This program is designed to provide initial physical education certification to U.S. candidates with bachelor’s degrees in academic majors other than physical education, e.g., kinesiology, exercise science, health and wellness or sport administration. Once you complete certification requirements, you will be prepared to teach physical education for grades K-12.
Since the program is completed at the graduate level, you can then complete a master’s degree with three additional courses. A master’s degree is required in New York State for professional certification within five years of initial certification.
Based upon evaluation of undergraduate transcripts, a program will be developed to ensure completion of undergraduate courses needed to meet New York State requirements for teaching physical education. These courses include: movement education, individual games, team games, dance and recreational activities, gymnastics and rhythmic activities, CPR/lifeguard training, and exercise principals.
In addition to the physical education prerequisites described above, completion of 3 credit hours in a foreign language is required for teacher certification in New York State.
The Physical Education Access Programhas a variety of scheduling options. Students may complete course work of up to five courses during a semester on a convenient schedule. For a sample schedule, see our scheduling fact sheet for Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 (PDF).