University of Wisconsin–Madison

Overview

The Master’s in Athletic Training at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to assess, treat, and rehabilitate athletic injuries and illnesses. This professional program emphasizes evidence-based practices, emergency response, and patient-centered rehabilitation through hands-on clinical experiences.

• Degree: Master’s in Athletic Training
• Program Duration: 24 months
• Delivery Method: On-campus with supervised clinical practice components
• Key Focus Areas: Injury prevention, emergency care, clinical evaluation, therapeutic intervention, and rehabilitation
• Clinical Training: Structured clinical practice in various settings
• Language of Instruction: English
• Accepted English Tests: Duolingo English Test, TOEFL iBT, IELTS
• Application Materials: Transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement

What you'll study

The program's curriculum integrates graduate-level coursework with practical, supervised clinical training. Students will advance from foundational studies in sciences and clinical reasoning to complex therapeutic decision-making and wellness-oriented care.

• Anatomical Athletic Training
• Emergency Procedures for Athletic Trainers
• Athletic Training
• Practice in Athletic Training
• Public Health, Policy, and Practice
• Evaluation and Therapeutic Interventions
• Clinical Medicine in Athletic Training
• Enhancing Performance and Wellness

Clinical Learning: The program includes structured clinical experiences that enhance skills in assessment, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and professional communication.

Capstone/Thesis: Confirm specific thesis or capstone requirements with the program office, as professional master’s programs may utilize a practice-based assessment model.

Entry requirements

Academic Requirements

• Minimum Qualification: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a regionally accredited institution
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• GPA: A minimum GPA is required; specific threshold may vary—please verify with the graduate admissions office

English Requirements

• Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 125
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92
• IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0

Other Requirements

• Observation: Complete observation hours with two Certified Athletic Trainers in different clinical settings
• Letters of Recommendation: At least three
• Personal Statement: Respond to prompts provided in the graduate application

Tip: Submit all documents early and ensure that your observation hours and clinical exposure meet the program’s requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from the University of Wisconsin–Madison's Athletic Training program are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and clinical practice. Opportunities may include working with professional sports teams, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities, where they can apply their expertise in injury prevention and management.

Post-study work options for graduates may depend on individual circumstances, including citizenship and visa status, providing avenues for practical experience in the field.