Return to: Programs A-Z

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. In addition to those admissions criteria for all M.A.T. programs, candidates for the M.A.T. Physical Education Program must:

• Submit a qualifying score on either the Graduate Record Exam (target is at least a 400 verbal and 400 quantitative) or the Miller Analoqies Test (target is at least 385)
• At least two professional letters of reference
• A one to two page letter of intent where you outline your career goals

Degree Requirements (45 Hours)

Graduate course requirements include: