Athletic Training (MS)/Exercise Science (BS) Dual Degree Program

Athletic Training/Exercise Science 3+2 Dual Degree Program

Aurora University offers an accelerated “3+2” program that allows you to earn both a BS in Exercise Science degree and an MS in Athletic Training degree in five years. The “3+2” dual degree program will help you develop the skills and experience you need to accelerate your career and become an effective athletic trainer.

Athletic Training is a multi-faceted field that combines a love for and interest in sports medicine, biology, physiology, medicine, and the science of exercise. By majoring in exercise science, you will gain the most well-rounded understanding of the human body and learn how to make a long-lasting impact on the health and well-being of others. You will then apply and further that knowledge throughout your athletic training coursework. Combined, you will graduate with two degrees that create the foundation for a rewarding career as a certified athletic trainer.

Why study Athletic Training/Exercise Science at AU?

By majoring in Exercise Science with an athletic training emphasis, you can apply to be an advanced standing student in the MS in Athletic Training during your junior year. If admitted, you will begin your master’s degree coursework during your fourth year while concurrently completing your BS in Exercise Science. After graduating with your bachelor’s degree, you will complete a summer internship and the second year of master’s-level coursework before graduating with an MS in Athletic Training degree. You can view an example of the five-year course sequence here.

Throughout the “3+2” program, you will participate in coursework that combines classroom time and real-world situations. The degree is designed to fulfill Board of Certification (BOC) examination eligibility and Illinois state licensing requirements necessary to practice athletic training nationally and in the state of Illinois.

Spartan Story

Spartan Story: Luke Picek '21 Exercise Science, ’22 MS in Athletic Training, explains how AU's 3+2 program gives him the ideal combination of classroom work and hands-on experience.