Master of Science in Health Physical Education Teaching

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Wayne State University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Health and Physical Education Teaching at Wayne State University is designed for educators seeking advanced knowledge and professional development in health and physical education. The program focuses on health education, physical activity, teaching methods and curriculum development, preparing graduates to promote healthy lifestyles and improve student learning in educational settings.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop advanced knowledge through KIN 5100 – Anatomical and Physiological Bases of Physical Activity, KIN 6110 – Motor Learning and Development and HPE 6200 – Management and Instruction in Health and Physical Education. They also explore fitness, sports, health curriculum and instructional technology.

Year 2: Students strengthen their teaching expertise through HPE 6210 – Curriculum and Instruction in Health and Physical Education, HPE 6400 – Physical Activity in Pediatric Disabilities and HE 6360 – Performance Based Assessment. Depending on their concentration, students may complete supervised teaching or adapted physical education practicum experiences.

Note: The program has four concentrations with different credit requirements (30–64 credits); the university does not prescribe a fixed two-year sequence.

Focus Areas

Health education, physical education, exercise science, motor development, fitness and sports, health curriculum, adapted physical education, student assessment.

Learning Outcomes

Develop health and physical education curricula, apply developmentally appropriate teaching methods, assess physical and health-related skills, use instructional technology, promote physical activity, support learners with disabilities, manage physical education programmes.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program aligns with Michigan Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (MI InTASC) Model Core Teaching Standards and Michigan-specific health and physical education teacher preparation standards. Selected pathways support Michigan K–12 teacher certification or an Adapted Physical Education endorsement.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

Wayne State University's Division of Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies offers specialised graduate pathways in health, physical education and adapted physical education. The program includes professional coursework and practical experiences, including a four-month full-time clinical experience for the initial certification pathway. No specific programme-level employment statistics or employability rankings are published in the reviewed official sources.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Wayne State University, the Master of Science in Health and Physical Education Teaching program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for developing practical skills in the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning through a variety of engaging opportunities, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students are well-equipped to become effective educators and advocates for health and physical education.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Internships: Students participate in supervised teaching internships that provide valuable classroom experience and mentorship from experienced educators.
- Field Experiences: The program includes field trips to local schools and community organizations, allowing students to observe and engage with diverse teaching environments.
- Research Laboratories: Access to specialized laboratories for research in exercise science and health education, where students can conduct experiments and analyze data.
- Digital Tools: Students utilize advanced software for data analysis and educational planning, enhancing their ability to integrate technology into their teaching practices.
- Collaborative Projects: Group projects foster teamwork and communication skills, as students work together to develop lesson plans and health promotion initiatives.
- Libraries and Resources: The university's extensive library system provides access to a wealth of academic journals, books, and digital resources relevant to health and physical education.
- Health and Physical Education Institute: This dedicated institute offers additional resources, workshops, and networking opportunities for students pursuing careers in health and physical education.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an Master of Science in Health and Physical Education Teaching at Wayne State University opens the door to a rewarding career dedicated to promoting health and wellness in educational settings. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for various roles, including Health and Physical Education Teacher, Athletic Coach, Curriculum Developer, and Wellness Coordinator. The skills and knowledge gained here will empower you to make a significant impact in the lives of students and the broader community:

- University Services: Wayne State offers robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs specifically tailored for education majors. The Office of Career Services also connects students with potential employers in the health and education sectors.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from Wayne State's education programs have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average salary for health and physical education teachers in Michigan is around $55,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience and take on leadership roles.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Wayne State has established partnerships with local schools, community organizations, and health agencies, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances their employability.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that your degree meets high standards and is recognized nationally, which can enhance your job prospects.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the MS in Health and Physical Education Teaching program report high levels of satisfaction with their education and career readiness, often moving into leadership positions within their schools and communities.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MS in Health and Physical Education Teaching, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) or a Ph.D. in Kinesiology or Educational Leadership. These advanced degrees can open doors to higher-level administrative roles, research opportunities, or faculty positions at universities, allowing you to shape the future of health and physical education.