M.S. in Biology
The M.S. in Biology program at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a dynamic...
Master of Athletic Training (M.A.T.)
Kearney
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The Master of Athletic Training (M.A.T.) program at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a prestigious and comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in athletic training. What sets this program apart is its accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), a mark of excellence and quality assurance in the field of athletic training education. The CAATE-accredited Master of Athletic Training (M.A.T.) program at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a premier choice for individuals aspiring to become certified athletic trainers. With a strong curriculum, hands-on experience, and CAATE accreditation, this program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful and impactful career in athletic training. Graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of this dynamic and rewarding profession.
Curriculum:
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CAATE Accreditation: Setting the Standard: The CAATE accreditation is a significant aspect of UNK's M.A.T. program. It signifies that the program meets or exceeds the rigorous standards set by CAATE, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that aligns with the latest industry standards and best practices in athletic training.
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Comprehensive Curriculum: The M.A.T. program at UNK offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential topics in sports medicine, injury prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Students gain a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and therapeutic modalities.
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Hands-on Experience: Practical experience is a cornerstone of this program. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including athletic training rooms and clinics, where they can apply their knowledge under the guidance of experienced faculty and clinical preceptors.
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Clinical Rotations: The program includes extensive clinical rotations, allowing students to work with athletes in various settings, such as high schools, colleges, sports teams, and clinical environments. These rotations provide invaluable real-world experience.
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National Certification: Graduates of UNK's M.A.T. program are well-prepared to pursue national certification through the Board of Certification (BOC). Achieving BOC certification is a critical step toward becoming a certified athletic trainer and is often required for employment in the field.
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Career Opportunities: With CAATE accreditation, graduates are highly competitive in the job market. They are well-equipped to pursue careers in various settings, including sports teams, universities, high schools, clinics, and rehabilitation centers.
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Faculty Expertise: UNK boasts a team of dedicated and experienced faculty members who are committed to the success of their students. They provide mentorship, guidance, and up-to-date knowledge in the field.
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Research Opportunities: For those interested in research, UNK offers opportunities to engage in sports medicine and athletic training research projects, contributing to the advancement of the field.
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Professional Development: The program emphasizes professional development, including ethical considerations, effective communication, and interprofessional collaboration, ensuring that graduates are not only skilled clinicians but also compassionate healthcare providers.
Location
Kearney
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 11949
Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs
Application Fees : US$ 45
Academic Requirements:
- Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate programs, students must have completed a relevant bachelor's degree from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement is typically a bachelor's degree with a cumulative GPA of 60% or above.
English Language Proficiency Test:
- IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 79 is required.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of 110 or higher is accepted.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English): A score of 58 or higher in the PTE Academic test is considered.
The University of Nebraska - Kearney (UNK) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to international students to help them pursue their education. Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.
1. UNK International Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to academically talented international students. Awards are based on academic performance, including GPA and standardized test scores.
2. UNK World Citizen Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to recognize international students who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting cultural diversity and global awareness. Applicants must submit an essay detailing their contributions to cultural diversity and their future goals related to global understanding.
3. Athletic Scholarships: UNK offers athletic scholarships for students who excel in sports. International students who are talented athletes may be eligible for these scholarships.
4. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundations, and international organizations. UNK's International Student Services office may provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities.
5. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students at UNK may have the opportunity to work as graduate assistants, which can include teaching, research, or administrative roles. These positions often include a stipend and sometimes a tuition waiver.
6. Financial Aid and On-Campus Employment: International students may also explore part-time on-campus employment opportunities to help cover living expenses. UNK's Financial Aid office can provide information on work-study programs and financial aid options.
7. Exchange Programs: UNK participates in various exchange programs with partner universities. These programs may offer financial benefits and unique cultural experiences.
8. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at UNK offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields of study. Students should inquire with their respective departments about available scholarships.
It's important to note that scholarship eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and award amounts can vary.
The Master of Athletic Training (M.A.T.) program at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in the field of sports medicine and athletic training. Graduates of this program are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to work with athletes of all levels, from high school to professional sports.
1. Athletic Trainer: Many M.A.T. graduates choose to become certified athletic trainers. They work closely with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries related to physical activity. Athletic trainers are employed by sports teams, colleges and universities, high schools, clinics, and hospitals.
2. Sports Medicine Clinics: Graduates can pursue careers in sports medicine clinics, where they work alongside physicians and physical therapists to provide comprehensive care to athletes. They may specialize in injury assessment, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement.
3. Professional Sports Teams: Some M.A.T. graduates find opportunities to work with professional sports teams, such as football, basketball, baseball, and soccer franchises. They play a crucial role in injury prevention and immediate care during games and practices.
4. Collegiate Athletics: Universities and colleges often employ athletic trainers to support their student-athletes. Graduates can work with NCAA and other collegiate athletic programs, providing injury prevention and care services.
5. High School Athletics: Athletic trainers are essential in the high school setting, where they work to ensure the health and safety of student-athletes. This is a rewarding option for those who want to make a positive impact at the grassroots level.
6. Clinical Education: Graduates can also choose to become educators, teaching the next generation of athletic trainers. They can work as clinical instructors or professors in athletic training programs.
7. Industrial Settings: Some M.A.T. professionals find opportunities in industrial or corporate settings, where they focus on employee wellness, injury prevention, and workplace safety.
8. Research and Development: For those interested in advancing the field, careers in research and development are possible. This may involve conducting research on sports-related injuries, rehabilitation techniques, or performance enhancement strategies.
9. Military and Public Safety: Athletic trainers are valuable in military and public safety roles, where they help maintain the fitness and readiness of personnel.
10. Private Practice: Entrepreneurial graduates may establish their private athletic training practices, providing specialized services to athletes and individuals seeking fitness and injury prevention.
11. Continued Education: Some graduates choose to pursue further education, such as doctoral degrees in sports medicine, physical therapy, or related fields, opening up additional career opportunities.
