Leadership in Physical Education and Movement Studies, Master of Education

Program Features 

• Tailored for physical educators: The program is designed for those who already hold an initial license in elementary or secondary physical education.

• Three disciplines: Students can choose between focus areas; physical education, adapted physical education, and adventure education

• Flexible pacing options: This program can be completed in ~2 years full-time or 3 to 6 years part-time. Our courses are offered in the evening, all year long, and include several hybrid courses. The physical education and adapted physical education disciplines can be completed fully online. The adventure education discipline can be completed online with one in-person course held in Beverly.

• Faculty: Our faculty have a variety of experiences in the field and are active scholars and researchers in areas such as learning and teaching styles, assessment, constructivist teaching strategies, and adapted physical education. Our faculty hold doctorate degrees in the field and are fully committed to the discipline and teaching of physical education.

• Culturally sustaining practices: Our teacher candidates are trained to create equitable learning environments in public schools. They learn how to design and implement culturally responsive lessons, manage classrooms of diverse learners, respond to the needs of all students and increase equitable access to learning for all students. Our dedicated faculty are committed to promoting social justice and equitable access to learning for all students.

• Graduate assistantships: Opportunities to apply for graduate assistantships, grants and scholarships. 

Curriculum 

Our robust 30-credit curriculum gives students the skills and confidence to begin teaching on day one. Students will select a “focus area” consisting of 12 credits of in-depth study in a specific area of the discipline. In addition, students will have the opportunity to explore outside of the focus area or even within other disciplines with three (3) elective credits. 

Sample Elective Courses

• SMS 805 – Curriculum and Instructional Design in Health and Physical Education 

• SMS 807 – Assessment of Student Learning in Physical Education 

• EDU 991K – Teacher Leadership for Structural Change 

Licensure Opportunities* 

Students seeking a professional license in physical education through the Massachusetts DESE can complete the necessary coursework and apply for the professional license on their own either while in the program or after completion. 

_{*Please be aware that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts may change licensure requirements. Students are advised to contact the state for specific, current licensure requirements. Students may access that information at the Department for Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).}