COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science (MS) in Athletic Training at Wichita State University is a comprehensive 64-credit-hour graduate program designed to prepare students for professional practice as certified athletic trainers through a combination of academic coursework, clinical experiences, research training, and certification preparation. The curriculum is completed over two years and emphasizes injury prevention, evaluation, emergency care, rehabilitation, therapeutic interventions, healthcare administration, and evidence-based practice. During the first summer semester, students study palpatory evaluation and assessment, clinical techniques, and emergency care management. The first fall semester focuses on athletic injury evaluation, foundations of athletic training, and Applied Learning I, providing supervised clinical experience. In the spring semester, students complete courses in research methods, advanced injury evaluation, therapeutic interventions, and Applied Learning II. During the second year, the summer curriculum includes athletic injury rehabilitation, evidence-based practice, and general medical conditions affecting athletic populations. The fall semester emphasizes organization and administration in athletic training, advanced therapeutic interventions, and Applied Learning III. In the final spring semester, students complete coursework in statistical concepts, applied research in athletic training, Applied Learning IV, and a comprehensive Board of Certification review course designed to prepare them for professional credentialing. A major feature of the program is the extensive applied learning sequence, which spans four semesters and allows students to gain hands-on clinical experience working with athletes and physically active individuals under professional supervision. In addition to completing all required coursework, students must successfully fulfill applied learning requirements, conduct an applied research project, and pass a comprehensive examination. During their final semester, students apply for and sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) examination, which is required for professional athletic training certification. The program’s combination of classroom instruction, clinical education, research experience, and certification preparation ensures graduates are well equipped to work in schools, colleges, universities, professional sports organizations, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine clinics, military settings, and other healthcare environments. Graduates leave the program with the advanced knowledge, practical skills, and professional credentials needed to provide high-quality healthcare services focused on injury prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and athletic performance enhancement.