Degrees
Students choose to declare Integrative Physiology & Athletic Training (IPAT) as their academic major. They may also elect to pursue one of the following specialized concentrations listed below.
Students may declare their concentration at any time, but they must fulfill all requirements of the degree as listed in the course catalog for the year in which they started (or later year). Those who declare their concentration in their freshman or sophomore years are more likely to complete the required course of study in four years.
IPAT's new curriculum will be announced on July 1st, 2025!
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The option is designed to prepare students for subsequent advanced professional studies such as, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physicians, graduate work in physiology or biomechanics, and other related health sciences. It provides students with an in-depth science background by providing the prerequisites for post-baccalaureate work. Successful graduates of this option should possess the knowledge and skills to qualify for the ACSM Exercise Physiologist or Clinical Exercise Physiologist (requires additional clinical hours).
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The option is designed to prepare students for jobs as practitioners, such as working in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, elderly services providers, strength and conditioning, athletic coaches, personal trainers, corporate wellness personnel and directors, fitness center directors and other fitness related jobs. Successful graduates of this option should possess the knowledge and skills to qualify for the American College of Sport Medicine-Group Exercise Instructor or Personal Trainer , as well as the National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
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The option is designed to prepare students for graduate studies in athletic training. This option is unique in that it provides undergraduate students an opportunity to transition, after three years of undergraduate study, into our graduate level Athletic Training program, eventually leading to a Master's in Athletic Training. Graduates of this option become professional athletic trainers working in a variety of settings ranging from collegiate and professional athletic programs, hospitals and medical centers, and private sector companies.
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The option prepares students for post- baccalaureate work in many health professions including physician assistant and occupational therapy, but leaves open room for electives for further specific preparation. It differs from the ES-preprofessional option by not requiring advanced math or physics. It utilizes anatomy, chemistry, mathematics, and physiology knowledge to understand, study, and explore functions of the human body. With an emphasis on movement and human health, students learn from a multitude of disciplines as they develop mastery of physiologic systems, rehabilitation sciences, and performance.
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The concentration is for students planning to continue on in higher education in athletic training, exercise science or other health-related professions. Successful graduates of this option will possess an understanding of exercise and fitness and their relationship to human physiology, as well as the skills to prevent, evaluate and treat sports injuries.
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The concentration of the Integrative Physiology and Athletic Training major is for students who will instruct physical education and health classes within a K-12 primary/secondary education system. Comprehensive training includes coursework in education and pedagogy in addition to specific work related to exercise, physical education, and health related content knowledge. Foundational teaching concepts are provided through primary and secondary health enhancement coursework and theory and practice in community health education. Topical knowledge is provided by the courses, motor control/learning, and exercise physiology. This curriculum is thematically related to lifestyle medicine and Exercise is Medicine, including basic nutrition, personal health and wellness, promotion of wellbeing in K-12 classrooms, program planning in community health, and foundations of health and human performance. Aspects of coaching, exercise programing, and professional development are provided through coursework in strength training and conditioning, basic exercise prescription, prevention and care of athletic injuries, and legal and ethical issues in health and exercise professions.
Minors & Certificates
At the conclusion of your undergraduate degree, you should be fully prepared to seek an entry-level position in your chosen field or pursue an advanced degree. Your coursework will help you to:
- Identify the historical underpinnings of the fields of integrative physiology and athletic training, and understand how they influence modern practices in these fields
- Explain complex principles in your area of specialization using effective dissemination techniques, including oral and written communication skills
- Practice collaboration with peers and colleagues in your chosen area of specialization
- Utilize evidence-based practices in professional settings or applications
- Display a basic level of competence required for your chosen field of study or advanced study
Career Opportunities
A degree from the School of Integrative Physiology and Athletic Training prepares students for a variety of growing job fields. Please review our IPAT Career Opportunities webpage, visit UM Experiential Learning and Career Success and/or contact your academic advisor for an overview of potential future employment opportunities.
General School Guidelines
In order to remain in good standing with the school, students must maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.25 regardless of their concentration. ** The GPA requirements for individual concentrations may vary. Please note the specific requirements for your desired concentration!
Failure to maintain the minimum grade point average will result in probation for the first semester, and suspension from enrolling in 300-400 level courses after the probationary semester until the cumulative grade point average is raised to or above the 2.25 minimum.
All IPAT majors must earn a minimum grade of a C- in all required courses, including pre-requisites.
Courses specifically listed in the University catalog as requirements must be taken for a traditional letter grade.