Master of Science in Athletic Training

Why an MSAT?

The Augustana University Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) Program places quality care at the center as it prepares graduates to serve as qualified professionals who manage health care issues in physically active patients — with an emphasis on the collegiate athlete.

  • This curriculum focuses on the big picture, from holistic treatment and mentorship philosophies to a focus on the success of each student.
  • Students are members of the AU Sports Medicine Team, who are treated as a vital component of the health care of active individuals.
  • This program is part of the greater Sanford Health network in Sioux Falls, which helps students gain exceptional experiences in a variety of health care settings.
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Master of Science in Athletic Training, School of Health Professions


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Augustana University will offer a major in strength & conditioning beginning in the fall. Based within the School of Health Professions, the program is set to be the first in South Dakota accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE).

Augustana University student Janai Crawford ‘23, of Tea, South Dakota, is pre-physical therapy, majoring in exercise science on her way to earning a Master of Science in athletic training (MSAT). Crawford wants to become a physical therapist and specialize in sports medicine. This summer, she fulfilled a goal that had been years in the making — securing an internship with LifeCare Prahran Sports Medicine in Melbourne, Australia.

Highlights

Athletic Training Basketball Game

At Augustana University, patient care is placed at the center of athletic training and sports medicine. The Augustana Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) Program educates sports medicine professionals to become a health care team with individualized treatment options. Some students combine this master’s degree with pre-physical therapy.

The Augustana MSAT offers a 4+1 advanced track and a 2-year track. 

Clinical Experience

Augustana MSAT students get clinical experiences in high school, collegiate, orthopedic, rehabilitation and family practice as part of a well-rounded clinical education plan. AU’s clinical preceptors serve as medical personnel for the majority of sporting events in the region.

Clinical opportunities through an Augustana partnership with Sanford Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Sioux Falls include:

  • Special events at the Sanford Sports Complex
  • Professional Bull Riders (PBR) at the Denny Sanford Premier Center
  • Research and strength training at the Sanford Sports Science Institute and Sanford Fieldhouse
  • Professional sports at the Sanford Pentagon

Augustana MSAT students often have the opportunity to work with Augustana Athletics teams and the team physician.

Early Assurance Direct Admit (EADA) Pathway to Physical Therapy 

The Augustana University Early Assurance Direct Admit (EADA) Pathway allows high school seniors pursuing a career in health care to earn three degrees in seven years. 

  • Accepted students are guaranteed admission into both the Augustana Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs.
  • Graduates of this program will be eligible to sit for certification/licensure exams to be dual credentialed as an athletic trainer and physical therapist.

Over seven years, students in the Augustana EADA Pathway complete:

  • Prerequisite requirements for the MSAT and DPT programs
  • A bachelor’s degree with 3.0 minimum GPA
  • The MSAT for entrance into the DPT Program