Leadership in Physical Education and Movement Studies, Master of Education

If you have a prior degree in physical education, sport and movement science or exercise science and you want to start a career as a physical education teacher, this is the path for you.

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Program Requirements

Program Overview

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. Most courses are offered online and include several hybrid courses. We offer the individual attention you need to support your professional growth. 

  • 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. All of 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 is designed to provide students with the skills and confidence needed 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 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 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). 

Explore Pathways to a Career in Physical Education

Salem State University two unique pathways to prepare you for the next steps in your career as a physical education teacher: 

Physical Education Program Options

  • MAT physical education program: for those seeking to obtain initial license to teach elementary or secondary physical education 

  • MEd leadership in physical education and movement studies program: for physical educators who hold an initial license and are seeking to become eligible for a professional licensure in physical education. 

If you have any questions about which program would be the best fit for you, please reach out to graduate admissions.

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