Program Mission: The mission of the professional Master of Science in Athletic Training at the University of Kentucky is to effectively prepare entry-level athletic trainers, who are life-long learners and servants to their communities, for employment and/or pursuit of advanced education by providing a comprehensive education in a collaborative, evidence-based, patient-centered environment that includes robust educational, scholarly, clinical, and service opportunities.
For Program Goals and Policies, please see the Program website: https://www.uky.edu/chs/athletic-training/professional/caate
Program Information and Outcomes: https://caate.net/Program-Information-and-Outcomes/634
Accreditation Information: The University of Kentuky Professional Master of Science in Athletic Training program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) located at 6850 Austin Center Blvd, Suite 11, Austin, TX 78731-3184. The program will have its next comprehensive review during the 2026-2027 academic year.
Licensure Information
Most states require anyone engaging in athletic training or using an athletic trainer title to have a state license. License requirements vary by state, but most states require the BOC national certification to be earned. This certification requires graduation from a CAATE accredited program.
The University of Kentucky of Professional Master of Science in Athletic Training program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and meets educational requirements to obtain licensure in Kentucky and other U.S. states that require a license or certification to practice as an athletic trainer. Students interested in using the degree to seek licensure in another state or territory should visit the Out-of-State Students page to learn more about Athletic Trainng licensure requirements in the U.S. state or territory where they may be interested in pursuing licensure. Licensure requirements are subject to change.
Admission Requirements
Must have a minimum overall GPA >3.0 (out of 4.0)
Must have a minimum grade of C in all prerequisite coursework:
- Biomechanics (3 credits)
- Exercise Physiology (3 credits)
- Human Physiology (3 credits)
- Human Anatomy (3 credits)
- Can be combined Anatomy and Physiology (I and II, 6 credits total)
- Medical Terminology (1 credit or equivalent)
- Statistics (3 credits)
- Basic Emergency Care/First Aid (1 or more credit on academic transcript OR completion proof of training through other mechanism, e.g. Red Cross)
- Psychology (3 credits)
- Physics (3 credits)
- Biology (3 credits)
- Chemistry (4 credits including lab)
Recommended but not required:
- Introduction to Athletic Training
- Research Methods/Scientific Writing
100 observational hours
- At least 50 completed in common athletic training settings
Personal Statement with responses to the following prompts (200-300 words each)
- When you investigated the UK AT Program, what aspects of the program aligned with your personal values and goals? What components interested you the most?
- Tell us about the greatest challenge you have faced and how you have addressed the challenege.
Three Professional References
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
UK undergraduate students must demonstrate ability to satisfy completion of UK Bachelor’s degree requirements or selection of the UK-CAT 3+2 option.
Undergraduate students outside of UK must demonstrate progression to graduate prior to the beginning of the Professional Program.
Degree Requirements
The Professional Master of Science in Athletic Training Program is a 76 credit hour program.
A list of required courses can be found here: https://www.uky.edu/chs/athletic-training/professional/curriculum
In addition to completion of all required coursework, students must pass the comprehensive final exam with a 70% or better in the final semester.
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