The M.A.T. degree in physical education (K-12) is limited to those candidates seeking teacher certification. Candidates who wish to pursue this degree and have undergraduate degrees in fields other than physical education, exercise science, or kinesiology will be required to complete undergraduate prerequisite courses.
The M.A.T. degree in physical education requires a minimum of 45 hours of graduate course work. In addition, candidates must take undergraduate course work in order to fulfill teacher certification requirements. The graduate program is normally two years. Graduation from the MAT. program requires successful completion of all course work, including internship/directed teaching and a comprehensive examination.
Learning Outcomes
- Content Knowledge. Physical education teachers understand physical education content and disciplinary concepts related to the development of a physically educated person.
- Growth and Development. Physical education teachers understand how individuals learn and develop and can provide opportunities that support their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.
- Diverse Students. Physical education teachers understand how individuals differ in their approaches to learning, and create appropriate instruction adapted to these differences.
- Management and Motivation. Physical education teachers use an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a safe learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self motivation.
- Communication. Physical education teachers use knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to enhance learning and engagement in physical activity settings.
- Planning and Instruction. Physical education teachers plan and implement a variety of developmentally appropriate instructional strategies to develop physically educated individuals, based on state and national (NASPE K-12) standards.
- Student Assessment. Physical education teachers understand and use assessment to foster physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of students in physical activity.
- Reflection. Physical education teachers are reflective practitioners who evaluate the effects of their actions on others (e.g., students, parents/guardians, fellow professionals), and seek opportunities to grow professionally.
- Technology. Physical education teachers use information technology to enhance learning and to enhance personal and professional productivity.
- Collaboration. Physical education teachers foster relationships with colleagues, parents/guardians, and community agencies to support students’ growth and well being.
Admissions Criteria
Regulations and requirements for admission to graduate study and graduate degree candidacy for Initial Teacher Certification Programs correspond to those of The Graduate School. To be considered for admission to the M.A.T. in Physical Education, applicants must complete the Graduate School application process, which includes submission of following:
- Official transcripts
- Personal Statement
- Resume
- 2 Letters of Recommendation
Degree Requirements (45 Hours)
Graduate course requirements include the following:
Physical Education Courses (39 Hours)
Course List | Course | Title | Credits |
| PEDU 510 | Teaching Health Related Physical Fitness | 3 |
| PEDU 515 | Physical Education for Inclusion | 3 |
| PEDU 520 | Observational Analysis of Sports Techniques and Tactics | 3 |
| EDRD 500 | Content Area Literacy PK-12 | 3 |
| or EDRD 730 | Teaching Reading and Writing in the Content Areas |
| PEDU 710 | Measurement and Research in Physical Education | 3 |
| PEDU 722 | Curriculum Development in Physical Education | 3 |
| PEDU 729 | Study of the Teaching of Physical Education | 3 |
| PEDU 730 | Psychosocial Aspects of Athletic Performance and Injury Rehabilitation | 3 |
| PEDU 732 | Analysis of Instructional Behavior in Physical Activity Programs | 3 |
| PEDU 778A | Directed Student Teaching in Physical Education I | 6 |
| PEDU 778B | Directed Student Teaching in Physical Education II | 6 |
| Total Credit Hours | 39 |
Educational Psychology Courses (3 Hours)
- As approved by the candidate’s program of study.
Foundations of Education Course (3 Hours)
- As approved by the candidate’s program of study
