Admissions Process
The SDSU MSAT is designed for motivated individuals who are ready to engage in a rigorous, collaborative, and professionally focused graduate experience. We intentionally select students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, clinical potential, integrity, and a commitment to contributing to the athletic training profession.
Our program emphasizes clinical reasoning, interprofessional collaboration, and leadership development. We value students who are reflective, resilient, and eager to grow within a supportive yet challenging learning environment.
We are committed to mentoring driven students who are prepared to challenge themselves, support their peers, and lead with integrity. We look forward to learning more about you and your aspirations in athletic training.
| Course Pre-Requisites | SDSU Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Human Anatomy with Lab and Human Physiology OR Anatomy and Physiology I and II with Lab | BIOL 212; BIOL 261 or BIOL 336 |
| Biomechanics | ENS 306 |
| Exercise Physiology with Lab | ENS 304 & ENS 304L |
| General, Abnormal, or Developmental Psychology | PSY 101, PSY 350, or PSY 230 |
| Introductory or General Statistics | STAT 119, BIOL 215, PSY 280, or SOC 201 |
| Fundamentals of Nutrition | NUTR 201 |
| Introduction to Athletic Training with a lab | ENS 265 & 265L |
| Introductory or General Chemistry | CHEM 100 or CHEM 200 |
| Introductory or General Physics; Lab is not required | PHYS 180A |
| Introductory Weight Training | ENS 104a or b |
| Recommended Courses | SDSU Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Applied or Clinical Kinesiology | ENS 303 |
| Medical Terminology | No SDSU Equivalent |
| Research Methods | PSY 301, ENS 601, or PH 607 |
- Classes can be in progress at time of application but must be completed prior to start of Program
- Prerequisite coursework must be completed with "C" or better
- A grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 in the last 60 units of coursework
- Course Descriptions for SDSU Courses
- Undergraduate degree earned at an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association
- A kinesiology or exercise science degree is recommended.
- Observation Hours (PDF)
- Verification of at least 100 total hours of observation under a Certified Athletic Trainer in two or more settings (e.g., university/college, high school, and/or clinic) within two years of the application date.
- Emergency Cardiac Care (ECC) Certification
- You can see these requirements on the BOC website.
- Technical Standards for Admission (PDF)
- All students applying for admission to MSAT must agree to meet specified mental, physical, and cross cultural communication abilities to meet standards of the program, or have approval for appropriate accommodation as outlined by the Student Ability Success Center (SASC).
Step 1 – Apply to SDSU
BY Dec. 1, 2026:
- Submit application via CalState Apply
- Application opens on October 1, 2026
- Application fee of $70
BY Dec. 1, 2026:
Submit to Graduate Admissions Office:
Office of Graduate Admissions
Student Services West 100
5500 Campanile Dr.
San Diego, CA 92182-7455
- Official transcripts
- If a foreign applicant, submit TOFEL score or English Placement score (SDSU Institution Code- 4682)
- Questions regarding international student admission should be directed to: [email protected] or visit the International Student Center
Step 2 – Apply to MSAT
BY Dec. 1, 2026
Submit all components via ATCAS
ATCAS charges $99 for the first program you apply to and $55 for each additional program.
- Supplemental application form;
- Prerequisite course checklist;
- Clinical observation hours form (PDF);
- Program disclosure form (PDF);
- Technical standards for admission (PDF);
- Professional Essay (400–500 words) describing your professional goals and your understanding of the evolving challenges facing the athletic training profession. We encourage you to thoughtfully reflect on how your experiences and perspective distinguish you as a candidate. Strong essays demonstrate clarity of purpose, professionalism, and readiness for graduate-level study.
- Current Résumé highlighting your academic background, clinical experiences, leadership involvement, certifications, and relevant accomplishments.
- Video Statement (2–3 minutes) introducing yourself and sharing why you are pursuing a career in athletic training. We are particularly interested in what draws you to the SDSU MSAT program and how you would contribute to a learning environment grounded in collaboration, inclusivity, and professional excellence. This is your opportunity to demonstrate both your passion and your professionalism.
- Names and email addresses of two references, one academic and one clinical, who can speak to your readiness for graduate study and your potential as a developing clinician. They will receive an electronic request via ATCAS to complete a recommendation on your behalf.
Questions about the MSAT application process may be directed to:
Margo Greicar, EdD, ATC
Director, Master of Science in Athletic Training
[email protected]
Questions about applying to SDSU may be directed to:
Prospective Student Center
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-7455
(619)-594-6336