UWM to offer accelerated, dual degree program in athletic training with Wisconsin Lutheran College

MILWAUKEE __ The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has signed the first of a planned series of agreements with area universities and colleges to provide an accelerated, dual degree program for students interested in pursuing a career in athletic training.

Through a new partnership with Wisconsin Lutheran College, students will be able to earn both a bachelor of science degree in sport and exercise science from Wisconsin Lutheran and a  master of science degree in athletic training (MSAT) from UWM’s College of Health Sciences in just five years. It takes six years to finish both degrees in the traditional format.

Through the dual degree program, called a 3+2 program, WLC students complete three years of undergraduate coursework and then transition to UWM for their last two years.

The accelerated dual degree program has been available to UWM undergraduate kinesiology students since last year. The first UWM students enrolled will begin their professional phase (the last two years) this summer.

UWM hopes to sign similar agreements with other partners, making the accelerated program available to a wider pool of college students.

“We are thrilled to establish this partnership, giving WLC students the opportunity to save tuition expenses and enter the workforce sooner,” said Jennifer Earl-Boehm, UWM’s MSAT program director. “Expanding this program to other colleges in the future will give more students from Wisconsin and the region access to MSAT education in the diverse urban environment.”

The demand for professional athletic trainers is expected to grow 19% through 2028, according to the the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While a bachelor’s degree and licensure/certification are typically required, many employers prefer master’s-prepared athletic trainers.

“This dual degree program positions our graduates for future career advancement and leadership right out of the gate,” said Rachel Kuehl, head of WLC’s sport & exercise science program.

More information on the program for UWM students is available at uwm.edu/healthsciences/academics/accelerated-bachelors-kinesiology-masters-athletic-training/. For WLC students, see details at www.wlc.edu/Dual-Degree-Opportunities/.

About the UWM College of Health Sciences
The College of Health Sciences empowers, engages and educates health professionals, scientists and researchers to be leaders in their fields. The College offers the largest number of health-related degree programs in Wisconsin, with many of the programs being nationally recognized and achieving the highest levels of accreditation. As a national premier health sciences research and education provider, the College is recognized for its collaborations that attract a record number of federal research grants, commitment to diversity, and innovative approaches to education and research that have contributed significantly to improving the quality of life for people in Milwaukee and beyond.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.