The adapted physical education concentration in the Physical Education Department  is designed to provide an opportunity to gain experience and knowledge working with children and adults with disabilities in physical activity settings. This program prepares students in both leadership and practical skills needed to provide optimal physical education to all students.

Practical experiences include but are not limited to sports and games, inclusive outdoor education, dance, aquatics and fitness programs designed specifically for the inclusion of persons with disabilities into existing lifetime fitness, recreation and leisure activity.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

1. Identify and apply discipline-specific scientific and theoretical concepts critical to the development of physically educated individuals.
2. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to demonstrate competent movement performance and health enhancing levels of fitness as delineated in the NASPE K - 12 Standards.
3. Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with local, state, and national standards to address the diverse needs of all students.
4. Demonstrate effective communication and pedagogical skills and strategies to enhance student engagement and learning.
5. Apply assessments and reflection to foster student learning and inform instructional decisions.

Career Potential

• K-12 public school adapted physical education teacher
• Adapted physical education specialists for hospitals, children's centers and community-based programs
• Program director for disability sport and swim-based recreation programs
• District coordinator for adapted physical education services