Master of Athletic Training (MATrg.)

Program Description

The Master of Athletic Training (MATrg) is a professional program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). The MATrg (41 credits) will prepare students to take the Board of Certification, Inc. (BOC) examination and earn the ‘ATC’ credential. Didactic courses and clinical experience courses focus on prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries resulting from physical activity. This is a five-semester program starting in the second eight-week session of the summer term.

Option 1: Five-Year Program. This unique option allows the student to complete a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Master of Athletic Training (MATrg) degree in five years.

• During years 1-3 students follow the NDSU Exercise Science guidelines and curriculum**.

• Students apply to the MATrg program through the NDSU Graduate School spring semester of the third year (typically Junior standing).

• Accepted students begin the MATrg program in July.

• During year 4 students complete both Exercise Science and MATrg courses.The Exercise Science degree is awarded in August.

• During year 5 students complete MATrg courses. Upon successful completion of all program and Graduate School requirements, the MATrg degree is awarded in May.

• This program is recommended for entering freshmen, student-athletes and transfer students interested in earning an athletic training degree at NDSU.

** Transfer students and students who change majors must follow the Exercise Science policies and curriculum.  This may extend the time line for program completion.

Option 2: Two-Year Program. Students who have a conferred Bachelor’s degree in a related field will follow Option 2.

• Students apply to the MATrg program through the NDSU Graduate School.

• Accepted students begin the program in July.

• Years 1 and 2 students follow the MATrg Plan of Study for Option 2

• Upon success complete of all program and Graduate School requirements, the MATrg degree is be awarded in May.

Requirements for 2019-2020 Admission
 

Program Website: https://www.ndsu.edu/hnes/athletic_training_professional/
 

1. Overall GPA of 3.0 at the time of application (3.0 GPA or higher maintained to start of program)
2. The following courses must be completed with a letter grade of “C” or better earned and documented on official transcripts prior to the start of the program in Summer 2019.
   • Human Anatomy and Lab                               1 semester
   • Human Physiology and Lab                            1 semester
   • General Physics and Lab                                1 semester
   • General Chemistry and Lab                            1 semester
   • Biomechanics and/or Kinesiology and Lab     1 semester
   • Exercise Physiology and Lab                          1 semester
   • Medical Terminology                                       1 semester
   • Nutrition                                                           1 semester
   • Psychology                                                      1 semester
3. ​Statement of Purpose: Please include the following information in your statement:
   1. Reasons why you are pursuing graduate studies at NDSU
   2. Explain your interest in pursuing a career in Athletic Training
   3. Background preparation for Athletic Training
   4. Relevant skills and experiences you have acquired
4. Research Writing: Students are required to write a research-based position paper making an evidence-based argument for the use of prophylactic tape or bracing.  A minimum of two (2) references must be included. Three-page maximum.
5. Three (3) letters of recommendation – at least one letter must be from an instructor/professor. They must testify to integrity (i.e. professionalism, communication skills, work ethic) of the student.
6. Documentation of a minimum of 50 hours of observation completed under the direct supervision of a BOC ATC® in an athletic training room setting. 50 hours must be completed within one (1) calendar year of application. Form can be found on MATrg website. Submit signed form under supplemental materials.
7. Documentation of current CPR Training in one of the following:
   1. American Heart Association: BLS Healthcare Provider/BLS Provide
   2. American Red Cross: CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer
   3. American Red Cross: Basic Life Support of Healthcare Providers 
      
      Submit copy of certificate under supplemental materials.
8. International students must meet the following English Language Test score requirements for HNES Graduate Programs:

              TOEFL (pbt): 600         TOEFL (ibt): 100          IELTS: 7            Academic PTE: 68

Application Process

1. Apply on-line through NDSU Graduate School at  https://www.ndsu.edu/gradschool/
2. Select “Apply Online”
3. Enter your information and create an account
4. Select “Athletic Training” as your program of interest
5. Follow steps to complete your application
6. Only completed applications will be reviewed.  This includes letters of recommendations, supplemental materials, and application payment submission.

*Application submission does not constitute acceptance into the program nor is acceptance guaranteed simply upon satisfactory completion of requirements.  Admission requirements are weighted. Overall GPA and interview performance carry the major percentage of the weighting process. Exceptions to the requirements can be made on recommendation by the MATrg Application Committee. 

Admission Acceptance/Denial into the MATrg:

The MATrg application process is a competitive process.  A committee reviews completed graduate school applications and selects applicants to interview.  The committee will set up a time with the student to complete the interview process (Skype or in person).  Students will be notified by the NDSU Graduate School regarding formal MATrg program status.  All NDSU Graduate School Policies will be followed accordingly.

Shannon David, Ph.D., ATC
Ohio University, 2013
Research Interests: Quantification of Intervention Outcomes, Patient- Clinician Relationship

Kara Gange, Ph.D., ATC
North Dakota State University, 2010
Research Interests: Therapeutic Modalities and Diagnostic Ultrasound

Nicole German, Ph.D., ATC
North Dakota State University, 2008
Research Interests: Graston Technique®, Clinical Practice

Katie Lyman, Ph.D., ATC
University of South Florida, 2014
Research Interests: Kinesio Tape®, EMG, Emergency Medicine