News Releases

Southeastern and North Oaks partner to offer work study and internship opportunities

North Oaks Health System, the official healthcare provider of Southeastern Louisiana University Athletics, has partnered with Southeastern’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies to help recruit top students pursuing a master’s of science degree in athletic training (MSAT).

Tonya Lowentritt

January 30, 2025

Southeastern Louisiana University Master of Science in Athletic Training students watch hip evaluation demonstrations performed by program director Ryan Green, LAT, ATC, in lower body assessment class.

North Oaks Health System, the official healthcare provider of Southeastern Louisiana University Athletics, has partnered with Southeastern’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies to help recruit top students pursuing a master’s of science degree in athletic training (MSAT).

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, athletic training is one of the fastest growing healthcare professions. Certified athletic trainers play a crucial role in the health and wellness of active populations, working in diverse settings –including sports, in medical and industrial fields, and even the military, law enforcement and performing arts.

North Oaks offers qualified aspiring athletic trainers the opportunity to participate in post-graduate work-study and internship opportunities through its sports medicine program. North Oaks Sports Medicine also is the exclusive provider of sports medicine and sports performance services for 14 area schools in Tangipahoa and Livingston parishes.

“We are proud to further partner with Southeastern to enhance its MSAT curriculum, provide valuable clinical learning sites and attract the best and brightest future athletic trainers,” said North Oaks President and CEO Michele K. Sutton, FACHE. “With the demand for athletic trainers projected to grow by nearly 20% over the next decade, this partnership is truly a win-win. By strengthening our community’s healthcare resources, we’re ensuring a healthier future for its citizens and shaping the next generation of skilled athletic trainers.”

To be eligible for these opportunities, applicants must first be accepted into Southeastern’s MSAT program, complete the required prerequisite courses with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA, and have at least 40 hours of observation under a certified athletic trainer. Additional application materials include a personal statement, letters of recommendation and a current resume.

Southeastern’s Department Head of Kinesiology and Health Studies Charity Bryan said, “Southeastern Louisiana University offers the best MSAT program in Louisiana, and our partnership with North Oaks enhances its value and competitiveness.”

According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, the rise in demand for certified athletic trainers stems from factors such as the growing demographic of active senior adults and heightened focus on the safety of youth sports. This trend has led to more health systems, like North Oaks, as well as schools and businesses seeking the expertise of athletic trainers to help prevent and treat injuries.

“Southeastern and North Oaks have a long-standing, fruitful partnership,” said Southeastern President William S. Wainwright. “We are grateful to have a partner like North Oaks that helps us prepare the next generation of caregivers with hands-on, real-world training.”

Dean of Southeastern’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences Ann Carruth added, “Support like this helps us attract the best students.”
Southeastern’s MSAT program is nationally accredited. It encompasses 2.5 years of comprehensive classroom instruction, skills labs and valuable clinical experiences working with high school, collegiate and professional sports teams. Upon successful completion, graduates will be eligible to sit for the Board of Certification national exam.

To learn more about Southeastern’s MSAT program and work placement opportunities, interested candidates can contact Ryan Green at [email protected] or (985) 549-2351.

To learn more about athletic training careers with North Oaks Health System, contact North Oaks Sports Medicine Manager Steven Poche at [email protected] or (985) 230-6177.

SOUTHEASTERN AND NORTH OAKS PARTNER FOR EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES – Southeastern Louisiana University Master of Science in Athletic Training students watch hip evaluation demonstrations performed by program director Ryan Green, LAT, ATC, in lower body assessment class. Some students in this cohort are currently participating in work-study opportunities through North Oaks Health System.

View more News Releases