Findlay, Ohio, April 30, 2003 — The University of Findlay’s entry-level master of athletic training program (MAT) has received approval from the Higher Learning Commission, the regional accrediting body for higher education.

The MAT, which becomes the University’s eighth master’s degree program, has two curriculum options. The first is a three-plus-two option, where the student takes three years of the pre-professional phase of the program and two years of the graduate, or professional, phase of the program. The second option is a two-year program for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in any major. All students are required to apply for the professional phase of the program, and admission is competitive.

The clinical component of the master of athletic training program involves hands-on application of skills with a variety of UF sports, high school sports and sports medicine clinics. Students are required to obtain a minimum of 960 clinical hours under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer.

The MAT program has been granted candidacy status, the initial phase of the accreditation process, by the Commission on Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), since September 2001.

Athletic training is recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA) as an allied health (medical) profession that provides comprehensive care to athletic or physically active individuals. An athletic trainer functions as a member of the sports medicine team under the direction of a licensed physician and in cooperation with other health care workers, coaches, administrators and parents. Athletic trainers may by employed in high schools, colleges, sports medicine clinics, professional sports programs and other health care settings. A certified athletic trainer is involved in the prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of athletic injuries and has responsibilities in administration, education and counseling.

For more information on the MAT program at The University of Findlay, contact Donald Fuller, Ph.D., at 419-434-6739 or dfuller@findlay.edu.