Program Overview

DPT to MSAT Bridge Program

Introduction

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) to Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) Bridge Program is designed for DPTs who desire to become a certified athletic trainer. This program will advance students with knowledge and skills in the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of the physically active population.

Program Overview

The Bridge Program within the Division of Athletic Training is a 14-month, hybrid program designed exclusively for Doctor of Physical Therapy students or licensed DPT practitioners who are seeking certification as an athletic trainer. This accelerated program recognizes the clinical foundation from the DPT program and builds upon it with focused education in injury prevention, acute and emergency care, and healthcare delivery in sports medicine environments. Graduates emerge prepared to provide comprehensive care for physically active populations across secondary school, collegiate, performing arts, tactical, and professional settings.

Program Structure

The program is delivered through a flexible combination of asynchronous coursework, on-campus workshops, and immersive clinical experiences. Students engage in advanced clinical reasoning, sideline management, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice.

Curriculum

The program consists of the following courses:

• Summer 1
  • AT 501: Risk Management & Emergency Care for Athletes (3 credits)
  • AT 511: Prevention and Protective Interventions (1 credit)
  • AT 624: Therapeutic Exercise II (2 credits)
  • AT 698: Imaging, Casting and Bracing (3 credits)
  • AT 535: Proficiencies for Bridge Program (1 credit)
  • Total Semester Credits: 10
• Fall 1
  • AT 670: Healthcare Administration (2 credits)
  • AT 571: Sports Nutrition (3 credits)
  • AT 581: Athletic Training Clinical Experience I (4 credits)
  • AT 595: Special Topics for Bridge Program (2 credits)
  • Total Semester Credits: 11
• Spring 1
  • AT 534: Neurocognitive Assessment & Treatment of Head Injuries (1 credit)
  • AT 582: Athletic Training Clinical Experience II (4 credits)
  • AT 533: Clinical Medicine (3 credits)
  • AT 711: Theories and Practice of Conditioning Athletes (2 credits)
  • Total Semester Credits: 10
• Summer 2
  • AT 692: Athletic Training Clinical Experiences for Dual Majors (4 credits)
  • AT 774: Senior Seminar (1 credit)
  • AT 799: Independent Study (2 credits)
  • Total Semester Credits: 7
• Total Program Credits: 38

Faculty

The accomplished and caring faculty serve as mentors beyond the classroom. As a team, they prepare students to serve and enhance their role as DPT with the additional skills gained with a MSAT degree. Students benefit from small class sizes that enable faculty members to provide individualized attention and nurture academic and professional development.

Program Location

The program is offered at the Winchester Main Campus.