UE Expands Athletic Training Opportunities with University of Virginia Partnership

Evansville, Ind. (04/09/2026) — The University of Evansville's (UE) Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program has officially added the University of Virginia Athletics Department as an immersive clinical site beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year and continuing beyond.

This new partnership provides MSAT students with expanded opportunities to gain hands-on experience within a nationally recognized athletics program-advancing UE's commitment to Active Academics by integrating rigorous classroom learning with real-world application. It also creates Extraordinary Experiences that prepare students to make an impact in their profession and communities, reflecting the University's mission of Changing Lives, Changing the World.

A key contributor to establishing this partnership is UE alumna Mitsu Eto, who currently serves as an assistant athletic trainer at the University of Virginia. Eto works with both the men's and women's track and field and cross-country teams and played an instrumental role in initiating collaboration between the two institutions.

"We are especially proud that this partnership was made possible through one of our own alumni. Mitsu Eto's leadership and commitment to the profession exemplify the impact our graduates are making across the country," said Jeff Tilly, Master of Athletic Training Program Director and Department Chair. "This partnership expands what's possible for our students and highlights the growing national footprint of UE's athletic training program."

With this addition, the UE MSAT program now offers immersive clinical placements at the following institutions:

• University of Virginia
• University of Florida
• Vanderbilt University
• University of Missouri
• Southern Illinois University Carbondale
• Murray State University

These partnerships reflect UE's continued commitment to providing high-quality, diverse clinical experiences that prepare students for success in athletic training at the highest levels.