M.S. Athletic Training Courses & Curriculum
The Master of Science in Athletic Training is a professional program consisting of six semesters and a total of 55 units. Admissions occur annually, with classes commencing in June for each cohort. As a student in the athletic training program, you will become a healthcare professional and have the opportunity to pursue additional certifications and trainings.
Students will investigate solutions and address the evolving healthcare landscape through evidence-based medicine and interdisciplinary collaboration. Courses that focus on clinical practice, patient care, therapeutic modalities, and orthopedic injuries provide both theoretical and practical learning opportunities. You will gain experience in performing evaluations, clinical skills for emergency situations, suturing, therapeutic modalities, joint reductions, and therapeutic exercises. 
Extra trainings and certificates that are obtained include:
- Louisiana Emergency Medical Responder (can take national test if they would like to)
- BLS CPR and AED certification
- Stop the Bleed training
- Allies training
- QPR Gatekeeper training
2024-2025 Curriculum Sequence >>
Clinical Rotations
The athletic training curriculum features four clinical rotations that provide students with diverse experiences.
You will collaborate closely with a diverse array of healthcare professionals in various settings, including the university, secondary schools, physical therapy clinics, physician offices, and health clinics. This includes working alongside athletic trainers, physical therapists, chiropractors, sports nutritionists, counselors, nurses, physicians, and emergency medical technicians.
Throughout these four clinical rotations, you will have opportunities to grow professionally and develop a comprehensive, interdisciplinary understanding of healthcare culture.
You will also complete a immersive clinical experience, where you will work alongside a certified athletic trainer and engage in the full-time, day-to-day responsibilities of a healthcare provider. This hands-on experience allows you to understand the complete spectrum of care delivered by clinicians.
Utilize the knowledge and skills acquired during your time in the athletic training program while receiving constructive feedback from a licensed professional. This process will enhance your confidence in your abilities, equipping you with essential job skills and professional socialization to ensure a smooth transition into your career.
Thesis or Non-Thesis Options
Thesis option: The thesis option in the MSAT program requires students to conduct original research, which they develop alongside their committee chair. Students enroll in six hours of KNES 599 coursework and must defend their thesis in front of their committee. Upon unanimous committee approval, the thesis is submitted for publication or presentation, contributing to the field of athletic training. If the requirements aren't met by the deadline, additional semesters are required.
Non-thesis option: The non-thesis capstone project option in the MSAT program involves practical application, requiring students to complete KNES 545, earning Louisiana certification as an Emergency Medical Responder and eligibility for national certification exams. Students draft a capstone project agreement, approved by the committee, and submit their work for publication or presentation. As with the thesis option, the project must receive unanimous approval from the committee or additional coursework is required.
Sports Medicine Association (SMS)
The Sports Medicine Association is a student-led organization within the School of Kinesiology, dedicated to engage Kinesiology students with regional, state, and national organizations. It also fosters student-faculty connections and provides social and academic opportunities outside the classroom. More information can be found in here.