M.S. in Athletic Training

Athletic Training is a multi-faceted field that combines a love for and interest in sports medicine, biology, physiology, medicine, and the science of exercise. With a master's degree and your certification in hand, you will be able to work with athletes and other physically active individuals in treating, diagnosing, and preventing sports injuries, as well as promoting their overall health. Combine this education with a strong sense of compassion and empathy for others, attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal skills, and you'll be on your way to a rewarding career in this field.

Why study Athletic Training at AU?

Studying at AU is student-centered, student-focused, and career-focused, with hands-on work experience and small class sizes that allow you to really explore all options in Athletic Training.

AU's Athletic Training program is known across the country for its high student pass rates on the medical board exam, which are some of the highest in the State of Illinois. There is even a course just to help students prepare for the medical board exam.

All Athletic Training education programs must transition to a master's degree. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can continue your studies in AU's Master of Science in Athletic Training program. AU also offers an accelerated track to a graduate degree with our “3+2” program that allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and a Master of Science in Athletic Training in just five years.

The Athletic Training program follows a two-year, 60-semester-hours, curriculum. You will have the opportunity to work closely with your professors and with other students in an intimate and personal learning environment since the average class size is just 16 students.

New undergraduate students are currently able to enter the “3+2” track. Admission to the master’s program will begin in the 2020-2021 academic year. Athletic trainers are licensed or otherwise regulated in 49 states and the District of Columbia; efforts continue to secure regulation in California, according to the National Athletic Trainers Association.

Your journey at AU begins with choices. Maybe you already know what you want to study. Or perhaps you’re unsure. Either way, you’ll be introduced to a world of options.

You’ll learn from award-winning professors who make teaching a priority. You’ll be supported by academic tutors and student success advisors who will help chart your journey. You’ll grow through volunteer programs and professional experiences. You’ll graduate prepared to succeed.

All this will be done on a safe, tree-lined campus nestled in a residential neighborhood with easy access to Chicago.