Program Overview
Central Methodist University's Athletic Training 3+2 program combines undergraduate Exercise Science with a Master of Science in Athletic Training. This accelerated program prepares students for careers as certified athletic trainers, working with athletes of all ages and abilities to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries and medical conditions. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, clinical experiences, and interprofessional collaboration, ensuring graduates are highly sought after by employers.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Athletic Training 3+2 program at Central Methodist University is a 5-year accelerated program that combines undergraduate studies in Exercise Science with a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT). This program prepares students for a career as a certified athletic trainer, working with athletes of all ages and abilities to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries and medical conditions.
Objectives:
- Provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful athletic trainers.
- Develop students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Foster students' professional development and prepare them for leadership roles in the field of athletic training.
- Instill in students the values of interprofessional collaboration, patient-centered care, and ethical practice.
Program Description:
The program is divided into two phases:
- Years 1-3: Students will be enrolled in the Exercise Science program, completing general education coursework and program prerequisite coursework.
- Years 3-5: Students will apply to and, upon acceptance, begin the MSAT program. During this phase, students will complete both didactic coursework and clinical experiences, culminating in the completion of a capstone project.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Didactic Coursework: Students will receive instruction in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, exercise physiology, nutrition, pathology, pharmacology, first aid, CPR, taping and bandaging techniques, injury assessment and management, rehabilitation techniques, and more.
- Clinical Experiences: Students will complete a variety of supervised clinical experiences in a variety of settings, including high schools, colleges and universities, professional sports teams, hospitals, and clinics.
Program Structure:
- The program is offered on a full-time basis.
- Students will take 12-15 credit hours per semester.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, including written exams, quizzes, practical skills assessments, clinical evaluations, and a capstone project.
Assessment Criteria:
- Students will be assessed on their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, exercise physiology, nutrition, pathology, pharmacology, first aid, CPR, taping and bandaging techniques, injury assessment and management, rehabilitation techniques, and more.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, laboratory experiences, simulations, and clinical rotations.
Faculty:
- The program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.
Unique Approaches:
- The program emphasizes hands-on learning and clinical experiences.
- The program integrates interprofessional education into the curriculum.
- The program uses technology to enhance the learning experience.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Certified Athletic Trainer
- High School Athletic Trainer
- College or University Athletic Trainer
- Professional Sports Athletic Trainer
- Clinical Athletic Trainer
- Strength and Conditioning Coach
Career Opportunities:
- Secondary schools
- Colleges and universities
- Professional sports teams
- Performing arts organizations
- Military and law enforcement agencies
- Hospitals and clinics
- Industrial medicine settings
Career Outcomes:
- The program has a strong track record of preparing graduates for successful careers in athletic training.
- The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
- Students who successfully complete the program are eligible to take the Board of Certification (BOC) exam to become certified athletic trainers.
- The program is committed to providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for both professional success and personal growth.
Summary:
The Athletic Training 3+2 program at Central Methodist University is a comprehensive and rigorous program that prepares students for a successful career as a certified athletic trainer. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, clinical experiences, and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates of the program are highly sought after by employers and are well-prepared for a variety of career opportunities.
