3+2 B.S. Movement Science Pre-Athletic Training Concentration
Master of Science in Athletic Training

Students and faculty in an athletic training class practicing how to stabilize a knee.

Fast-Track Your Future in Athletic Training

Turn your interest in movement, sports, and helping others into a career in athletic training. Westfield State University’s accelerated 3+2 Athletic Training pathway gives motivated students the opportunity to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Movement Science and a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) in just five years.

Designed for students preparing to become athletic trainers, this combined-degree pathway connects undergraduate study with advanced, hands-on professional preparation. You’ll build a strong foundation in movement science while developing the knowledge and practical skills needed to evaluate injuries, support recovery, and help people stay active and perform at their best.

With a streamlined path from undergraduate study to graduate-level athletic training education, you can take the next step toward a rewarding career while making the most of your time at Westfield State.

Program Highlights

  • Day-time program
  • Earn two degrees in five years.
  • Begin MSAT coursework during your senior year
  • Gain nearly 700 hours of hands-on experience through clinical rotations
  • Study movement, injury prevention, and recovery

Your Path to a Career in Athletic Training

  • Student practicing ankle taping techniques with faculty guidance.

    Save Time with an Accelerated Pathway

    Complete your undergraduate Movement Science requirements in three years and begin graduate-level Athletic Training coursework during your senior year. Graduate credits count toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees, helping qualified students earn two degrees in just five years.

  • Student holding weights during an athletic training class while working with a faculty member.

    Hands-On Athletic Training Education

    Develop practical skills through coursework and applied learning experiences. Build your knowledge of injury prevention, evaluation, rehabilitation, patient care, and human movement as you prepare for the athletic training profession.

  • Students in the Athletic Training program work under the supervision of a faculty member.

    Career Preparation in Athletic Training

    Build a strong foundation in Movement Science before advancing to graduate-level Athletic Training study. With guidance from experienced faculty, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills to take the next step toward a career as an athletic trainer.

What Can You Do With a Master of Science in Athletic Training?

A Master of Science in Athletic Training can prepare you for a career helping people prevent injuries, recover, and safely return to the activities they love. Athletic trainers work with more than just sports teams. You can find them in a variety of healthcare, workplace, and community settings. Here are some of the opportunities available with this degree taken from the National Athletic Trainers Association website:

  • College/University
  • Secondary Schools
  • Clinic and Hospital
  • Professional Sports
  • Performing Arts
  • Public Safety
  • Military
  • Occupational Health
Student athlete smiling on the athletics field.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • Save

    time and cost

  • Apply

    in your junior year

  • Start

    Graduate courses senior year

Faculty Support from Undergraduate to Graduate Study

At Westfield State University, experienced faculty support you throughout your 3+2 Athletic Training pathway. From building a strong foundation in Movement Science to beginning graduate-level coursework for your Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT), you’ll receive personalized guidance as you progress toward your academic and career goals.

Faculty help you connect classroom learning with hands-on athletic training experiences while developing essential professional skills. Along the way, you’ll build relationships with instructors who understand your goals and are committed to helping you grow as a student and aspiring athletic trainer.

Contact Us

Dr. Paul Higgins
Program Director

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the 3+2 B.S. Movement Science Pre-Athletic Training Concentration work?

Westfield State University’s 3+2 pathway allows qualified students to earn a B.S. in Movement Science and a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) in five years. Students complete the Movement Science major with a Pre-Athletic Training concentration during their first three years and begin graduate-level Athletic Training courses during their senior year. These graduate credits count toward both degrees, saving students time and tuition costs.

Students apply to the MSAT program during the spring semester of their junior year. Admission is competitive and not guaranteed. Students who are not admitted can work with their academic advisor to complete the Movement Science degree through another concentration. They may also complete any remaining MSAT prerequisites and apply to the graduate program at a later date.

What are the admission requirements?
  • Successfully complete the required Pre-Athletic Training curriculum (96 credits).
  • Have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher at the time of application.
  • Apply by January 15 of the junior year.
  • Complete the application form and accompanying materials for the graduate application including:
    • Statement of interest in the program (narrative statement).
    • Three letters of recommendation.
    • The GRE and $50 application fee are waived for these applicants.

Students will be notified of acceptance into the program by March 1 of their junior year. Students will also be assigned the graduate program administrator as their academic advisor to ensure they are taking the appropriate coursework.

What are the costs?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. Cost of courses taken at the graduate level differ from undergraduate tuition.

Who can I contact with questions?

For questions about the 3+2 program contact:

Dr. Paul Higgins, Program Director
phiggins@westfield.ma.edu

For questions about applying to Westfield State University:

Undergraduate Admissions
413-579-3040
admissions@westfield.ma.edu

Graduate Admissions
413-572-8461
graduate@westfield.ma.edu

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3+2 B.S. Movement Science Pre-Athletic Training Concentration