How long will it take to complete the program?
A. The MSAT program is completed over a minimum of two years. A traditional post-baccalaureate graduate program requires the bachelor's degree to be conferred before matriculation
into the program. Bellarmine students enrolled in the Exercise Science Sport Performance track that applies for early admission, have the opportunity to complete both a Bachelor's degree and Master's degree in five years rather than the traditional
six.
What do I need to be successful in the program?
Athletic training is a demanding program of study - the majority of athletic training courses include classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences. The courses will have an
average weekly requirement of 14 credit hours. Approximately three hours of study time per credit hour is recommended each week to be successful. The ability to prioritize and organize one's time and have good study habits are critical assets for
successful outcomes.
Where will I complete my clinical experiences?
A. To adhere to the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) guidelines, students will spend much of their clinical time in traditional sports settings
such as the athletic training facility on campus, which helps care for 22 NCAA Division I varsity teams. Also, students will be assigned to local high schools, as well as various healthcare agencies across central Kentucky including hospitals, outpatient
clinics, and physician offices. For your full-time intensive experiences, students have chosen professional sports teams and other colleges and universities across the country.
How do I become a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC)?
A. Graduates of a CAATE accredited program are eligible to sit for the certification examination for athletic trainers offered through the Board of Certification (BOC).
Is the program accredited?
Bellarmine University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), 6850 Austin Center Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78731-3184
Do states require licensure to practice like other health care professions?
Most states do require some form of licensure for athletic trainers to practice. Upon passing the BOC examination and meeting specific state requirements,
graduates are eligible to apply for licensure by the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and/or other comparable agencies in other states.
How can I finance my Bellarmine education?
Graduate students are eligible for up to $20,500 in guaranteed Stafford student loans per academic year. Students may also explore the Grad PLUS Loan and alternative loans. Visit
https://www.bellarmine.edu/financialaid for more information.
What unique opportunities will I have as a Bellarmine MSAT student?
Interprofessional education is important to learn how to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals. All students will have the opportunity
to work alongside Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) students and faculty in the on-campus athletic training facility. Students will have regular exposure to BU's physicians when they visit campus to see injured and ill athletes. The curriculum was
designed to maximize opportunities for nursing, DPT, and MSAT students to work together in classes, clinicals, study abroad opportunities to the Dominican Republic, and through active engagement in exploring and addressing community-based needs for
athletic training intervention and expertise.
When does the program begin?
The MSAT program begins in July. Students participate in a one-day
orientation on the morning of the first day of class.