7 answers
Lela
Student
Charter Township of Clinton, Michigan
1
Question
Asked
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Is there any benefit to getting both my masters in athletic training and my doctorate in physical therapy?
There are three grad schools in the United States that have a dual degree program to get both degrees in about 4 years, but both are out of state to me and very expensive. I’ve been trying to find out if there is any true benefit of getting both degrees that will help me work with professional sports teams. Any and all help is appreciated, thank you!
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7 answers
Chris Walker
4
Answers
Little Rock, Arkansas
Updated
Chris’s Answer
It really depends on what role you want to take with athletics.
If you want to work specifically with daily athlete training and progression it would benefit you more to undergrad in Exercise/Science (kinesiology). Then enter a Athletic Training program. This will provide you with the knowledge and skillset to design programs specific to progressive training.
The Physical Therapy route will deal primarily with post injury recovery and very little in daily training.
Many sports medicine physical therapy specialists view these majors as interchangeable and will hire both majors. I would recommend finding one such location in your area, pay them a visit and see if you can spend a day or 2 just observing what they do. Sports teams are extremely competitive with their jobs, so general population is likely where you can work while building experience to enter the competition for these positions.
Both programs are competitive with admissions and science driven, you can take time to decide through the undergraduate level. Many in the professions will allow you to do observation, as well as both majors require internships and or observation hours. You can do both, both have benefits but it really comes down to how you envision the day to day activities you desire to do.
If you want to work specifically with daily athlete training and progression it would benefit you more to undergrad in Exercise/Science (kinesiology). Then enter a Athletic Training program. This will provide you with the knowledge and skillset to design programs specific to progressive training.
The Physical Therapy route will deal primarily with post injury recovery and very little in daily training.
Many sports medicine physical therapy specialists view these majors as interchangeable and will hire both majors. I would recommend finding one such location in your area, pay them a visit and see if you can spend a day or 2 just observing what they do. Sports teams are extremely competitive with their jobs, so general population is likely where you can work while building experience to enter the competition for these positions.
Both programs are competitive with admissions and science driven, you can take time to decide through the undergraduate level. Many in the professions will allow you to do observation, as well as both majors require internships and or observation hours. You can do both, both have benefits but it really comes down to how you envision the day to day activities you desire to do.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5667
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Lela!
## Benefits of a Dual Masters in Athletic Training (MAT) and Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) for Working with Professional Sports Teams
There are definitely benefits to pursuing both an MAT and DPT, especially if your goal is to work with professional sports teams. Here's a breakdown:
**Advantages:**
* **Broader Skillset:** You'll have expertise in both injury prevention (focus of ATs) and rehabilitation (focus of PTs). This makes you a highly valuable asset to a team, allowing you to manage an athlete's journey from injury prevention to full recovery.
* **Increased Job Opportunities:** Having both degrees opens doors to a wider range of positions within sports medicine, including head athletic trainer, physical therapist specializing in sports, or even a combination role.
* **Enhanced Credibility:** The dual degree demonstrates a deeper commitment to the field and advanced knowledge, potentially giving you an edge over other candidates.
**Things to Consider:**
* **Cost and Time Commitment:** Dual programs are often expensive and take about 4 years to complete. Consider in-state options or scholarships to manage the cost.
* **Focus of Your Work:** If you're primarily interested in injury prevention and acute care on the field, an MAT might suffice. However, for a broader role with long-term rehabilitation responsibilities, the DPT is more fitting.
**Alternatives:**
* **DPT with Specialization in Sports:** Many DPT programs offer concentrations in sports medicine, providing similar expertise without the additional MAT.
**Here's some additional information that might be helpful:**
* Search for "[Dual Degree MSAT DPT]" to explore programs offered by different universities.
* Consider contacting athletic trainers or physical therapists currently working with professional teams to get their insights.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your career goals and financial situation. If working with professional sports teams is your dream, and you're passionate about both prevention and rehabilitation, then a dual degree could be a great investment. However, a DPT with a sports specialization could be a more cost-effective path.
God Bless!
JC.
## Benefits of a Dual Masters in Athletic Training (MAT) and Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) for Working with Professional Sports Teams
There are definitely benefits to pursuing both an MAT and DPT, especially if your goal is to work with professional sports teams. Here's a breakdown:
**Advantages:**
* **Broader Skillset:** You'll have expertise in both injury prevention (focus of ATs) and rehabilitation (focus of PTs). This makes you a highly valuable asset to a team, allowing you to manage an athlete's journey from injury prevention to full recovery.
* **Increased Job Opportunities:** Having both degrees opens doors to a wider range of positions within sports medicine, including head athletic trainer, physical therapist specializing in sports, or even a combination role.
* **Enhanced Credibility:** The dual degree demonstrates a deeper commitment to the field and advanced knowledge, potentially giving you an edge over other candidates.
**Things to Consider:**
* **Cost and Time Commitment:** Dual programs are often expensive and take about 4 years to complete. Consider in-state options or scholarships to manage the cost.
* **Focus of Your Work:** If you're primarily interested in injury prevention and acute care on the field, an MAT might suffice. However, for a broader role with long-term rehabilitation responsibilities, the DPT is more fitting.
**Alternatives:**
* **DPT with Specialization in Sports:** Many DPT programs offer concentrations in sports medicine, providing similar expertise without the additional MAT.
**Here's some additional information that might be helpful:**
* Search for "[Dual Degree MSAT DPT]" to explore programs offered by different universities.
* Consider contacting athletic trainers or physical therapists currently working with professional teams to get their insights.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your career goals and financial situation. If working with professional sports teams is your dream, and you're passionate about both prevention and rehabilitation, then a dual degree could be a great investment. However, a DPT with a sports specialization could be a more cost-effective path.
God Bless!
JC.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
350
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Lela,
Pursuing both a master's in athletic training (AT) and a doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) can offer several benefits, particularly if you aim to work with professional sports teams. Here are some potential advantages:
Comprehensive Skill Set
1. Holistic Approach: Having expertise in both athletic training and physical therapy can provide a well-rounded approach to injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Athletic trainers focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and immediate care of injuries, while physical therapists often handle long-term rehabilitation and recovery.
2. Versatility: With both degrees, you can handle a wide range of responsibilities, from acute injury management on the field to developing long-term rehabilitation plans, making you a versatile asset to any professional sports team.
Career Opportunities
1. Competitive Edge: The dual credentials can make you more competitive for positions with professional sports teams, as they often look for candidates with diverse and comprehensive skill sets.
2. Expanded Roles: You may qualify for a broader range of job roles, including positions that involve both on-field athletic training and clinical physical therapy. This dual capability can be particularly valuable in smaller organizations or teams with limited staff.
Professional Development
1. Advanced Knowledge: The additional education and training can deepen your understanding of sports medicine, biomechanics, and therapeutic techniques, which can enhance your ability to provide high-quality care.
2. Networking: Attending graduate programs, especially in institutions with strong ties to professional sports, can help you build a network of contacts in the sports medicine and professional sports industries.
Financial and Time Considerations
While the benefits are significant, it's essential to weigh them against the costs and logistical challenges:
1. Cost: Dual degree programs can be expensive, and the financial burden of out-of-state tuition and living expenses is considerable. You’ll need to consider if the potential increase in earning power and job opportunities justifies the upfront investment.
2. Time Commitment: The four-year commitment is intensive. Ensure you are ready for the rigorous academic and clinical demands.
Alternatives
If the dual degree program is prohibitively expensive or logistically challenging, consider the following alternatives:
1. Sequential Degrees: You might start with a master’s in athletic training and gain some work experience before pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy. This approach allows you to spread out the cost and time commitment.
2. Specialized Certifications: Look into specialized certifications or continuing education courses that can enhance your skills and marketability without the full investment of a second degree.
3. Targeted Job Search: Focus on athletic training or physical therapy positions with professional sports teams and leverage on-the-job experience to build your qualifications.
Conclusion
The dual degree in athletic training and physical therapy offers substantial benefits for those aiming to work with professional sports teams, providing a comprehensive skill set and a competitive edge. However, the significant costs and time commitment must be carefully considered. Evaluating your career goals, financial situation, and willingness to commit to an intensive program will help determine if this path is right for you.
Best wishes!
Pursuing both a master's in athletic training (AT) and a doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) can offer several benefits, particularly if you aim to work with professional sports teams. Here are some potential advantages:
Comprehensive Skill Set
1. Holistic Approach: Having expertise in both athletic training and physical therapy can provide a well-rounded approach to injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Athletic trainers focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and immediate care of injuries, while physical therapists often handle long-term rehabilitation and recovery.
2. Versatility: With both degrees, you can handle a wide range of responsibilities, from acute injury management on the field to developing long-term rehabilitation plans, making you a versatile asset to any professional sports team.
Career Opportunities
1. Competitive Edge: The dual credentials can make you more competitive for positions with professional sports teams, as they often look for candidates with diverse and comprehensive skill sets.
2. Expanded Roles: You may qualify for a broader range of job roles, including positions that involve both on-field athletic training and clinical physical therapy. This dual capability can be particularly valuable in smaller organizations or teams with limited staff.
Professional Development
1. Advanced Knowledge: The additional education and training can deepen your understanding of sports medicine, biomechanics, and therapeutic techniques, which can enhance your ability to provide high-quality care.
2. Networking: Attending graduate programs, especially in institutions with strong ties to professional sports, can help you build a network of contacts in the sports medicine and professional sports industries.
Financial and Time Considerations
While the benefits are significant, it's essential to weigh them against the costs and logistical challenges:
1. Cost: Dual degree programs can be expensive, and the financial burden of out-of-state tuition and living expenses is considerable. You’ll need to consider if the potential increase in earning power and job opportunities justifies the upfront investment.
2. Time Commitment: The four-year commitment is intensive. Ensure you are ready for the rigorous academic and clinical demands.
Alternatives
If the dual degree program is prohibitively expensive or logistically challenging, consider the following alternatives:
1. Sequential Degrees: You might start with a master’s in athletic training and gain some work experience before pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy. This approach allows you to spread out the cost and time commitment.
2. Specialized Certifications: Look into specialized certifications or continuing education courses that can enhance your skills and marketability without the full investment of a second degree.
3. Targeted Job Search: Focus on athletic training or physical therapy positions with professional sports teams and leverage on-the-job experience to build your qualifications.
Conclusion
The dual degree in athletic training and physical therapy offers substantial benefits for those aiming to work with professional sports teams, providing a comprehensive skill set and a competitive edge. However, the significant costs and time commitment must be carefully considered. Evaluating your career goals, financial situation, and willingness to commit to an intensive program will help determine if this path is right for you.
Best wishes!
Isabel Dominguez
Student
98
Answers
Corning, California
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
Hello Lela!
Pursuing both a master's degree in athletic training and a doctorate in physical therapy can be a game-changer, particularly if you're aiming to work with professional sports teams. These dual degrees equip you with a well-rounded understanding and abilities in areas like injury prevention, rehabilitation, and boosting performance. This makes you a versatile and sought-after professional in the field of sports medicine.
But remember, these programs can be pricey and they're not in your home state, so it's essential to balance the costs with the potential career advantages they offer. Connecting with seasoned professionals and seeking guidance from those currently practicing can be a great way to figure out if this investment aligns with your unique career aspirations.
Pursuing both a master's degree in athletic training and a doctorate in physical therapy can be a game-changer, particularly if you're aiming to work with professional sports teams. These dual degrees equip you with a well-rounded understanding and abilities in areas like injury prevention, rehabilitation, and boosting performance. This makes you a versatile and sought-after professional in the field of sports medicine.
But remember, these programs can be pricey and they're not in your home state, so it's essential to balance the costs with the potential career advantages they offer. Connecting with seasoned professionals and seeking guidance from those currently practicing can be a great way to figure out if this investment aligns with your unique career aspirations.
Barbara Patti
OKR Consultant at okrindo.com
12
Answers
Palo Alto, California
Updated
Barbara’s Answer
Getting both a master's in athletic training and a doctorate in physical therapy can offer significant benefits if you aim to work with professional sports teams. This dual degree provides a comprehensive skill set, combining injury prevention and rehabilitation expertise, making you more competitive in the job market. It can lead to higher earning potential and advanced career opportunities.
However, consider the costs and out-of-state tuition. Use tools like the FAFSA website for financial aid options and calculators like the one on College Board to evaluate tuition costs. Research the specific requirements and preferences of professional sports teams and reach out to professionals in the field for advice. Additionally, reach out to professionals on platforms like LinkedIn or through professional organizations like the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) for advice.
While the dual degree can enhance your qualifications, ensure the benefits align with your career goals and financial situation.
However, consider the costs and out-of-state tuition. Use tools like the FAFSA website for financial aid options and calculators like the one on College Board to evaluate tuition costs. Research the specific requirements and preferences of professional sports teams and reach out to professionals in the field for advice. Additionally, reach out to professionals on platforms like LinkedIn or through professional organizations like the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) for advice.
While the dual degree can enhance your qualifications, ensure the benefits align with your career goals and financial situation.
Lauren T
Physical Therapist Assistant
24
Answers
Joliet, Illinois
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Is there any benefit to getting both my masters in athletic training and my doctorate in physical therapy?
This sounds great. It also sounds tough. The Athletic Training program used to be a Bachelor's degree. So you'll see a lot of PT's that did their undergraduate degree in Athletic Training, and then got their Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT). The DPT program in and of itself can be demanding and time consuming. I have many friends that were full-time DPT students, in that, they didn't work and didn't socialize much because they were so busy with their 3-year DPT program. It would seem like a heavy influx of information to absorb and digest to also complete the Master's in Athletic Training program simultaneously.
PTs and Athletic Trainers have to pass state licensing exams in order to start treating. So I would guess that you'd have to take (which also involves studying and preparing for) both exams. I would wonder what the college programs you're looking into suggest for going about this as well given that they're each so important.
With all this being said, if there are programs that exist that combine these 2 topics/degrees, they've mapped out a way for you to get it done. I would dive deeper into signing up to these college's info sessions to learn as much as you can about them. There are some DPT programs that are calling themselves "accelerated" programs that can take 2 years. Otherwise, it's a 3 year degree. And to get a Master's in Athletic Training alone, it will take you 2 years, I believe. So you could potentially shave off 1 year of schooling doing both at once.
You are not required to have a Master's to complete a DPT program. Both the Athletic Training and DPT require that you complete a Bachelor's (preferably in a related field to have completed all the gen ed requirements for their programs). If there is not an urgency to get the DPT, you can work on the Bachelor's in Pre-Athletic Training or Kinesiology/Exercise Science, then move on to the Master's in Athletic Training program. And you may decide, that's all I need to get where I want to. Then you won't need to go on with the time and financial commitment of the DPT program, after all. Or, you get all that education and internship and clinical work experience to put you in a better position to then apply to a competitive DPT program to obtain the additional degree.
I do agree with one of the other posts that to work with a professional sports team, physical therapy is more about post-injury rehabilitation. Athletic trainers are skilled with this as well, especially when it comes to athletes. In my physical therapy outpatient orthopedic setting, Athletic Trainers can treat patients alongside PTs and PTAs. But, they CANNOT treat Medicare patients. Per Medicare standards, they are not equipped to care for a (generally speaking) older patient population - the geriatric patients. As a PTA, I can treat Medicare patients because I have had a more broad education of treating all demographics of patients, not just athletes. A DPT would allow you to treat a broader patient population, but that might not necessarily be important to you if you want to work with younger, professional athletes.
I would say, once you're looking into competitive jobs in the professional sports arena, it would stand out to see an application that reads: Athletic Trainer AND Doctor of Physical Therapy.
On a different note, I did work with an Athletic Trainer that was also a Chiropractor. He was the lead Athletic Trainer for the local high school district all the way up to professional sports teams including AVP volleyball and a US men's soccer team. But he spent most of his treatment hours in a clinic treating patients of all ages.
Best of luck to you in whatever path you end up choosing. Sounds like it's something that you are passionate about, and it's just a matter of which route you take to get there! Go Lela!
Research the graduate schools and attend info sessions.
Compare costs of a Master's in Athletic Training program plus a DPT program and see if there's really a big cost savings or not, since there can be 2 year accelerated DPT programs
This sounds great. It also sounds tough. The Athletic Training program used to be a Bachelor's degree. So you'll see a lot of PT's that did their undergraduate degree in Athletic Training, and then got their Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT). The DPT program in and of itself can be demanding and time consuming. I have many friends that were full-time DPT students, in that, they didn't work and didn't socialize much because they were so busy with their 3-year DPT program. It would seem like a heavy influx of information to absorb and digest to also complete the Master's in Athletic Training program simultaneously.
PTs and Athletic Trainers have to pass state licensing exams in order to start treating. So I would guess that you'd have to take (which also involves studying and preparing for) both exams. I would wonder what the college programs you're looking into suggest for going about this as well given that they're each so important.
With all this being said, if there are programs that exist that combine these 2 topics/degrees, they've mapped out a way for you to get it done. I would dive deeper into signing up to these college's info sessions to learn as much as you can about them. There are some DPT programs that are calling themselves "accelerated" programs that can take 2 years. Otherwise, it's a 3 year degree. And to get a Master's in Athletic Training alone, it will take you 2 years, I believe. So you could potentially shave off 1 year of schooling doing both at once.
You are not required to have a Master's to complete a DPT program. Both the Athletic Training and DPT require that you complete a Bachelor's (preferably in a related field to have completed all the gen ed requirements for their programs). If there is not an urgency to get the DPT, you can work on the Bachelor's in Pre-Athletic Training or Kinesiology/Exercise Science, then move on to the Master's in Athletic Training program. And you may decide, that's all I need to get where I want to. Then you won't need to go on with the time and financial commitment of the DPT program, after all. Or, you get all that education and internship and clinical work experience to put you in a better position to then apply to a competitive DPT program to obtain the additional degree.
I do agree with one of the other posts that to work with a professional sports team, physical therapy is more about post-injury rehabilitation. Athletic trainers are skilled with this as well, especially when it comes to athletes. In my physical therapy outpatient orthopedic setting, Athletic Trainers can treat patients alongside PTs and PTAs. But, they CANNOT treat Medicare patients. Per Medicare standards, they are not equipped to care for a (generally speaking) older patient population - the geriatric patients. As a PTA, I can treat Medicare patients because I have had a more broad education of treating all demographics of patients, not just athletes. A DPT would allow you to treat a broader patient population, but that might not necessarily be important to you if you want to work with younger, professional athletes.
I would say, once you're looking into competitive jobs in the professional sports arena, it would stand out to see an application that reads: Athletic Trainer AND Doctor of Physical Therapy.
On a different note, I did work with an Athletic Trainer that was also a Chiropractor. He was the lead Athletic Trainer for the local high school district all the way up to professional sports teams including AVP volleyball and a US men's soccer team. But he spent most of his treatment hours in a clinic treating patients of all ages.
Best of luck to you in whatever path you end up choosing. Sounds like it's something that you are passionate about, and it's just a matter of which route you take to get there! Go Lela!
Lauren recommends the following next steps:
Ezra Daniel Bonet
Clinical Physiologist
1
Answer
Kaduna, Nigeria
Updated
Ezra’s Answer
Hello Lela!
A master degree in Athletic Training and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy sounds great even to the listening ear that is interested in a well rounded exercise programs involved with both athletes and rehabilitation patients. These can propel you into sport teams and as rehab physio in hospitals.
However, these can be overwhelming in terms of time management and funding, especially if you are not from the United States; funding is a major barrier to alot of people I know.
But in general, the benefits to these programs cannot be overemphasised. I'll advise, if you have the means, go for them and you'll turn out so great.
I hope this helps.
A master degree in Athletic Training and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy sounds great even to the listening ear that is interested in a well rounded exercise programs involved with both athletes and rehabilitation patients. These can propel you into sport teams and as rehab physio in hospitals.
However, these can be overwhelming in terms of time management and funding, especially if you are not from the United States; funding is a major barrier to alot of people I know.
But in general, the benefits to these programs cannot be overemphasised. I'll advise, if you have the means, go for them and you'll turn out so great.
I hope this helps.