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Physical Education Teacher Education, M.S.

College of Applied Human Sciences

Teacher working with students and instructing a physical education class

Discover the Physical Education Teacher Education degree from the WVU College of Applied Human Sciences. This online program is perfect for teachers seeking professional development and career advancement. Gain skills in designing dynamic school activity programs, creating evidence-based curricula, integrating instructional technology, and promoting physical activity among school-aged children.

Cost:

$702 / Cost per credit hour *

Courses and Credits:

10 Courses / 30 Credits

Duration:

Two years

Dates:

Next Start: August 20, 2025 Admission Terms: Fall, Spring, Summer

Learning Format:

Online asynchronous

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Program Overview

Lead Healthy and Active Schools

The Physical Education Teacher Education degree from the College of Applied Human Sciences prepares teaching professionals to lead healthy and active schools or to work with students in community recreation centers or sports arenas. The curriculum is aligned with advanced teaching standards (Professional Knowledge, Practice and Leadership) established by the Society for Health and Physical Educators.

The Benefits to Choosing Our Program

  • The Master of Science in Physical Education Teacher Education offered by the College of Applied Human Sciences is designed to prepare you to be a leader in the field of physical education and to positively affect the lives of today’s youth, helping them to reach their full potential.
  • The curriculum is designed to meet the Advanced Teacher Education Standards from the Society of Health and Physical Educators. To meet these advanced standards, faculty use a contemporary, issues-based approach that enables students to immediately apply the educational theory and concepts learned in their own K-12 schools and communities.
  • As a member of the Big XII Conference, West Virginia University is home to one of the nation’s premier college athletic programs. This backdrop provides you with access to a world-class network of physical education professionals including university faculty and staff, program alumni and organizational partners. Courses also afford frequent opportunities to build connections with your many colleagues in the program. Graduates become their own best resource!
"Being that I am a PE teacher, I felt that this would increase my knowledge and help me to become a better PE teacher. They helped me in so many ways."

Courtney Hudnall

Physical Education Teacher Education M.S.

headshot photograph of graduate courtney hudnall

Curriculum

The Physical Education Teacher Education master's degree prepares teaching professionals to lead healthy and active schools or to work with students in community recreation centers or sports arenas. All students will complete a curriculum that incorporates research methodology, instructional technology, assessment standards, motor development for special populations, principles of effective teaching, school physical activity, and supervision and advocacy. The unique sequencing of theoretical courses and applied labs allows teachers to apply concepts immediately with learners in their own K-12 classrooms.

The online courses in this program are taught by faculty who are nationally and internationally recognized leaders in their fields. This is a non-licensure program in West Virginia, however, and does not provide initial teaching certification in physical education as it is based on national advanced teaching standards. Prior to enrolling in this program, students who are seeking a pathway to an initial teaching license are encouraged to check with their state departments of education to see if the plan of study meets their requirements for an alternative certification pathway (see the WVDE Alternative Certification Program as an example).

Area of Emphasis (6 Credits)
You will pursue an area of emphasis during the spring semester. Choose from one of the three:

  • Model-based Physical Education (6 credits)
    • PET 565: Model-based Physical Education, 3 credit hours
    • PET 574: Model-based Physical Education Advanced Lab, 3 credit hours
  • Interscholastic Athletic Administration (6 credits)
    • SM 571: Interscholastic Sport Organization and Admin, 3 credit hours
    • SM 578: Leadership in Interscholastic Athletic Admin, 3 credit hours
  • Curriculum and Instruction (6 credits)
    • C&L 602: Curriculum and Teaching Principles, 3 credit hours
    • C&L 688: Classroom Organization and Management, 3 credit hours
Required Courses

  • PET 573: Instructional Technology and Physical Education, 3 credit hours
  • PET 585: PE Supervision and Advocacy - Advanced Lab, 3 credit hours
  • PET 580: School Physical Activity, 3 credit hours
  • PET 577: School Physical Activity Programs - Advanced Lab, 3 credit hours
  • PET 581: Adapted Physical Education , 3 credit hours
  • PET 576: Adapted Physical Education - Advanced Lab, 3 credit hours
  • PET 583: Principles of Effective Teaching in PE, 3 credit hours
  • PET 575: Principles of Effective Teaching in PE - Advanced Lab, 3 credit hours
Total: 30 Credit Hours

Admissions Requirements and Eligibility

Applicants should hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. Students may be admitted provisionally with a GPA of 2.75 or lower; however, provisional students must earn a 3.0 in the first 9 hours of coursework to continue in the program. It’s recommended students have access to youth (children and adolescents) in school-based physical education or community physical activity/sports settings throughout the duration of the program for course assignments and follow-up application tasks.

Admissions Process and How to Apply

  • Complete the  Online WVU Graduate Application
  • Upload a current resume highlighting professional background, experience, and qualifications
  • Write a  Professional Statement
    • 1-2 written pages on professional goals and reasons for seeking admission
  • Graduate degree-seeking applicants must send their official transcript from the undergraduate institution that granted the bachelor’s degree. 
  • International applicants are required to submit a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo score.

Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid

The University provides a comprehensive approach to helping you finance your education. Learn more on the WVU Financial Aid Website.

Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies, and living expenses. Visit the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

Students are encouraged to:
  • File the application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the June deadline to determine eligibility for funding and scholarships.
  • Inquire with your employer about potential financial support for continuing your education.
Tuition per credit hour is listed on the page of your program of interest. Please note, tuition and fees are reviewed and subject to change at the start of each academic year.

Connect with an Admissions Coach

Jessica Carr Online Admissions Coach

(304) 293-6841 jessica.carr1@mail.wvu.edu

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Careers and Employment

The Physical Education Teacher Education degree from the College of Applied Human Sciences prepares teaching professionals to lead healthy and active schools or to work with students in community recreation centers or sports arenas. Students who graduate from WVU Online with a Physical Education Teacher Education M.S. degree will prepare themselves for the following careers:

Career Paths

  • Physical Education Teacher 
  • Adapted Physical Education Specialists
  • Coaches and Scouts
  • Physical Education Professors
  • Education Administrators - Elementary and Secondary
  • Athletic Administrator
  • Athletic Director
  • Physical Education Professor
  • Physical Education Director
  • Physical Education Camp Director
  • Physical Education Writer/Blogger
  • Recreation and Fitness Studies Teacher (postsecondary)
  • Adapted Physical Education Specialist

Get in Touch

The WVU Online team is here for you during your online learning journey. We can help you navigate the curriculum of your program of interest, understand the application process, and keep you posted on upcoming events and deadlines.

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