LSU’s Athletic Training Program: Champions Working With Champions and Shaping the Future of Sports Medicine
March 31, 2025
LSU’s Master of Athletic Training program in the School of Kinesiology is more than just a graduate degree—it’s a gateway to real-world experiences that prepare students for careers in sports medicine.
Diverse Clinical Experiences
LSU Kinesiology’s Athletic Training Program offers a unique blend of classroom learning and hands-on clinical training.
“I think any time that individuals have an opportunity to be part of something as big and popular as LSU Athletics, I think there's always a draw. We've seen our application pool skyrocket in the past two years. Our master's program has only been available for a handful of years, and we're getting the best and the brightest who want to come to LSU and be a part of this amazing experience that we've been able to develop,” said Amanda Benson, program director of Athletic Training Education in LSU School of Kinesiology.
Students spend half their time in the classroom, and the other half is dedicated to gaining practical experience with preceptors, community partners, local high schools and physicians, and LSU’s world-class athletes.
“We’re able to be part of a team and participate as a unit, just like a sports team,” Benson said.
Students are able to work with a variety of sports teams at LSU and in the community.
“They may be working with a middle school basketball team, and then their next clinical experience could be working with our national championship gymnastics team,” Benson said.
Making an Impact in Louisiana and Beyond
The program’s impact reaches far beyond LSU’s athletic facilities, making a lasting difference in communities across Louisiana.
"Many of our students stay in the state of Louisiana to serve as athletic trainers. We've had multiple students from our master's program get jobs in the local area, and they're able to serve their community,” said Rebecca Hirschhorn, assistant professor of Professional Practice. “Louisiana has an initiative where graduates who choose to work in rural or underserved areas receive financial assistance for student loans and tuition. It’s a great way to encourage students to give back."
A Championship Culture
LSU’s reputation as a powerhouse in collegiate athletics translates to its approach to sports medicine as well. Micki Collins, director of sports medicine for LSU Athletics, said the program is essential.
"The Masters of Athletic Training program here at LSU is vital to the success we have at the LSU Sports Medicine Department for our student athletes. They provide not only support for our student-athletes but also support for our athletic trainers,” Collins said.
Students are fully immersed in athletic training, balancing rehab sessions, classroom learning, and game-day responsibilities. “This program does a really good job of throwing you into every aspect of athletic training," says Mackenzie Sweatt, a first-year student.
Collins underscores how LSU’s commitment to excellence shapes students for success.
“LSU is a champion at building teams. They're a champion at building student-athletes. They're a champion at building Master’s of Athletic Trainers. People who start here finish as champions.”
“Our women-driven Athletic Training program leads the way as an innovative change agent for the field in Louisiana and beyond! We are proud to have such an amazing team in the School of Kinesiology who work closely with our partners in LSU Athletics and throughout high school, college, and professional sports," said John Nauright, director of the School of Kinesiology.
Why LSU?
For students like Emilia Paragas, a first-year student from Los Angeles, LSU’s program stands out for its supportive environment. "Athletic training requires the trait of taking care of other people, but I found with this program, they take care of you."
LSU’s Athletic Training Program offers a unique combination of hands-on learning and immersive experiences, making it a top choice for aspiring athletic trainers.
As Benson puts it, “Why LSU? Why not LSU?”
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