Graduate Programs
Master of Science
in Athletic Training
Master of Science in Athletic Training
The educational objective of this program is to provide a curriculum leading to a Master of Science in Athletic Training. This degree is designed for students who are interested in careers in Athletic Training or related fields in which this certification and title is applicable. Upon graduating, students will be well versed in the field of Athletic Training, have a working knowledge and skill set based on the competencies set forth by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), and be prepared to sit for the National Board of Certification Exam from the (BOC).
Mission
The Mission of the WLU Athletic Training Program (ATP) is to graduate a student that demonstrates effective communication and ethical decision making while always considering patient‐centered values. In addition, the ability to practice and apply for evidence‐based medicine in patient care is vital. As well as providing a culture of peer mentoring and leadership that builds knowledge, strengthens clinical skill application, and facilitates an environment of continuous learning, while constantly advocating for the profession of athletic training in various healthcare settings.
2 Program options to meet your needs
Bachelors and Masters
3+2 Program
First-time freshmen and transfer students wanting to complete a degree in Athletic Training will begin their coursework in Exercise Physiology, Pre-Athletic Training. This undergraduate coursework will ensure students complete all necessary pre-requisite requirements for the MS in Athletic Training.
Masters Degree Only
(Starting Fall 2022)
Students who already have a bachelor’s degree and meet all pre-requisites to begin their graduate coursework in Athletic Training.
Athletic Training Admissions Requirements
- Students pursuing the 3+2 (Bachelors and Masters) must meet undergraduate admissions requirements for WLU. Students will later submit the required materials below while completing their bachelor’s degree with the help of their academic advisor.
- Official transcripts from a regionally accredited college or university, with a 3.0 GPA
- Bachelors degree in healthcare or science-related fields such as Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, pre-healthcare profession or equivalent
- 50 Observation Hours from 2 different AT settings
- 3 letters of recommendation: 2 of the recommenders must be from the supervising certified athletic trainers from each of the observation hours settings.
- Essay on why you are choosing Athletic Training as a profession
- Completed pre-requisite coursework requirements
Schedule a Campus Visit
Admissions Events are designed to give prospective students and their families an opportunity to learn more about West Liberty University. Schedule your visit today!
Practicum/Internship Sites
- Bethany College, WV
- Wheeling Park High School, WV
- Brooke High School, WV
- The Linsly School, WV
- Shadyside High School, OH
- Bellaire High School, OH
- Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School, PA
- Wheeling Nailers Hockey, WV
- Mountain River Physical Therapy, WV
- Reynolds Memorial Hospital, WV
- Wheeling Hospital, WV
- East Ohio Regional Hospital, OH
- Trinity Health System, OH
- Wheeling Health Right, WV
Program Goals
Outcome 1: Students will demonstrate the ability to provide quality healthcare to a diverse patient population in various healthcare settings.
Outcome 2: Students will understand the roles and responsibilities of an athletic trainer across a variety of health care settings.
Outcome 3: Students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to interpret current evidence-based research and apply it to clinical practice.
Outcome 4: Students will be able to communicate effectively to a variety of people in various health care professions.
BOC Pass Rates
| BOC Pass Rates | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 | 3-Year Aggregate |
| Number of students graduating from WLU AT program | 4 | 4 | 5 | 13 |
| Number of students graduating from WLU AT program that took exam | 3 | 2 | 3 | 8 |
| Number of students from WLU AT program that passed the exam on the first attempt | 2 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| Percentage of students from WLU AT program that passed the exam on the first attempt | 67% | 0% | 67% | 31% |
| Number of students who passed the exam regardless of the number of attempts | 2 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| Percentage of students who passed the exam regardless of the number of attempts | 67% | 0% | 67% | 31% |
More Information
The West Liberty University Athletic Training Program is currently on probation by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), 6850 Austin Center Blvd., Suite 100, Austin, TX 78731-3101. The program has chosen to Voluntarily Withdraw its Accreditation effective May 20, 2022. The program will remain on probation until the Withdraw is effective and the program is closed. For questions about the Athletic Training major at WLU or the accreditation status please contact: Dr. David R. Hanna PT, DPT, MS, ATC
Your Future as an Athletic Trainer
Percent Change in Employment 2029
Employment of athletic trainers is projected to grow 16% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for athletic trainers is expected to increase as people become more aware of the effects of sports-related injuries, and as the middle-aged and older population remains active..
Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/athletic-trainers.htm#tab-6
Contact
Dr. David Hanna
MSAT Program Director
211 ASRC
304.336.8547
[email protected]
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