HLC Approves Master of Athletic Training

by Clem Boyd, Communication Content Manager – June 5, 2020

New graduate program is slated to begin July 2022.

Cedarville University’s new Master of Athletic Training (M.A.T.) program, including the option for undergraduate students to pursue an accelerated, five-year B.S. in sport medicine leading to the M.A.T., has received approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The HLC Institutional Actions Council announced its decision earlier this spring.

Cedarville University has offered a fully accredited B.A. in Athletic Training since 1994. 

— Thomas Mach

The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) has now mandated that all professional athletic training programs in the U.S. transition to an entry-level master's by 2025. Cedarville University will pursue a degree-level change in its current athletic training program accreditation through CAATE prior to the launch of the M.A.T.

The first cohort of sport medicine students began their studies at Cedarville in fall 2019. They will join graduate students entering the M.A.T. program directly in July 2022.

“Cedarville’s athletic training program has faithfully trained and developed outstanding professionals known for their work ethic, collaborative spirit, and commitment to help others perform to the best of their abilities,” noted Dr. Thomas Mach, vice president of academics. “The growth of this program is a testimony to God’s faithfulness and the commitment of our excellent faculty to equip athletic trainers for professional excellence and impact for the Gospel.”

The M.A.T. program will be housed in the Callan Athletic Center.

Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 4,380 undergraduate, graduate and online students in more than 150 areas of study. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, strong graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings and high student engagement ranking. For more information about the University, visit www.cedarville.edu.