Athletic Training FAQs | Colorado Mesa University

As described by the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA),

"Athletic trainers (ATs) are highly qualified, multi-skilled health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to provide preventative services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions. Athletic trainers work under the direction of a physician as prescribed by state licensure statutes. The NATA Code of Ethics states the principles of ethical behavior that should be followed in the practice of athletic training.

Athletic trainers are sometimes confused with personal trainers. There is, however, a large difference in the education, skill set, job duties and patients of an athletic trainer and a personal trainer. The athletic training academic curriculum and clinical training follows the medical model. Athletic trainers must graduate from an accredited baccalaureate or master’s program, and 70% of ATs have a master’s degree. Learn more about the education of athletic trainers.

The Guide to Athletic Training Services (pdf) describes the qualifications of athletic trainers and the clinical tasks they routinely perform in the delivery of quality health care."

The application cycle for Summer 2025 admission is open! You can view application details HERE.

As our clinical sites are continually changing, we encourage you to refer to the Clinical Site and Preceptor Information page for an updated list of our current preceptors and clinical sites.

All admission requirements and prerequisite course requirements are listed here.

**NEW: All MSAT Students receive IN-STATE GRADUATE TUITION! Students classified as Out-of-State students will be given a waiver and will pay In-State Tuition costs for all graduate level courses**

Details on tuition and additional costs for the program can be found here.

The Master of Science in Athletic Training Program will matriculate one new class every year. Courses will begin mid summer. The start date for the summer 2025 cohort will be around June 21, 2025.

Yes, you are able to submit your application for the Master of Science in Athletic Training Program while courses are still in progress. It is normal to have 2-3 prerequisites still pending at the time of application, however, all prerequisite courses must be completed by the start of the program.

All transcripts for outstanding prerequisite coursework must be received by CMU no later than the first day of classes

We recommend when tracking your hours, record the location, supervisor, contact information, your position, and a short description and the number of hours you completed at each location. When applying, you will put your total hours either within your resume/CV or within your Statement of Intent.

No, applicants will be evaluated on overall GPA, science GPA and prerequisite GPAs in addition to observation hours, letters of recommendation, statement of intent and ties to Western Colorado.
Additional information on admission requirements and prerequisite course requirements can be found in the Admission Requirements page.