Sterling College has announced the creation of two new master’s programs in athletic training and sports ministry, becoming the first graduate-level programs offered in College history. The programs are scheduled to begin Summer 2018.

 

“Adding master’s programs is a momentous occasion for Sterling College. We are eager to fulfill a growing need for master’s programs in athletic training and in sports ministry while emphasizing servant leadership and a Christ-centered education. I want to congratulate those who worked tirelessly on the accreditation process as we celebrate their success,” said Dr. Scott Rich, president of the College.

 

The news comes after Sterling gained approval for these programs from the Higher Learning Commission as regionally-accredited programs.

 

“As we move forward with these new programs, we are excited to widen our sphere of influence as we prepare creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. With Dr. Pete Manely, Dr. Erin Laudermilk, Dr. Roy Millhouse and several others leading the way, our applications for both programs were approved in May. We are grateful to the many other faculty and administrators who have also worked to ready our programs,” said Dr. Ken Brown, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the College.

 

 

The addition of the Graduate Athletic Training Program and the Master of Science in Athletic Training comes at a time when major players in the industry have pushed for a higher level of education to become standard. The Strategic Alliance, a joint effort involving the Board of Certification (BOC), the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) and the NATA Research and Education Foundation (NATA Foundation) made a public announcement in May of 2015 noting that the profession of athletic training will move to the Master’s Degree for the professional degree level.

 

 

The Graduate Program in Sports Ministry and the Master of Art was born out of interest by individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in ministry-related athletic organizations. This online program would fit those working in sports ministry organizations, public and private school settings, among other vocations.

 

For additional information about graduate study at Sterling College contact Dennis Dutton in the Office of Admissions at (800) 346-1017 or graduateprograms@sterling.edu.

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.