musculoskeletal anatomy, through the use of human cadaveric specimens.

    ATR 5105C: Foundations in Athletic Training (3)

    Overview course to provide students with foundational information and skills necessary in the clinical practice of Athletic Training. Topics include acute care, risk management, orthopedic taping and bracing, and equipment fitting. Students will also learn the roles and responsibilities of a Certified Athletic Trainer and the sports medicine team.

    Fall (12 credit hours)

    ATR 5217C: Orthopedic Assessment and Diagnosis I (3)

    The study and practice of techniques used when assessing orthopedic and athletic-related injuries to the lower extremity and lumbar spine. The student will integrate knowledge of anatomical structures, biomechanics, and evaluative techniques to form a basis for an initial treatment plan.

    ATR 5306C: Therapeutic Interventions I (3)

    A study of current theory and operation of therapeutic modalities as they relate to the healing process and are used in the treatment of injuries in a physically active population. This course includes basic physics, physiological effects, indications, and contraindications for therapeutic modalities commonly utilized in the Athletic Training/sports medicine setting.

    ATR 5119C: Emergency Management of Athletic Trauma (3)

    This course presents the advanced study and application of emergency management techniques in dealing with trauma resulting from injuries and illnesses suffered by a physically active population.

    ATR 5815C: Clinical Integration I (3)

    An introductory experience in an Athletic Training/sports medicine setting with follow-up seminars. Students will develop competence in foundational Athletic Training skills while providing care to physically active individuals under the direct supervision of a Certified Athletic Trainer. Additional clinical education experiences may be provided under the direct supervision of other licensed health care providers.

    Spring (12 credit hours)

    ATR 5218C: Orthopedic Assessment and Diagnosis II (3)

    The study and practice of techniques used when assessing orthopedic and athletic-related injuries to the upper extremity, head, and cervical/thoracic spine. The student will integrate knowledge of anatomical structures, biomechanics, and evaluative techniques to form a basis for an initial treatment plan.

    ATR 5307C: Therapeutic Interventions II (3)

    The study of the theory and application of various contemporary methods of therapeutic exercise in the rehabilitation of injuries to the physically active. The student is introduced to manual therapy techniques and other primary components of comprehensive rehabilitation designs.

    ATR 5406C: Clinical Medicine (3)

    An overview of the knowledge and skills that an athletic trainer must possess to recognize, treat and refer when appropriate, general medical conditions and disabilities of athletes and others involved in physical activity. Pharmacology is included as related to medical conditions and disabilities of physically active individuals.

    ATR 5825C: Clinical Integration II (3)

    An intermediate clinical experience in an Athletic Training/sports medicine setting with follow-up seminars. Students will develop competence in mid-level Athletic Training skills while providing care to physically active individuals under the direct supervision of a Certified Athletic Trainer. Additional clinical education experiences may be provided under the direct supervision of other licensed healthcare providers.

    Second Year

    Fall (13 credit hours)

    ATR 6308C: Therapeutic Interventions III (3)

    A study of the implementation, functional progressions, and outcomes in the process of rehabilitating injuries in a physically active population. Emphasis will be placed on rehabilitation goals and objectives as well as return to participation criteria.

    ATR 6516: Athletic Training Administration (3)

    An overview of the necessary policies, procedures, maintenance, and daily operation of Athletic Training facilities. Emphasis will be placed on human resource, financial, and information management, principles of facility design and planning, legal and ethical considerations, and professional development as it relates to Athletic Training.

    ATR 6617: Research Methods (3)

    This course explores the process and methods of scientific inquiry and interpretation of research findings in Athletic Training. Students will gain familiarity with the major elements of research including literature review, design and methodology, statistical analysis, presentation of data, and ethical considerations.

    ATR 6945L: Clinical-Decision Making I (1)

    In this course students will apply knowledge in the areas of injury prevention, orthopedic assessment, and therapeutic interventions in the management of injuries among physically active individuals through the use of case studies and simulations.

    ATR 6835C: Clinical Integration III (3)

    An advanced clinical experience in an Athletic Training/sports medicine setting with follow-up seminars. Students will integrate mid-level and advanced Athletic Training skills while providing care to physically active individuals under the direct supervision of a Certified Athletic Trainer. Additional clinical education experiences may be provided under the direct supervision of other licensed health care providers.

    Spring (10 credit hours)

    ATR 6505C: Seminar in Athletic Training (3)

    This course integrates prior Athletic Training coursework and clinical education experiences for the BOC Certification Exam. This course will also serve as a forum for discussion of current Athletic Training issues.

    ATR 6618: Applied Research (3)

    This course is designed for students to complete a capstone research project that will produce a scholarly product that will contribute to the profession of Athletic Training and one's own personal endeavors.

    ATR 6946L: Clinical-Decision Making II (1)

    In this course students will apply knowledge in the areas of clinical medicine, emergency care, health care administration, and evidence based practice in the athletic training setting through the use of case studies and simulations.

    ATR 6845C: Clinical Integration IV (3)

    An advanced clinical experience in an Athletic Training/sports medicine setting with follow-up seminars. Students will integrate advanced Athletic Training skills while providing care to physically active individuals under the direct supervision of a Certified Athletic Trainer. Additional clinical education experiences may be provided under the direct supervision of other licensed health care providers.

  • Tuition and Fees
    First Year
    Fee Cost
    Background Check $85.50
    NATA Membership $80
    Name Tag $10
    Shirts (between 2-6) $25/each
    CPR/AED certification $50
    ATrack Subscription      $90
    Second Year
    Fee Cost
    Background Re-Check $29.50
    NATA Membership $80

    *In addition to tuition, textbooks, and laboratory fees.

  • Program Outcomes
    View our Program Outcomes on the CAATE Website.
  • Technical Standards

    Technical Standards

    The profession of athletic training requires that the application of acquired knowledge be concurrent with the acquisition and development of psychomotor skills and tasks as well as professional behaviors and attitudes. The skills and behaviors listed below represent the minimal technical standards required for admission and retention in the Athletic Training Program at the University of North Florida. These requirements are needed to meet the necessary competencies and proficiencies to successfully complete the Program. 

    1. The student must possess the visual acuity and reading ability sufficient to monitor and manipulate equipment, implement modality and therapeutic treatments, and follow written protocols and/or plans of treatment for physically active individuals. 
    2. The student must possess the oral, auditory, and written abilities to effectively and sensitively communicate with patients, physicians, colleagues, and other allied health personnel. The student must also be able to establish rapport with patients and communicate judgments and treatment information effectively.
    3. The student must possess sufficient postural and neuromuscular control, sensory function, and coordination to perform appropriate physical examinations using accepted techniques. This includes sufficient motor control and function to position, transport, evaluate, and assist with moving physically active individuals. These physical and neurological requirements must be able to be implemented in both emergency and nonemergency situations.
    4. The student must possess and demonstrate the necessary professional behaviors, which include the affective skills and appropriate demeanor needed for professional education and quality patient care. The student must also demonstrate the ability to adjust to changing situations and uncertainty in clinical situations. Furthermore, the student must demonstrate the ability to maintain composure and continue to function effectively during periods of high stress. 

    All athletic training students must complete the University of North Florida Athletic Training Program Technical Standards form prior to admission into the Program. A student who is unable to fulfill these technical standards, with or without reasonable accommodation, will not be able to complete the Program. If accommodations are required, you can contact the Student Accessibility Center in Building 57, Room 1500 to determine what accommodations may be available.

  • Clinical Sites

    Athletic Training Clinical Sites

    Professional Settings

    Jacksonville Jaguars
    Jacksonville Icemen (Minor league ice hockey)
    Atlanta Falcons (Immersive experience only)
    Orlando City Soccer Club (Immersive experience only)

    Public High School Settings

    Duval County High Schools
    St. Johns County High Schools
    Clay County High School

    Private High School Settings

    Bishop Kenny High School
    Episcopal School of Jacksonville
    The Bolles School
    University Christian School

    Collegiate Settings

    University of North Florida
    Jacksonville University
    Flagler College
    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Immersive experience only)
    Clemson University (Immersive experience only)

    Clinic Settings

    Atlantic Coast Physical Therapy
    Brooks Center for Sports Therapy
    Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute

    Primary Care/Sports Medicine Physician Setting

    Center for Health and Sports Medicine

    Industrial Setting

    Moore Wellness (WestRock)

Contact the Program Director 

Joel Beam headshot

Joel W Beam EdD, LAT, ATC

Director, Athletic Training Program
Professor and Chair
Department of Clinical & Applied Movement Sciences
Phone: (904) 620-1424
Fax: (904) 620-1424
Email: jbeam@unf.edu