TSU and MTSU Forge Partnership to Advance Future Athletic Trainers

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University students with dreams of becoming professional athletic trainers just gained a significant advantage with the launch of an articulation agreement with Middle Tennessee State University. Effective January 1, this agreement provides qualified TSU’s Human Performance and Sports Science students with a seamless pathway to transition into MTSU’s Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program.

Dr. Poliala Dickson

The collaboration ensures that TSU students will benefit from specialized advising, a streamlined admissions roadmap, and a clear alignment of coursework to meet the prerequisites of MTSU’s competitive MSAT program. Students who complete the designated courses with a grade of C or better, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and fulfill other requirements will be assured consideration for up to two seats per cohort in the MSAT program.

“This agreement demonstrates a commitment to collaboration between our institutions and expands opportunities for TSU students interested in the high-demand field of athletic training,” said Dr. Poliala Dickson, Associatete Professor of HPSS at TSU, who headed the discussions leading to the agreement. “We are excited to partner with MTSU to offer this pathway and provide our students with a seamless transition to graduate studies.”

Dr. Robbie Melton

Supporting this initiative, Dr. Robbie Melton, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at TSU, emphasized the importance of fostering opportunities for student success through collaborative efforts.

“In the evolving landscape of health and sports science, partnerships like these are vital,” Melton said. “They empower our students to achieve their professional aspirations while addressing the increasing demand in the athletic training field.”

Kimora Marie Esmon

Dr. Kristi Phillips from MTSU echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are pleased to partner with TSU on this articulation agreement. This collaboration will allow us to attract talented students from TSU and provide them with a high-quality athletic training education. We look forward to welcoming TSU-HPSS graduates to our MSAT program.”

Among the excited students is Kimora Marie Esmon, a junior from Spring Hill, Tennessee, who dreams of working as an athletic trainer in collegiate sports. “I’m very passionate about athletic training, and when my professor first told me about the transition, I thought it was a wonderful idea,” Esmon said. “MTSU was always number one on my list. I am looking forward to the experience and getting a well-rounded education.”

Dr. Jason Smith

Dr. Jason Smith, Chair of the HPSS department at TSU, highlighted the dedication of their faculty and staff in pursuing innovative avenues for student enrichment.

“Our dedicated faculty and staff relentlessly pursue innovative ways to empower students, ensuring they achieve their career aspirations,” Smith said. “This articulation agreement is a testament to our commitment to empowering students to achieve their career aspirations, thanks to the vision and tireless efforts of Dr. Dickson.”