From student to practitioner

While many students may not know the exact profession they want to pursue after graduation, those seeking a master’s degree in athletic training at the University of Georgia have a better idea than most after engaging in a multitude of hands-on clinical immersion opportunities.

As part of the master of science in athletic training program in the Mary Frances Early College of Education, every student must complete an eight-week rotation at a local high school under the guidance of a licensed athletic trainer.

“When we send these students out for these clinical immersions, we want them to get the best hands-on opportunity they can get,” said Bud Cooper, a clinical professor emeritus, who directed clinical learning experiences in the Department of Kinesiology for 16 years. “Keeping the number of students assigned at each clinical site to a low number, ensures that they’re getting that opportunity.”

During their rotations, students gain valuable clinical experience at local schools, including those in the Clarke County School District (CCSD), to acquire a variety of clinical skills, including injury assessment or treatment, injury rehabilitation, healthcare administration, and injury prevention.

These skills are developed in a cooperative learning environment with CCSD student-athletes and are vital to learning sports medicine techniques necessary for future athletic trainers.

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