Physical Education and Health Specialization, M.Ed.

Graduate Coordinator: Dr. Clarice (Sue) Combs

The Master of Education with specialization in Physical Education and Health (PEH) is designed for candidates who are teaching Physical Education and Health at the public school levels pre-kindergarten through grade twelve. Graduates of the program will possess the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue advanced education in teacher education programs within the discipline, as well as to work in professional and leadership positions within public and private school settings. The M.Ed. with specialization in Physical Education and Health requires a minimum of 34 credit hours. The program consists of a core of professional studies that develops the instructional decision-making of teachers and a focus core designed to enhance knowledge of subject matter, structure of disciplines, and appropriate modes of inquiry. The specialization supports the Watson College of Education’s conceptual framework of developing highly competent professionals to serve in educational leadership roles.

Objectives

Students will demonstrate a basic understanding about the research process as it relates to PEH.
Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze and synthesize research in PEH.
Students will demonstrate skill in communication of PEH.
Students will demonstrate the ability to apply PEH concepts in instructional settings.
Students will demonstrate in-depth knowledge in PEH.
Students will demonstrate appropriate methods for working with diverse student populations.
Students will demonstrate good interpersonal communication skills.
Students will demonstrate knowledge about planning and evaluating PEH programs and instruction.
Students will demonstrate appropriate use of technology in teaching.
Students will demonstrate appropriate use of technology in the supervision and evaluation of teaching.
Students will demonstrate appropriate methods for working with students in today’s world.
Students will demonstrate knowledge about appropriate supervision of instruction skills for physical activity settings.
Students will demonstrate knowledge about current trends and issues in PEH.

Admission Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, completed before graduate study begins.
Official copies of transcripts of college work (graduate and undergraduate). An undergraduate grade average of “B” (GPA=3.0) or better is recommended.
Three recommendations by individuals in relevant professional fields.
A letter of interest describing commitment to the teaching profession, prior experiences working with K-12 students in PEH classes, prior experiences in schools, and philosophy of teaching and learning.
Application and supplemental documents must be submitted by the published deadline.

Degree Requirements (34 total credit hours)

Professional Core (9 credit hours)

EDL 523 - Research in Education Credits: 3 Or other research option as approved by program coordinator
EDL 530 - Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Credits: 3
EDN 500 - Human Development and Learning Credits: 3

PEH Core (25 credit hours)

PED 515 - Adapted Physical Activity Credits: 0-4
PED 546 - Analysis of Teaching in Physical Education and Health Credits: 3
PED 585 - Curriculum Development in PEH Credits: 3
PED 589 - Supervision of Instruction in PEH Credits: 3
PED 590 - Action Research in PEH Credits: 3
Three electives (9 hours) from HEA 500-599, PED 500-599, MIT 500-599, EDL 500-599, or EDN 500-599 (as approved by program coordinator)

Exit Requirement

Candidates completing the specialization will be required to complete a teaching portfolio, part of which would include an action research project. The portfolio will be based on specialization objectives and state/national standards for PEH teachers.