The Master of Athletic Training (MAT) program is designed to enable students to demonstrate, in the classroom and during clinical experiences, that they have achieved levels of comprehension, competency, and proficiency expected of entry-level athletic trainers.
The program's classroom component is divided into two sections: athletic training theory and practice, and clinical experiences. The courses are designed to expose students to information through multiple didactic, laboratory, and clinical experiences. These courses incorporate the Curricular Content Standards set forth by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
All students are required to complete the curriculum in the established sequence of courses.
By combining excellence in teaching, the latest technologies available in education, and outstanding clinical site affiliations, graduates of the program are fully prepared to take and pass the comprehensive Board of Certification (BOC) exam and start their careers as athletic trainers.
Mission
The Master of Athletic Training program prepares graduates to advance the quality of healthcare provided to physically active people through interdisciplinary patient-centered education. The Program is committed to providing students with enriching didactic, clinical, and research experiences that foster communication, critical thinking, leadership, and collaboration. Graduates of the Program will understand the role of the athletic trainer as a member of the healthcare team and will advocate for the advancement of the profession.
Vision
The Master of Athletic Training program aspires to be a nationally recognized leader in athletic training education where diverse students, faculty, and preceptors advance healthcare through innovation in education, research, and clinical practice.
Values
The Master of Athletic Training program faculty values initiative, integrity, compassion, inclusion, and altruism.
The MAT degree program is a two-year full-time professional master's program. The courses are taken in a prescribed sequence over 6 semesters, including 18 credit hours of clinical practice. Clinical practice occurs under the direct supervision of a certified and licensed athletic trainer.
The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) through 2026-27. For information on how this program may prepare students for professional licensure, please visit https://apq.ucf.edu/files/Licensure-Disclosure-CHPS-Master-of-Athletic-Training-June2020.pdf.
