York University has announced a new partnership with Nebraska Wesleyan University to offer a Master of Athletic Training degree through a new three-plus-two program. The articulation agreement was signed on July 16, by York University Provost Shannon Leinen and Nebraska Wesleyan University President Darrin Good.
The new collaboration allows students to combine three years of coursework at York University and two years at Nebraska Wesleyan along with clinical experience at York University. Students who successfully complete the program will fulfill requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree from York University and a Master of Athletic Training degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University.
As the minimum credential for athletic training has shifted from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree, the new 3-2 program gives students an accredited pathway to complete their academic preparation and sit for their national certification in athletic training. Nebraska Wesleyan University is the only private institution in Nebraska to offer this program.
“The new program is a natural outgrowth of the outstanding work of our head athletic trainer, Chad Karcher and the recent addition of York University's Brian Lemons Athletic Training Center,” said Dr. Bryan Kretz, chair of YU’s division of mathematics and science. “The partnership with Nebraska Wesleyan University has been a natural next step. It fits our program and creates a collaboration providing a great education and hands-on experience. It gives our students a seamless and cost-effective pathway to achieve their goals and become licensed athletic trainers.”
"This is a huge step for our students,” added Chad Karcher, head athletic trainer at York University. “It allows those who are pursuing a Master’s Degree in Athletic Training, a more direct, concise route to that end. Nebraska Wesleyan's Athletic Training program has an excellent reputation. They produce quality athletic trainers and this program allows our students to take part in that expertise and achieve their professional goals. I'm very excited to share this news with our student trainers."
Provost Shannon Leinen stated that, “York University is thrilled to announce our partnership with Nebraska Wesleyan University to offer a pathway to the Master of Athletic Training degree. This collaboration represents our commitment to top-tier educational opportunities that meet the needs of today's workforce in timely and cost-efficient ways for our students. By combining the strengths and resources of both institutions, we are confident that this program will equip our students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in the field of athletic training.”
Students can begin enrolling in the 3+2 Athletic Training degree program for the Fall 2024 semester. For more information about the athletic training degree program contact admissions at enroll@york.edu.