The graduate program in physical education is designed for postbaccalaureate and in-service physical educators. The theme of the program is "physical educator as decision maker." Training received in this program comes from two areas: the foundations (6 credits) and the program studies area of physical education (25 credits).

Mission: The physical education master's program is designed for in-service physical education teachers. Training received in this program comes from two (2) areas: Foundations (6 credits) and the program studies area of physical education (25 credits). The emphasis in this curriculum is to provide answers to the questions “what I can learn about teaching and what decisions do I face as a professional educator?” students will be assigned an advisor with whom they should consult on a regular basis with advisor approval required for certain coursework.

Types of research conducted by faculty in the program: Dr. Victor Pinheiro's research areas are centered around the following themes: Motor Skill Diagnosis, Instructional Technology and Micro teaching Research. Dr. Sean Cai’s research areas are focused on: teaching strategies, exercise and health, and physical exercise for children with disabilities.

Admissions standards: Full admission to this program is granted to students who have earned a 2.75 grade point average on a completed Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

Provisional admission to this program is granted to students who have earned a 2.5-2.74 grade point average on a completed Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Those receiving provisional admission must meet with the Technical Education Program Committee to plan the necessary 9 credits of course work that need to be completed at the graduate level with a grade of “B” or better before the student can be upgraded to full admission.

Regional and State demand and placement objectives: In 1996, Ohio's General Assembly authorized the establishment of Local Professional Development Committees (LPDCs) and mandated that such be established in every school district and chartered nonpublic school by September 1998 (Ohio Revised Code 3319.22). The purpose of the committees is to review the coursework and other professional development activities proposed and completed by educators within the district to determine if the requirements for renewal of certificates or licenses have been met with the exception of professional pupil services licenses that require credentialing through related licensure boards. (Ohio Department of Education, 2005). This master degree addresses the on-going professional development needs of physical education teachers in the State of Ohio.

Ohio Department of Education. (2005). Local Professional Development Committees (LPDC). Retrieved from the internet February 22, 2005 at http://www.ode.state.oh.us/teaching-profession/teacher/professional_development/LPDC/default.asp

For additional information on this program, contact:

Dr. Victor Pinheiro
Memorial Hall 115
(330) 972-6055