An Athletic Trainer working with a patient in a clinic setting. She is helping to tape her shoulder and arm

Athletic Training

The master's degree in athletic training prepares professionals to treat physically active patients as an integral part of an integrated health care team. As one of the oldest and most respected athletic training programs in the nation, students will graduate prepared to launch their career in this diverse field.

Careers in Athletic Training

  • Intercollegiate Athletic Trainer
  • Occupational Athletic Trainer
  • High School Athletic Trainer
  • Clinical Athletic Trainer
  • Sports Medicine Clinic- Athletic Trainer

Potential Salary

Median Salary $66,614

The median annual wage for Athletic Trainers in April 2024 according to the National Athletic Trainers Association Salary Survey.

Athletic Training Degrees at MSU

Athletic Training, Master of Science

The MS in Athletic Training prepares students to join a dynamic, growing field. As one of the nation’s oldest and most respected programs, it equips graduates to work as part of an integrated health care team, providing injury prevention, emergency care, diagnosis, and rehabilitation for physically active individuals. Students leave ready to launch impactful careers in athletic training.

image of students learning to use tens pads from professor

Teach. Learn. Heal.

"Teach. Learn. Heal." is core to what inspires the Minnesota State University, Mankato Athletic Training program. We pride ourselves on preparing our graduates not only for a successful career, but also to stay current in this fast-changing field through state-of-the art facilities and real-world clinical experiences.

Outstanding National Reputation

The Athletic Training Program is accredited by CAATE and nationally recognized for its high board certification pass rates and a wide network of successful alumni. Watch the video to see what sets us apart.

Athletic Training Video

CAATE Program Information and Outcomes

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Program History

As one of the oldest and most respected athletic training programs in the nation, our program will prepare and train you to treat physically active patients through a mix of academic and real-world experiences.

Career Opportunities

With demand for athletic trainers expected to increase 14% through 2032 now is the right time to explore this growing job market with an education from Minnesota State Mankato's award-winning and nationally-respected program!

Clinical Experience

Gain hands-on experience through diverse clinical rotations, simulations, and standardized patient encounters—starting year one. Train with expert preceptors in settings like Mayo Clinic, Allina Orthopedics, and collegiate athletics.

 

Related Programs

Athletic trainer helping client in the gym.

Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology

The Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology program at Minnesota State Mankato focuses on applied learning and real-world research. Guided by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology’s Code of Ethics, the program prepares graduates for impactful careers in coaching, athletic training, wellness, and sports psychology consulting. With an emphasis on diversity and ethical practice, students gain the skills to thrive in the field.

School gym teacher holding clip board, on the field with students.

Applied Health Science

A career in the health science field is within reach through the Department of Health Science at Minnesota State, Mankato. From undergraduate degrees in alcohol and drug studies to public health or public health education, school health education, pre-occupational therapy, pre-athletic training, or pre-health administration, you'll graduate prepared to make an immediate impact in the health science field through one of these rewarding careers.

Women gym teacher in gym.

Health and Physical Education

The Health and Physical Education major at Minnesota State Mankato is dedicated to preparing future teachers to educate young learners on the critical importance of physical activity. Through classroom learning and real-world teaching experiences, students gain the expertise to design and execute comprehensive physical education programs that encourage students to commit to health and fitness.

Business man talking with women in stadium.

Sport Management

The Sport Management program at Minnesota State Mankato is a specialized business degree that focuses on essential topics such as marketing, event management, facility operations, and financial management within the sports context. The comprehensive program prepares graduates to lead, innovate, and leverage opportunities in the fast-evolving sports management industry.

Department of Athletic Training

College of

Allied Health and Nursing

The College of Allied Health and Nursing is a thriving community dedicated to preparing future leaders in nursing, communication sciences and health-related fields. With state-of-the-art learning centers, real-world experiences, clinical practicums and fieldwork and strong community connections, students gain the hands-on training needed for success. Committed to equity and inclusion, we create an environment where all learners can excel and make a meaningful impact in health and wellness.

Learn More About the College of Allied Health and Nursing