Distance Learning Physical Education Degree Programs

When most people of a degree in physical education (also known as P.E. or phys ed), they usually imagine students being involved in physical activities. However, distance learning physical education degree programs, usually master's degrees earned online, don't generally involve that type of participation. However, a few do expect the student to spend some time on campus and others may require an internship.

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Distance Learning Master's Degrees in Physical Education

There are three master's degrees available in physical education through distance learning, the M.S., M.Ed. and M.A. These programs are usually intended for certified P.E. teachers who need a master's degree to fulfill requirements for professional advancement. Most distance learning programs are basic P.E. programs, but some include a specialization.

Basic Distance Learning Physical Education Master's Degrees

Basic master's degree programs in physical education are primarily for teachers of school-based phys ed programs. They are planned to improve the teacher's skills and assist them in enhancing current curricula. Some programs offer thesis or research options, others offer neither. Classes that some universities include as part of the core curriculum are considered electives in other colleges. Topics that are common to many programs include:

  • Curriculum design for specific content
  • Issues and trends in physical education
  • Measurement and assessments
  • Physical education teaching methods
  • Research design and reporting
  • Supervision in physical education

Distance Learning Physical Education Degrees with a Specific Focus

Although distance learning P.E. degrees with a specific focus cover much of the same material as courses for basic programs do, they also require extra courses in the chosen area of the specialization. Some of the specializations with courses unique to them are listed.

Distance Learning Physical Education Degrees with a Focus on Coaching

These programs generally have several objectives. The most obvious is to help those who are already coaching build new skills to become more effective. Another common objective is to teach coaches to investigate coaching strategies and communicate them to others. Some of the courses in this specialty include:

  • Coaching techniques
  • Legal issues
  • Research methods
  • Sport psychology
  • Training and conditioning

Distance Learning Physical Education Degrees with a Focus on Exercise Science

Although exercise science programs are planned with the school teacher in mind, this focus prepares them for other careers also. These include athletic trainer, aerobics instructor, exercise physiologist, biomechanist and specialist in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Specific courses may be:

  • Concepts of motion
  • Exercise physiology
  • Kinesiology
  • Motor learning
  • Teaching lifetime fitness

Distance Learning Physical Education Degrees with a Focus on Adapted Physical Education

Many distance learning physical education degree programs offer a course in adapted physical education, as most teachers will at some point work with a student who has a disability. An internship or field practicum is a required part of this degree. Some of the specialized courses include:

  • Adapted Physical Education
  • Assessments of movement
  • Disability sports
  • Exercise science
  • Professional and family liaisons in special education
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