Athletic Training

Athletic Training master's program overview

As the athletic training profession changes — requiring a master’s degree to become a certified athletic trainer — SUNY Cortland’s strong reputation in the discipline will stay consistent.

This two-year, full-time program welcomes new students in July. The MSAT is a cohort-based program with specific course sequencing that cannot be completed on a part-time basis. Students enrolled in the program should expect daily on-campus coursework. Additionally, clinical experiences may be on or off campus including some evening, weekend, and preseason obligations. Students admitted to the MSAT program are not allowed to participate in intercollegiate athletics at SUNY Cortland.

At SUNY Cortland, you will discover: 

• Extensive hands-on clinical experience in a variety of settings, from high schools to college teams spanning all divisions;
• Athletic training courses taught by practicing athletic trainers;
• Introductions to conferences, including SUNY Cortland’s annual Dr. Bert Mandelbaum Sports Medicine Symposium; and
• Strong preparation for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam.

The Kinesiology Department prides itself on the personal approach faculty members take with graduate students. We place a special emphasis on preparing athletic trainers to be the best at their profession.

Follow @SUNYCortlandATP on Instagram to stay connected.

Accredited at the highest level

SUNY Cortland’s Master of Science in Athletic Training is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), located at 6850 Austin Center Blvd., Suite 100, Austin, TX 78731-3184. The program will have its next comprehensive review during the 2027-2028 academic year.

CAATE Program Information and Outcomes Page

Career potential

SUNY Cortland-trained athletic trainers are sought across a variety of work settings:

• High schools and colleges
• Professional and Olympic sports
• Doctor’s offices and hospitals
• Sports medicine, rehab, fitness and wellness clinics
• Military academies, police and fire departments
• Performing arts venues

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