Athletic Training 3+2

athletic science students practicing balance

The new 3+2 master’s level Athletic Training program, launched in the fall of 2024, provides a real-world education for students studying to become certified athletic trainers. Students entering the 3+2 program complete the first three years of the Exercise Science major and begin the master’s portion of the program in their fourth year at Millikin.

This program allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and a Master of Science in Athletic Training in just five years. Students take three years of courses in the undergraduate Exercise Science major and spend their senior year taking Athletic Training courses earning their undergraduate in Exercise Science. Students then complete one additional year of master classes and earn their Master of Science in Athletic Training after their fifth year at Millikin.

Click here for the plan of study

  • The mission of the Millikin Athletic Training Program in the School of Exercise Science & Sport is to provide quality education for students wishing to become certified athletic trainers. Through a combination of both didactic and practical learning experiences, the program helps students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for success on the Board of Certification (BOC) examination and for success in the field of Athletic Training and related allied health fields.

    Under the guidance and supervision of a team of certified athletic trainers, you will build and enhance your knowledge and skills regarding the prevention, evaluation, management, and rehabilitation of injuries that occur within active and general populations.

    An Athletic Trainer is a qualified, allied health care professional educated and experienced in the prevention, evaluation, rehabilitation, protection, and management of health care problems associated with diverse populations. Athletic trainers may be employed in a variety of settings including clinics, high schools, universities, youth and profession sports, performing arts, and businesses (https://www.nata.org/professional-interests). In cooperation with physicians and other allied health care personnel, the athletic trainer functions as a vital link between the physically active environment and the medical community. 

    Master Plan of Study

  • The MSAT program at Millikin University is highly competitive with application into the program occurring in the spring of each year. There are two routes for admission into the MSAT program: Early Entry and Post-Baccalaureate. 

    • General Application Deadline: May 31
    • 3.0 GPA Requirement

    1. Early Entry (3+2)

    The Early Entry (3+2) program allows students to earn their master’s degree in five years. Early Entry students enter Millikin University their first-year as Exercise Science majors and complete the application for the master’s program during the spring semester of their third (junior) year. All students applying for the master’s program must complete the Exercise Science bachelor program prerequisite courses listed below. Minimum grade requirements, if any, are denoted for each course.  

    Application deadline for Early Entry: May 1 (of third/junior) year)

    • ES 130 Prevention and Treatment of Injuries (B-)
    • ES 160 Personal and Community Health (C-)
    • ES 206 Foundations and Theory of Health Behavior and Fitness
    • ES 305/306 Physiology of Exercise I/Lab (C-)
    • ES 310 Kinesiology (B-)
    • ES 325 Growth and Motor Development (C-)
    • ES 328 Health Related Nutrition (C-)
    • ES 335 Organization and Administration (C-)
    • ES 409 Biomechanics (B-)
    • ES 410/411 Physiology of Exercise II/Lab (B-)
    • ES 418/419 Principles of Strength/Lab (B-)
    • ES 440 Sport Nutrition (C-)
    • BI 204 Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology 1 (C-)
    • BI 207 Anatomy and Physiology II (C-)
    • CH 114 Fundamentals of Chemistry (C-)
    • PH 111/171 College Physics (C-)
    • PS 130 Introduction to Psychology
    • PS 201 Statistical Methods

    Candidates for admission must also submit: 

    1. Completed Athletic Training Graduate Application
    2. Successful background check
    3. Current resume
    4. Three professional references
    5. Interview with the Athletic Training faculty and staff
    6. Personal statement describing their academic and potential career goals
    7. Proof of 25 observation hours with a certified athletic trainer
    8. Meet with or without accommodations, the MSAT Technical Standards for Admission

     
    2. Post-Baccalaureate

    The Post-Baccalaureate option allows candidates with a completed bachelor’s degree to apply for admission into the MSAT program. Post-Baccalaureate candidate requirements are listed below. 

    Application deadline for Post-Baccalaureate: May 1

    Candidates for admission must submit the following:  

    1. Athletic Training Graduate Application
    2. Official transcripts from an accredited university, with the minimum grade requirements in the prerequisite courses (see list below)
    3. Two letters of recommendation
    4. Successful background check
    5. Current resume
    6. Complete an interview with the Athletic Training faculty and staff
    7. A minimum of 25 observation hours with a certified athletic trainer before enrollment in the program.
    8. Personal statement describing their academic and potential career goals
    9. Meet with or without accommodations, the MSAT Technical Standards for Admission

     Required prerequisite courses for the Post-Baccalaureate applicant include:  

    • Human Based Biology with Lab (4 credit course) (C)
    • Chemistry with lab (4 credit course) (B-)
    • Physics (3 credit course)
    • Psychology (3 credit course)
    • Human Anatomy with Lab (4 credit course) (C)
    • Human Physiology with Lab (4 credit course) (C)
      • Requirements 5 and 6 can be met with two Human Anatomy and Physiology with Lab courses (C)
    • Biomechanics (3 credit course)
    • Exercise Physiology with Lab (4 credit course) (B-)
    • Nutrition (3 credit course) (C)
    • Statistics (3 credit course) 

    Applicants may be admitted on a probationary basis if a course deficiency is determined. In this case, the applicant must complete the deficient course before enrollment in the program. The program reserves the right to review each applicant on a case-by-case basis. 

     

  • Prevention and Treatment of Athletic Injuries

    This is an introductory course emphasizing prevention and treatment of injuries particular to athletics and recreational activities. Rehabilitation procedures are included. (ES130)

    Personal and Community Health

    This is an introductory course surveying topics and issues pertaining to the health/wellness classroom. Developing the wellness concept; physical, mental, social, emotional, environmental, and spiritual well-being are discussed. (ES160)

    Foundations & Theory of Health Behavior & Fitness

    Exercise science encompasses a growing number of subdisciplines, each aimed at integrating the unique demands of movement and the basic science associated with the subdisciplines. The aim of this course is for students to learn the introductory science and basic concepts of exercise, movement and healthy behaviors. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the requirements for career preparation in the major subdisciplines of health, fitness, athletic performance and recreation. Attribute: Health Fitness & Recreation and Health Promotion majors. (ES206)

    Physiology of Exercise I

    Exercise science encompasses a growing number of subdisciplines, each aimed at integrating the unique demands of movement and the basic science associated with the subdisciplines. The aim of this course is for students to learn the introductory science and basic concepts of exercise, movement and healthy behaviors. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the requirements for career preparation in the major subdisciplines of health, fitness, athletic performance and recreation. Attribute: Health Fitness & Recreation and Health Promotion majors. (ES305)

    Physiology of Exercise I Lab

    Taken in conjunction with ES 305. Through demonstration and laboratory experiences, students will gain skills needed to assess acute and chronic physiologically changes that occur in the body in response to exercise. Course and lab cannot be taken independent of one another. (ES306)

    Kinesiology

    Anatomical understanding of the human body, with emphasis on biomechanics, origin, insertion, action, and innervation of the primary muscles used in human movement. (ES310)

    Growth and Motor Development

    Study of child, adolescent, and adult motor development will be the primary focus. Reference to similarities and differences in motor development through the lifespan of the individual will be emphasized. Secondary considerations of the cognitive, social, and emotional development will be included. (ES325)

    Health-Related Nutrition

    This course will explore the role of nutrition in physical fitness and health as professionals strive to promote optimal wellness. Fitness components, testing, and program design will be discussed. Nutritional concepts, nutrient function, and dietary considerations will be explored. (ES328)

    Organization & Administration

    This course focuses on the critical decisions and action steps that students must make in the planning, initiating, and sustaining new health and fitness ventures. The course uses experiential learning as the paradigm for engaging students in discovery and hypotheses testing of their personal business model. (ES335)

    Biomechanics

    The study the physical principles and physics of the human body as it moves during activity, how the neuromuscular system controls human movement, and the mechanical principles that underlie musculoskeletal injury.  (ES409)

    Physiology of Exercise II

    This course is designed to facilitate understanding in how the body reacts and adapts to exercise. Attention to the methods and principles of exercise testing is covered in detail. The course includes practical application of principles through laboratory experiences. Importance and purpose, physiological rationale, methodology, analysis and discussion of exercise, and the human body are all included. (ES410)

    Physiology of Exercise Lab II

    Taken in conjunction with ES410. For the lab part of this course, students will gain knowledge of the acute and chronic changes that physiologically occur in the body in response to exercise through demonstration and laboratory experiences. (ES411)

    Principles of Strength and Conditioning

    This course will examine the basics of training design for personal fitness and athletic enhancement. Main topics, which are applied, are anatomy and physiology, testing and evaluation, exercise techniques, and program design. Students who complete this course will have sufficient knowledge to pursue a certification as a personal trainer from accredited fitness organizations. (ES418)

    Principles of Strength and Conditioning Lab

    Taken in conjunction with ES 418. For the lab part of this course, students will gain knowledge and practical experience in designing and implementing strength training programming through demonstration and laboratory experiences. (ES419)

    Sport Nutrition

    This course will look at the interactive nature between nutrition, sport, and sport performance in all athletes and proficiency levels. Sports nutrition basics, screening and assessment, sports nutrition across the lifespan, and sport-specific nutrition guidelines are reviewed and discussed. (ES440)

    College Physics with lab

    A study of the nature of physics, specifically focusing on kinematics, dynamics, and rotational motion. Three lectures and one laboratory period each week. Primarily for students pursuing degrees in pre-health professional programs and biology (interested students should consult with their advisor and the pre-professional advisor before taking this course). (PY111/117)

    Fundamentals of Chemistry with lab

    This course is intended for students majoring in nursing, athletic training or those looking to satisfy the natural science with laboratory requirement of the Arts and Sciences component of the Millikin Program of Student Learning. The atoms-first approach establishes the foundation for CH203 and CH205 ? Essentials of Organic and Biochemistry. Topics will be organized into four units: (1) atomic and molecular structure; (2) structure-property relationships; (3) basic reaction chemistry; and (4) data handling and manipulation. Concepts covered will be tied to specific health topics. This course cannot be applied toward earning a degree in the Natural Sciences or other degree with a pre-professional emphasis. (CH114)

    Introductory Psychology

    Introduction to study of behavior and mental processes derived from application of scientific method. Topics range from biological bases of behavior, levels of consciousness, development, memory, abnormality to motivation and emotion. Examination of psychology as a profession and its relevance to everyday life. (PS130)

    Statistical Methods in Behavioral Science

    Application of elementary statistical methods to psychological and sociological data. Lecture and laboratory course in techniques of descriptive and inferential statistics and research design. (PS201)

    Anatomy and Physiology

    This is the first of a two-semester sequence intended for biology majors in the allied health track, and for nursing and athletic training majors. This course provides a fundamental consideration of primary tissues and the skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine and integumentary systems of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the correlation between structure and function, physiological processes, and the organization of the human body from the chemical level to the organismal level. Laboratory activities include the use of anatomical dissection of cats, physiological experimentation, teaching models, and group work to facilitate learning. (BI204 or BI206)

    Anatomy and Physiology II

    A continuation course of Biology 206 covering cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems of the human body. (BI207)

  • ES501 Applied Clinical Anatomy (3) 

    This course examines the relationship of the human body and anatomical structures and systems. Special focus is given to these systems' roles in exercise performance, biomechanical skill development and injury prevention/rehabilitation. Gross anatomical identification of specific bones, landmarks, origins, insertions, actions, joint structures, nerves, vessels, and organs will be the primary focus. 

     ES502 Emergency Procedures in Athletic Training (3) 

    This course is designed to cover in-depth Basic Life Support Skills. Topics addressing prevention, recognition, and management of life-threatening and/or severe injury/illness are included. Application of skills that include environmental, CPR/AED, airway management, immobilization, bleeding control and sudden illness management are also addresses. Students will be certified in Basic Life Support. 

    ES503 Evidence Based Research (3) 

    This course introduces research methodology and data analysis related to evidence-based practice in athletic training. Topics include formulating clinical questions, appraising existing research and understanding levels of evidence. This course also introduces students to a variety of statistical measures commonly used in athletic training research. 

    ES504 Professional Practice in Athletic Training (3) 

    This course covers the roles and responsibilities of an athletic trainer as well as the history, governance structure and regulation of athletic training practices. This course will also cover introductory concepts including ethical behavior, evidence-based practice, basic evaluation skills, and documentation. Instruction and practical application of taping, wrapping, bracing techniques, and protective equipment is also included. 

    ES505 Athletic Training Practicum I (2) 

    This is the first of four laboratory courses required of MSAT students. Under the direct supervision of a board-certified athletic trainer/clinical preceptor, the students will observe and begin to participate in the organization and administration of the athletic training environment and the care given to athletes. Students will gain an understanding of the daily operations of the athletic training room and learn entry-level skills in athletic training focusing on risk management and injury prevention, acute care of injury and illness, and basic assessment and evaluation skills. 

    ES506 Clinical Integration I (1) 

    This course is designed to refine clinical decision-making skills through the practice and evaluation of specific athletic training proficiencies. Students will integrate classroom/didactic instruction into the clinical settings to progress to a greater level of practical application. Skill integration will be developed and evaluated under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor. 

    ES511 Lower Extremity Evaluation (3) 

    This course is designed to provide students with an intensive, thorough study of orthopedic and neurovascular evaluation techniques used by sports medicine professionals to assess orthopedic and athletic related injuries to the lower back, pelvis, and lower extremities sustained by physically active individuals. Lecture, demonstration, and practical experience will be the instructional methods used to help students gain knowledge and confidence in their orthopedic and athletic injury assessment techniques.

    ES512 Upper Extremity Evaluation (3) 

    This course is designed to provide students with an intensive, thorough study of orthopedic and neurovascular evaluation techniques used by sports medicine professionals to assess orthopedic and athletic related injuries to the spine, head, and upper extremities sustained by physically active individuals. Lecture, demonstration, and practical experience will be the instructional methods used to help students gain knowledge and confidence in their orthopedic and athletic injury assessment techniques.

    ES514 Therapeutic Interventions I (3) 

    This course introduces the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, implement, and evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic modalities in the treatment of injuries and illnesses of athletes and physically active individuals. This course will also introduce pharmacological medications commonly prescribed for these same individuals.

    ES515 Athletic Training Practicum II (2) 

    This is the second of four laboratory courses required of MSAT students. Under the direct supervision of a board-certified athletic trainer/clinical preceptor, students will continue to develop and refine clinical skills in injury assessment, therapeutic modality selection/use and proper use of medications.

    ES516 Clinical Integration II (1) 

    This course is designed to build upon clinical decision-making skills through the refinement of specific athletic training proficiencies. Students will integrate classroom instruction into clinical settings to progress to a greater level of practical application. Skill integration will be developed and evaluated under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor.

    ES520 Immersive Clinical Experience (8) 

    This 8-10-week clinical rotation provides the athletic training student the opportunity to gain experience in specific settings of clinical practice. Settings of interest are chosen from a variety of practice including but not limited to; out-patient rehabilitation, orthopedics, primary care, emergency and acute care, dance/performing arts medicine, industrial and occupational health, professional sport medicine, and athletic performance. This course is designed to facilitate synthesis and integration of knowledge, skills, and clinical decision making into actual patient care. Students are required to gain a minimum of 240 hours of patient care experience with physically active individuals.

    ES521 General Medical Conditions in Athletes (3) 

    This course provides the student a thorough understanding of injury, illness, and/or disease of various body systems; specific understanding of medical diagnostics, interventions, and participation considerations for the athletic population are addressed.

    ES522 Administration of Athletic Training (3) 

    This course provides the student with a focus on the professional management and administrative issues in athletic training. Topics will include management and supervision of personnel and financial resources as well as the planning, designing, developing, organizing, implementing, directing, and evaluating an athletic training healthcare program and facility. Current issues in athletic training related to professional conduct and practice will be discussed, along with legal concerns, risk management, and healthcare payor/insurance.

    ES524 Therapeutic Intervention II (3) 

    This course introduces the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, implement, and evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic exercise in the treatment of injuries and illnesses of athlete and physically active individuals.

    ES525 Athletic Training Practicum III (2) 

    This is the third of four laboratory courses required for MSAT students. The focus of this course is to evaluate the skill level of students in the following areas: evaluation/diagnosis and referral options for general medical conditions, selection and proper use of the appropriate pharmacological agents, and contemporary rehabilitation techniques for a variety of conditions.

    ES526 Clinical Integration III (1) 

    This is the third in a series of courses designed to build upon clinical decision-making skills through the refinement of specific athletic training proficiencies. Students will integrate classroom instruction into clinical settings to progress to a greater level of practical application. Skills will be developed and evaluated under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor. 

    ES531 Clinical Integration IV (2) 

    This course provides a comprehensive approach to advanced orthopedic concepts associated with the physically active individuals across the lifespan. The focus will be on surgical techniques, radiological concepts and interpretation, and advanced treatment procedures used in diverse orthopedic settings. Students will integrate classroom instruction into clinical settings to progress to a greater level of practical application. Skills will be developed and evaluated under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor. This course serves as a culminating clinical experience in the MSAT program.

    ES532 Seminar in Athletic Training (2) 

    This course is a culminating experience in athletic training that will provide a focus and comprehensive review of the athletic training foundational and specific knowledge regarding the domains of athletic training. This course will guide the students toward developing strategies that address critical thinking and test taking skills necessary for success on the Board of Certification (BOC) examination.

    ES535 Research Capstone (3) 

    This course is designed to provide a research experience for the athletic training student. The student will refine skills learned throughout the curriculum to utilize evidence-based practice, read critically, and to write and communicate effectively. The student will choose a research capstone project which will culminate in the dissemination of information through a variety of venues.

    ES534 Therapeutic Intervention III (3)

    This course will focus on the development of communication strategies, techniques, and psychological interventions commonly used in athletic training. Recognition and management strategies of mental health conditions, as well as the role of the athletic trainer in response to events and return to play. The focus will be on the application of communication strategies and development of management and referral strategies. The course will also address cultural competence in patient care and the role of various mental healthcare providers that compromise the mental health referral network.

    ES535 Athletic Training Practicum IV (2) 

    The fourth of four laboratory courses required for MSAT students. The focus of this course is to evaluate the skill level of students in the final semester of the program. The course will focus on the comprehensive nature of the entire clinical program.

  • The MSAT is currently seeking accreditation for their new athletic training program and is not accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). The institution will be submitting a self-study to begin the accreditation process in July 2025. Submission of the self-study and completion of a site review does not guarantee that the program will become accredited. Students who graduate from the program prior to accreditation WILL NOT be eligible to sit for the credentialing examination for athletic trainers and will not be eligible for licensure in most states.

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