Special (Adapted) Physical Education

Helping a special population do incredible things

Do you have a passion for working with young people with special needs? Want to help improve their lives through physical education? The Special (Adapted) Physical Education master's program at WMU satisfies these passions and more. Students receive a comprehensive physical education immersion experience that prepares them to emerge as experts in the field of special/physical education.

Why Special (Adapted) Physical Education (MA) at Western Michigan University?

This unique program, offered by WMU's Department of Human Performance and Health Education and entirely funded by the U.S. Department of Education, prepares students for jobs that are increasingly in-demand throughout the United States. The program is conducted almost entirely online.

Program benefits

• Graduates will gain knowledge, skills and experience teaching fundamental motor skills, patterns, and physical and motor fitness to students with disabilities. Skills in aquatic, dance, individual and group games and sports, and leisure and recreational skills are also addressed.
• Online coursework can be completed anywhere. Face-to-face components can be completed at colleges near you (with advisor approval).
• Program capstone can be either a Thesis or research.
• This government-funded program may offer funding, in some cases, for the full cost of the program. Contact for application information.

What about certification?

With a valid teaching certificate in physical education or special education (depending on certification in state of residence), graduates may be endorsed to teach physical education for children with disabilities. Learn more about the teacher certification process in Michigan.

Who should apply

Anyone who holds a related bachelor's degree, with or without a teaching certificate, who desires to teach physical education to young people with special needs should apply to this program.

Career opportunities

This program prepares professionals to teach physical education to young people with special needs or to supervise others who do the same.