Graduate Programs in Physical Education

Master of Science in Education (Physical Education)

With this degree program, choose from three concentrations:

Human Performance Concentration- Admission to this program requires completion of a fourth-year (Bachelors) degree in Exercise Science or a closely-related field. The graduate concentration in Human Performance is designed to prepare students for advanced study in exercise physiology and future employment in strength and conditioning, adult fitness, and wellness and corporate fitness. Special attention is also given to the knowledge and skills necessary for certification (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) and American College Sports Medicine certifications (e.g., Personal Trainer, Health/Fitness Specialist). The Human Performance program prepares graduates for interaction with both healthy populations and populations that are affected by chronic diseases (e.g., CVD, diabetes) and the functional changes that occur during exercise with these populations. This program is completely online and does not lead to teacher certification.

Nutrition Concentration- Admission to this program requires completion of a fourth-year (Bachelors) degree in Exercise Science, Nutrition, or a closely related field. The graduate concentration in Nutrition at Jacksonville State University is designed to prepare students for advanced study in nutrition and future employment in the field of nutrition and related careers in wellness and corporate fitness. Special attention is also given to knowledge and skills necessary for students preparing for the ISSN Certified sport Nutrition exam and potentially preparing for a program leading to becoming a Registered Dietitian. The Nutrition program prepares graduates for interaction with both healthy active populations, and populations that are affected by chronic diseases (e.g.,CVD, diabetes) and the impact of nutritional interventions in these populations. This program is completely online and does not lead to teacher certification.

Teacher Education Concentration- Admission to this program requires clear and renewable teacher certification (Class B certification) in physical education from an accredited institution. Completion of this program leads to eligibility for a Class A teacher certification in physical education (P-12). The MS.Ed. with a major in physical education and a concentration in P-12 Teacher Education is a two-year online program. It may be possible to complete the program requirements in less than two years depending on the frequency of course offerings. The program was designed with current practitioners in mind and is completely online and some classes may require contact with K-12 students so it is helpful, though not required, to be working in a K-12 setting.

Master of Science in Education (Physical Education)- Alternative Fifth Year

This is referred to as the alt-5th year master’s degree. It is intended for candidates already holding a degree, but not a teaching certificate. Typical candidates in this program have some type of kinesiology related background, although it is not required. Many of the students in this program have been working in schools as coaches or staff members, before deciding to get a teaching certificate. This 42 hour program is entirely online, apart from internship (also known as student teaching). Students will be required to earn practicum hours in various courses so they must be able to gain access to a k-12 school. The JSU faculty can arrange for practicum locations near Jacksonville if the student chooses not to make them. Completion leads to eligibility for a class A certificate in Physical Education.

Educational Specialist Degree- Concentration in Physical Education (Ed.S.)

This program is almost completely online as it was created to be convenient for practicing physical educators. The writing and defense of a Problems Paper will require one to four visits to meet with your advisor and/or the graduate faculty. Meetings will be arranged at your convenience. A current 5th year (M.S.Ed.) teaching certificate in physical education is required for admission. Completion leads to eligibility for a 6th year teacher certification, also known as a class AA certificate. The program requires 30-31 hours and can normally be completed in one to three years. There is a six year time limit on accepted coursework. Please note, this is NOT a doctoral degree.

The comprehensive exam consists of an oral presentation/defense of the paper submitted in EFD 692. A student must earn a passing grade on the comprehensive exam to graduate. If a student receives a failing score on the comprehensive exam, he or she may attempt the comprehensive exam in the next semester.

Plans of Study

View Plans of Study and Program Requirements

Want to Learn More?

Contact Dr. Kory Hill, Chair
Physical Education Graduate Program
256-782-5522, khill@jsu.edu