Master of Science in Athletic Training

Prerequisites

Students entering this graduate program are expected to have appropriate academic preparation prior to beginning academic coursework in athletic training. The following courses are listed using Montana State University Billings rubrics and course titles. Transcript evaluation will be done by the graduate faculty to determine fulfillment of prerequisite knowledge in these areas. The course description and/or syllabus will be used to determine acceptance.

Human Physiology and Anatomy with Lab, 2 semesters
Exercise Physiology
Kinesiology or Biomechanics
General Psychology
Basic Nutrition
Statistics

Preferred courses:

Motor Learning
undergraduate research course

Students must complete a plan of study for the Office of Graduate Studies and Research
Students must have a physical examination to verify the technical standards. A student does not have to complete a physical or technical standards as part of the application process into the program; however, must provide proof of physical and technical standard after acceptance and prior to attending classes. If a student does not pass the physical or technical standard, those issues will be addressed on a case by case basis.
It is recommended that the students have a Hepatitis B Vaccination, if not they must sign a waiver form.
A two-year (five semester) minimum time period must be allowed for the completion of the required clinical hours once the student is admitted into the program.
You will receive notification from the graduate studies office when your application has been received. Applications are reviewed by the Program Director and ATEP Faculty within 3 weeks of the application deadline. You will be notified of the decision regarding your application by the graduate studies office.
For the most updated information, please see the Athletic Training Education web site or the Graduate Studies web site.

Program and Retention Requirements

Students must be enrolled in the Athletic Training Education Program a minimum of 2 years (5 semesters).

Students must complete a background check (OIG) prior to beginning clinical rotations.
Students must maintain current CPR and First Aid certifications.
Students must have an annual physical examination to verify technical standards.
Students must take the University and affiliated site, Blood Borne Pathogen OSHA Training each year.
Student must maintain MMR immunization and current TB test.
Students must maintain personal liability insurance 1 & 3 million.
Students must maintain a 3.00 cumulative GPA, 3.0 GPA for Athletic Training courses (earning at least a 2.0 for didactic courses and 3.0 for clinical courses).
Students must complete field experience each semester over two annual years (900 hours).
Students must complete a thesis or research project under the supervision of department faculty.
Students must successfully complete clinical/field experiences each semester and must pass all competencies and field experience evaluations.
Students must read and sign the policy and procedure manual.
Students must meet with the program director or clinical supervisor at least once per semester.

Student Learning and Outcomes Assessment

The National Athletic Training Association (NATA), the Board of Certification (BOC) for Athletic Training and Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) have set the benchmarks for education, exam preparation and professional practice. The MSU Billings Athletic Training Education Program seeks to meet and exceed the educational requirements presented in the NATA Athletic Training Educational Competencies. The program seeks further to produce athletic trainers who possess the ability to function as entry-level athletic trainers in accordance with the current role delineation study, but also have the ability to conduct and evaluate research in the athletic training field.

Students who complete the Montana State University Billings Master of Science in Athletic Training will:

Demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities as defined in the competencies and proficiencies established by NATA.
Engage in critical thinking and clinical decision making.
Communicate with the public and other medical and health professionals.
Appreciate the need for professional and community involvement.
Demonstrate and appreciate research related to athletic training.

Outcome assessments are conducted in each course, during clinical experiences, and at the conclusion of the research project or thesis.

The athletic training program has been granted Initial Accreditation CAATE and has received a five year accreditation by Commission On Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Students are eligible to sit for the BOC examination.

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