UCCS to offer master’s in athletic training degree

UCCS will soon offer students the opportunity to earn a master's degree in athletic training following approval by the University of Colorado Board of Regents.

Meeting at UCCS Sept. 11, the Regents unanimously approved a proposal by UCCS leaders to offer a Master of Science in Athletic Training through the Department of Health Sciences in the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences. The degree is considered a professional preparation degree leading to eligibility for national certification as an athletic trainer. Students enrolling in the new degree program come in as undergraduates and in their third year move to the graduate program in athletic training. Students will earn bachelor's and master's degrees in five years.

"With the emphasis to provide preventive services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions for athletes of all ages and abilities in our community, this new degree is a good fit," Nancy Smith, dean, Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences, said. "The curriculum is designed to incorporate model athletic training practices and inter-professional cooperation among various health care disciplines."

Demand for certified athletic trainers is expected to be strong. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 21 percent growth for athletic trainers between 2012 and 2022. Additionally, a survey of current UCCS students indicated strong interest in the program. UCCS does not currently offer professional athletic training education and there here are only 31 professional master's athletic training programs in the country. UCCS will have the only program in Colorado.

UCCS leaders will implement the new program for the fall 2018 semester. Members of the CU Board of Regents discussed the new degree proposal June 23 and asked UCCS administrators detailed questions about the program before giving it tentative support. The Regents voted 9-0at the Sept.-11 meeting to formally approve the new degree.

Students interested in learning more about the degree should Amanda Elder, associate professor, Helen and Arthur E. Johnson, Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences, 255-4315, [email protected].