About the Program

The Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program prepares students to function as health care providers in injury prevention, recognition, treatment, and rehabilitation and is specifically designed to prepare students for a career in allied health care as a certified athletic trainer. Athletic trainers are currently employed in colleges and universities, public and private high schools, corporations, physical therapy clinics, professional organizations, the military, factories, and hospitals.

Seventy percent of all Certified Athletic Trainers hold at least a master’s degree. This is the professional standard. The MSAT program is specifically designed for students who already possess a bachelor’s degree in related allied health or exercise science area. The clinical Athletic Training program is open to all students who have completed a bachelor’s degree and who meet the admission criteria.

Historical Overview

The MSAT Program at Idaho State University was a work in progress that commenced almost eight years prior to being granted Idaho State Board of Education approval at its April 19, 2012 meeting. The search for a Program Director began immediately in anticipation for an initial cohort to begin in the summer of 2013.

The first cohort of MSAT students began in June, 2013. Application for initial accreditation was submitted on July 1, 2014. Initial accreditation was awarded in January, 2015 by the CAATE.