Master's of Exercise Science and Athletic Training: 

IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR THE PROFESSION OF ATHLETIC TRAINING

All Athletic Trainers will need a Master’s Degree in the near future.

Recently, the Athletic Training Strategic Alliance announced a mandate that the master’s degree will be the minimum entry level degree for athletic training. Follow this link to learn more about this important change. 

What does this mean for students interested in becoming an athletic trainer? You will not be able to become an athletic trainer without a master’s degree in the near future. 

Does Adrian College meet the requirements of this mandate? YES!!  Adrian College is the ONLY program in Michigan that currently meets this requirement. Furthermore, you can earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just 5 years

5 Year Combined Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree in Exercise Science and Athletic Training

Tine Claiborne, PhD, AT, ATC, CSCS developed the first Master’s Degree program on the campus of Adrian College. Dr. Claiborne was hired in 2007 to start a new Bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training, however her dedication to the advancement of Adrian College and the profession of athletic training led her to develop a new 5-year Master’s degree program. In just 5 years, athletic training students will earn a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and a Master of Science in Athletic Training. Over 70% of Athletic Trainers (ATs) have earned their Master’s Degree or higher. Now, Adrian College’s Athletic Training graduates will join the ranks of these professionals and be able to compete for the best jobs in the field!

Graduate Athletic Training Accreditation Status

In order for students to be eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam and become a certified athletic trainer (AT), they must graduate from a Commission on Accreditation for Athletic Training Education (CAATE) accredited  program. When a program is accredited, it means they meet the minimum standards necessary to prepare entry-level professionals. The athletic training program at Adrian College has been accredited since 2010. 

Please contact Dr. Claiborne at tclaiborne@adrian.edu with any additional questions regarding accreditation status. (Updated 2018)

Mission Statement

To deliver exceptional educational programming for the future success of athletic training graduates and the profession.

Program Goals

• The program will provide a secure, but intellectually stimulating academic environment that supports independent and cooperative learning across diverse student backgrounds.

• Using evidence based practice, students will collaborate with interprofessional teams of health professionals to provide patient centered care.

• Via scientific inquiry. students will consume, apply, and perform clinically relevant research.

• Students will exhibit and promote all aspects of professional and ethical conduct, and uphold the standards of practice.

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