Major in Physical Education and Sport Studies

The graduate major in Physical Education and Sport Studies is designed to provide students advanced education in specialized areas related to the scientific basis of physical education, sport, and sport management. Knowledge and skills related to the teaching of physical education, sport management, sport sociology, motor behavior, strength and conditioning, research methods and statistics; and other associated areas are obtained through prescribed and elective course work, independent study, and laboratory and (internship) field experience.

The graduate programs in Curriculum and Instruction in Sport and Physical Education are designed for students interested in the study and practice of teaching sport and physical activity. Coursework in instructional strategies, curriculum theory and design, issues and trends in pedagogical research, adapted physical education, and systematic observation of teaching provide students with the latest information on teaching sport and physical education. The program also offers ample opportunities for field work and research laboratory experience. The M.Ed. and M.A. programs are structured to serve the needs of future and practicing teachers, while the Ed.D. and Ph.D. programs degrees serve those who aspire to become researchers and teacher educators in physical education.

Sports Studies offers three distinct graduate programs. The M.Ed. emphasis in Sport Management is designed to provide the candidate with the qualifications for management in the sport industry. The four major settings served are intercollegiate sport administration, professional sport administration, facility and event management, and sport organization management. Candidates may specialize in the business/finance, communication, management, or marketing/promotions areas of employment in these settings.

The M.A. emphasis in sport history and sport sociology is designed to prepare scholars to be distinctive leaders and researchers in respective fields. The M.Ed. emphasis in Law and Sport Studies Joint Degree is to provide students interested in a thorough understanding of the law and those wishing a leadership role in the expanding areas of compliance, licensing, sport agency, and opportunities in other areas that incorporate these disciplines.