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Physical Education - Master of Science (M.S.)

This program is designed to prepare individuals without previous professional education to meet New York state initial teacher certification in grades preschool through 12 physical education. This is a comprehensive program providing course work and field experiences across a variety of school settings. Graduates from this program are eligible for professional certification after two years of successful teaching experience and an approved mentoring relationship as described by the New York State Education Department Regulations.

The mission of the Master of Science in Physical Education is to prepare scholarly and innovative practitioners specializing in preschool through the secondary level physical education. Attention is focused on the development and implementation of physical activity content through theory and field-based experiences. Individuals are provided with the means and understandings necessary to effectively teach basic movement, motor, rhythm, and sport skills for increased physical activity. Lectures and course work promote an understanding of teaching and learning philosophies, implementation strategies, and the means used to assess lesson outcomes for different populations of students, including those living in low economic situations and having disabilities or special-needs. Importance is also placed in theories and learning experiences that promote cooperation, respect for diversity, and social responsibility within the school environment and local community. Technological applications for teaching and learning are applied throughout the program.

  • Admission Requirements
  • Program Requirements

Admission Requirements

Applications for admission to the Master of Science (M.S.) in Physical Education Program in the Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences are made to the Graduate Admissions Office. Admission is based on a comprehensive review of multiple criteria, including the following:

  1. Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution.
  2. Undergraduate grade point average of 2.75.
  3. Two letters of recommendation addressing the applicant’s potential to succeed in the teaching profession and in graduate work.
  4. A brief typed statement indicating the applicant’s interest in the program, and identifying any previous physical education teaching experience or sport involvement.
  5. Interview with Graduate Program Director.

The faculty of the Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences recognize that any single criterion may not reliably predict a candidate’s potential for success in a graduate program and in the teaching profession. Accordingly, candidates are welcome to apply if they do not meet one of the criteria but believe that other aspects of their experience may compensate.

Program Requirements

  • Program Requirements - 36-39 Semester Hours
  • Physical Education Content Courses - 30 semester hours (15 credits of this content is satisfied in the master of science degree program)
  • Content Core Courses – 15 Semester Hours
  • Pedagogical Core Courses – 18 Semester Hours
  • Student Teaching – 3-6 Semester Hours

For more in-depth information, please visit the Hofstra Bulletin.
To apply to this program, please visit the Office of Graduate Admission.