Master of Science (M.S.) Major in Athletic Training (Professional Master's)

AT 5101. Graduate Assistant Development.

This course is required of all graduate assistants and provides regular in-service and planned periodic evaluations of instructional responsibilities. Graduate assistants are required to register for this course in the spring semester of their employment. This course does not earn graduate degree credit.

AT 5120. Principles in Athletic Training.

This course builds upon students’ existing knowledge in health and exercise sciences to develop evidence informed proficiency in the foundational principles of athletic training. Students study the anatomical, physiological, and mechanical bases of injury, along with processes related to tissue healing, pain mechanisms, and clinical documentation. Emphasis is placed on accurate injury classification, secondary assessment procedures, risk reduction strategies, and introductory taping and wrapping techniques. Through lecture, demonstration, and applied practice, students gain the core competencies needed to understand professional expectations, communicate during clinical observations, and prepare for advanced coursework in the athletic training curriculum.

AT 5191. Capstone I.

This course serves as a supervised project in which students analyze outcomes within a defined area of clinical practice. Students collect and interpret patient outcomes data in a practice based research environment to develop skills in evidence-informed decision-making. Instruction emphasizes research methodology, data organization, professional writing, and critical appraisal of clinical questions. This course represents the first stage of the capstone sequence required for graduation and prepares students for continued project development in Capstone II.

AT 5192. Capstone II.

This course continues the graduate research sequence and culminates in a supervised project focused on analyzing outcomes within a selected area of clinical practice. Students complete data collection, conduct data analysis, and prepare findings for presentation in written, oral, and poster formats. Instruction emphasizes research methodology, professional writing, and interpretation of clinical outcomes. This course represents the final stage of the capstone sequence required for degree completion and supports students in synthesizing project results in alignment with evidence informed practice. Prerequisite: AT 5191 with a grade of "C" or better.

AT 5199B. Thesis.

This course provides ongoing enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing. Students enroll in this course each term while making progress toward completion of an approved thesis. The course facilitates continued faculty supervision, maintenance of university enrollment requirements, and access to institutional resources that support independent scholarly work. Emphasis is placed on the sustained development, refinement, and documentation of research activities rather than on specific methodological or theoretical commitments. Students use this period to organize data, analyze findings, prepare drafts, and respond to feedback from their thesis committee. This course concludes when the student submits the final thesis manuscript for binding according to institutional guidelines.

AT 5201. Graduate Assistant Development.

This course is required of all graduate assistants and provides in-service and planned periodic evaluations of instructional responsibilities. Graduate assistants are required to register for this course in the fall semester of their employment. This course does not earn graduate degree credit.

AT 5230. Clinical Experience I.

This course integrates foundational concepts in athletic injury evaluation, management, and intervention into a clinical education experience. Students apply cognitive knowledge, psychomotor skills, and professional behaviors while participating in structured case simulations and supervised patient care. The course combines didactic instruction with clinical practice at an assigned site under the guidance of a qualified clinical instructor. Emphasis is placed on developing clinical reasoning, documenting patient encounters, observing the totality of athletic training services, and gaining experience with professional expectations. This immersion prepares students for subsequent clinical coursework and supports competency development across multiple domains of athletic training practice. This course is the first course in a series of five progressive clinical experience courses that allow students to engage in hand-on patient care in a variety of settings. Students must be successful in this course to progress to the next clinical experience in the program. Prerequisite: AT 5320 with a grade of "C" or better.

AT 5231. Clinical Experience II.

This course integrates instruction in athletic injury evaluation, management, and intervention within an immersive clinical education environment. Students apply cognitive, psychomotor, and professional skills through supervised experiences at an assigned clinical site. Coursework includes guided practice, proficiency based case simulations, and opportunities to engage in structured decision-making under the supervision of a clinical instructor. The course emphasizes the development of clinical reasoning, technical skill application, and professional behaviors required for effective athletic training practice. Prerequisite: AT 5230 with a grade of "C" or better.

AT 5232. Clinical Experience III.

This course integrates foundational concepts in athletic injury evaluation, management, and intervention into a clinical education experience. Students apply cognitive knowledge, psychomotor skills, and professional behaviors while participating in structured case simulations and supervised patient care. The course combines didactic instruction with clinical practice at an assigned site under the guidance of a qualified clinical preceptor. Emphasis is placed on developing clinical reasoning, documenting patient encounters, observing the totality of athletic training services, and gaining experience with professional expectations. This clinical experience prepares students for subsequent clinical coursework and supports competency development across multiple domains of athletic training practice. Prerequisite: AT 5230 and AT 5231 with a grade of "C" or better.

AT 5299B. Thesis.

This course provides ongoing enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing. Students enroll in this course each term while making progress toward completion of an approved thesis. The course facilitates continued faculty supervision, maintenance of university enrollment requirements, and access to institutional resources that support independent scholarly work. Emphasis is placed on the sustained development, refinement, and documentation of research activities rather than on specific methodological or theoretical commitments. Students use this period to organize data, analyze findings, prepare drafts, and respond to feedback from their thesis committee. This course concludes when the student submits the final thesis manuscript for binding according to institutional guidelines.

AT 5300. Musculoskeletal Assessment of the Lower Extremities.

This course provides an in‑depth examination of musculoskeletal conditions affecting the lower extremity and the clinical processes used to evaluate them. Students develop skills in history taking, physical examination, orthopedic testing, and clinical reasoning as applied to the hip, knee, ankle, and foot. Instruction includes lecture, case‑based learning, hands‑on laboratory practice, and standardized patient encounters designed to reinforce systematic evaluation procedures. Emphasis is placed on identifying signs and symptoms, interpreting examination findings, integrating evidence‑based resources, and using structured frameworks to support differential diagnosis. By the end of the course, students will be able to perform comprehensive assessments of lower extremity injuries and apply clinical reasoning to guide subsequent management decisions.

AT 5301. Musculoskeletal Assessment of the Upper Extremity.

This course provides an in‑depth study of musculoskeletal assessment techniques for the upper extremity. Students develop skills in taking patient histories, performing structured physical examinations, and identifying signs and symptoms associated with conditions of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, and fingers. Instruction includes lectures, case‑based discussion, laboratory practice, and standardized patient encounters. Emphasis is placed on systematic evaluation, interpretation of clinical findings, and application of evidence‑based reasoning to develop differential diagnoses. Students learn to incorporate relevant outcome measures and established clinical frameworks to guide decision‑making. The course builds foundational competencies for subsequent clinical education and prepares students to integrate examination data into effective patient care planning to formulate differential diagnoses and inform patient-centered treatment plans.

AT 5305. Musculoskeletal Assessment of Head/Face/Spine and Neurological Systems.

This course provides athletic training students with foundational knowledge and applied skills necessary to conduct comprehensive clinical evaluations of musculoskeletal and neurologically related injuries. The course focuses on evaluation techniques for the spine, pelvis, thorax, head, and neurological conditions. Instruction integrates face-to-face lecture and laboratory experiences. By the end of the course, students will be able to systematically assess injury presentations and apply appropriate clinical evaluation techniques to support informed clinical decision-making. Prerequisite: AT 5300 and AT 5301 with grades of "B" or better.

AT 5313. Therapeutic Interventions I.

This course provides students with foundational knowledge of therapeutic intervention techniques used in the treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions. Students learn the theoretical principles and clinical applications of a systems based approach to therapeutic modalities, including indications, contraindications, mechanisms of action, and safe implementation. The course emphasizes critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and adherence to established professional standards. Laboratory activities and supervised practice allow students to apply concepts in controlled settings. This course prepares students for advanced therapeutic interventions coursework and supports competence in delivering evidence informed care within the scope of athletic training practice. Corequisite: AT 5301 and AT 5300 both with grades of "B" or better.

AT 5314. Therapeutic Interventions II.

This course examines the theoretical foundations and clinical applications of therapeutic exercise used in the management of musculoskeletal injuries. Students learn to apply a systems based approach to selecting, progressing, and evaluating therapeutic exercise interventions. Instruction includes lecture, demonstration, laboratory practice, and case based analysis to support safe and effective clinical decision making. Emphasis is placed on the physiological principles underlying exercise selection, integration of interventions into patient care plans, and alignment with evidence supported practice. This course prepares students for advanced therapeutic coursework and reinforces essential competencies required for developing, implementing, and progressing rehabilitation programs. Prerequisite: AT 5313 with a grade of "B" or better.

AT 5320. Emergency Assessment and Management.

This course prepares students to recognize, evaluate, differentiate, and manage common emergent and traumatic conditions encountered in athletic training settings. Emphasis is placed on scene assessment, triage principles, acute patient management, and the application of evidence informed strategies to support safe and timely care. Students study clinical decision-making processes related to life threatening situations, modern approaches to emergency communication, and interprofessional collaboration within healthcare systems. Instruction includes the use of contemporary health informatics and quality-improvement practices that inform patient care and documentation. Through guided practice and scenario based learning, students develop foundational competencies essential for responding to acute injuries, medical conditions, and emergency events within the scope of athletic training.

AT 5333. Internship in Athletic Training.

This course provides a 400-hour supervised internship designed to develop practical competencies in athletic training. Students engage in professional activities in approved clinical settings and work with a range of patient populations under faculty guided supervision. The internship emphasizes application of clinical skills, collaboration with health care professionals, and adherence to established professional standards. Experiences may include patient interaction, care documentation, and participation in daily operations related to athletic training services. This course supports students’ development of professional judgment and competence within the scope of contemporary athletic training practice. Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

AT 5334. Clinical Experience IV.

This course integrates foundational concepts in athletic injury evaluation, management, and intervention into a clinical education experience. Students apply cognitive knowledge, psychomotor skills, and professional behaviors while participating in structured case simulations and supervised patient care. The course combines didactic instruction with clinical practice at an assigned site under the guidance of a qualified clinical preceptor. Emphasis is placed on developing clinical reasoning, documenting patient encounters, observing the totality of athletic training services, and gaining experience with professional expectations. This immersion prepares students for subsequent clinical coursework and supports competency development across multiple domains of athletic training practice. Prerequisite: AT 5230 and AT 5231 and AT 5232 and AT 5333 all with grades of "C" or better.

AT 5335. Clinical Experience V.

This course integrates foundational concepts in athletic injury evaluation, management, and intervention into a clinical education experience. Students apply cognitive knowledge, psychomotor skills, and professional behaviors while participating in structured case simulations and supervised patient care. The course combines didactic instruction with clinical practice at an assigned site under the guidance of a qualified clinical preceptor. Emphasis is placed on developing clinical reasoning, documenting patient encounters, observing the totality of athletic training services, and gaining experience with professional expectations. This immersion prepares students for subsequent clinical coursework and supports competency development across multiple domains of athletic training practice. Prerequisite: AT 5230 and AT 5231 and AT 5232 and AT 5333 and AT 5334 all with grades of "B" or better.

AT 5340. Research Methods and Evidence Based Practice in Athletic Training.

This course introduces students to the foundational elements of research design, scientific databases, critical appraisal tools, and basic statistical concepts used in athletic training and related health professions. Students learn methods for locating and interpreting peer‑reviewed evidence, evaluating research quality, and distinguishing among common study designs. Instruction also includes strategies for writing research reports, preparing academic posters, and understanding the manuscript submission process. Emphasis is placed on applying evidence‑based practice principles to clinical decision‑making. By integrating research skills with practical applications, students gain the competencies necessary for assessing scientific literature and informing professional practice.

AT 5341. Pathopharmacology.

This course examines physiological and pathological processes associated with general medical conditions and systemic diseases relevant to physically active populations. Students study pharmacological principles including drug actions, interactions, indications, contraindications, and regulatory considerations. Emphasis is placed on interpreting medical presentations, applying foundational and advanced medication principles, and integrating pharmacological and non‑pharmacological strategies into patient care. Through lecture, case analysis, and structured clinical‑reasoning activities, students evaluate conditions across body systems and consider appropriate referral or collaborative care. The course prepares students to apply safe and effective medication‑management concepts within the scope of athletic training practice and supports the development of competencies needed for accurate assessment, informed decision‑making, and evidence‑based patient management. Prerequisite: AT 5320 with a grade of "C" or better.

AT 5342. Administration and Leadership in Athletic Training.

This course examines administrative and operational components of athletic training services. Students explore risk management practices, facility operations, medical documentation systems, budgeting and resource allocation, and third-party reimbursement processes. Instruction emphasizes the use of health informatics tools to support accurate record keeping and effective delivery of patient care. Through case based examples and applied administrative tasks, students analyze policies, develop operational procedures, and examine the organizational structures that guide athletic training programs. The course prepares students to perform core administrative responsibilities and understand leadership functions relevant to athletic training practice.

AT 5343. Interdisciplinary Approach to Athletic Training.

This course examines interprofessional collaboration and its role in delivering effective patient care within athletic training environments. Students explore teamwork models, communication strategies, and professional responsibilities that contribute to coordinated healthcare delivery. Course topics include interprofessional team structures, collaborative decision making, conflict management strategies, and the application of the biopsychosocial model to patient cases. Through case-based learning and applied activities, students analyze how diverse healthcare professionals contribute to assessment, planning, and implementation of patient care. The course addresses administrative, ethical, and educational considerations associated with collaborative practice.

AT 5344. Advanced Clinical Decision Making.

This course provides students with opportunities to examine advanced aspects of patient evaluation, intervention planning, and outcome appraisal within a simulated learning environment. Students study physical and psychosocial factors that may influence patient care and analyze how these variables inform clinical decisions. The course introduces transition to practice concepts, including the study of legislative and regulatory considerations relevant to clinical settings, as well as structured exposure to selected advanced skills such as suturing and intravenous access procedures. Students apply clinical decision making frameworks developed throughout the program to interpret case information, generate intervention plans, and assess the effectiveness of selected strategies.

AT 5347. Independent Study in Athletic Training.

This course provides an opportunity for students to pursue an independent research project in Athletic Training under faculty supervision. Students identify a research question, gather and analyze relevant data, and prepare a written report that documents their findings. The focus of the course is the development of disciplined inquiry skills, methodological rigor, and clear academic communication rather than adherence to any specific theoretical or interpretive framework. Students work closely with a supervising faculty member to establish project objectives, monitor progress, and ensure that research activities align with program standards and ethical requirements. This course may be repeated once for credit when the research topic or project scope differs sufficiently from prior work. Prerequisite: ESS 5346 with a grade of "C" or better.

AT 5399A. Thesis.

This course provides a graduate student’s initial enrollment in the thesis sequence. Students develop a thesis proposal, establish research goals, and begin supervised scholarly work that will continue in AT 5399B. Progress is evaluated through faculty guidance and documented research engagement. Credit is awarded only upon completion of the full thesis sequence. The course is graded on a credit (CR), progress (PR), or no credit (F) basis.

AT 5399B. Thesis.

This course provides ongoing enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing. Students enroll in this course each term while making progress toward completion of an approved thesis. The course facilitates continued faculty supervision, maintenance of university enrollment requirements, and access to institutional resources that support independent scholarly work. Emphasis is placed on the sustained development, refinement, and documentation of research activities rather than on specific methodological or theoretical commitments. Students use this period to organize data, analyze findings, prepare drafts, and respond to feedback from their thesis committee. This course concludes when the student submits the final thesis manuscript for binding according to institutional guidelines.

AT 5400. Gross Applied Anatomy.

This course examines the structure and function of the human body with emphasis on the skeletal, muscular, and related anatomical systems. Students study the organization, relationships, and physiological roles of tissues and structures relevant to clinical practice in athletic training. Instruction includes the analysis of joint function, neural anatomy, and circulatory pathways that support movement and functional performance. Laboratory experiences feature guided dissection of the human cadaver to support understanding of anatomical variation, structural relationships, and professional terminology. Through laboratory and lecture integration, students develop foundational knowledge essential for clinical evaluation, patient assessment, and future coursework in athletic training.

AT 5599B. Thesis.

This course provides ongoing enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing. Students enroll in this course each term while making progress toward completion of an approved thesis. The course facilitates continued faculty supervision, maintenance of university enrollment requirements, and access to institutional resources that support independent scholarly work. Emphasis is placed on the sustained development, refinement, and documentation of research activities rather than on specific methodological or theoretical commitments. Students use this period to organize data, analyze findings, prepare drafts, and respond to feedback from their thesis committee. This course concludes when the student submits the final thesis manuscript for binding according to institutional guidelines.

AT 5999B. Thesis.

This course provides ongoing enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing. Students enroll in this course each term while making progress toward completion of an approved thesis. The course facilitates continued faculty supervision, maintenance of university enrollment requirements, and access to institutional resources that support independent scholarly work. Emphasis is placed on the sustained development, refinement, and documentation of research activities rather than on specific methodological or theoretical commitments. Students use this period to organize data, analyze findings, prepare drafts, and respond to feedback from their thesis committee. This course concludes when the student submits the final thesis manuscript for binding according to institutional guidelines.