Master’s in Physical Education Online

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Before students get into the nitty-gritty of what they will study through online master’s in physical education degree programs or choose their specialization, they must select a university and program that meets their needs and is among the best. OMC teams have compiled a list of some of the best online master’s in physical education programs, taking into account a variety of criteria, including accreditation, tuition fees, financial aid, admission requirements, program requirements, graduation rates, and more. Here are the best master’s in physical education programs in the U.S.: 

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Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

A master’s in physical education online allows for a flexible learning option for physical educators. While an offline option works best if one finds a university in their region and is not looking to continue working while they study, an online physical education degree allows one to choose to study outside of their state without giving up their job.  

Many universities offer a fully online model, allowing students to continue their work without too much disruption. Meanwhile, a hybrid model will enable them to choose when and where to complete their coursework, allowing them to harmonize work and study. Most universities offer a two-year MPE degree, and credit hours can range from 33 to 40, depending on the delivery model and specialization one chooses. Some online programs provide a unique option that allows students to collaborate with their peers through virtual learning software on large-scale projects. Programs can also offer the opportunity to reduce the number of credit hours by including a thesis. 

Master’s in Physical Education Degree Types

An online physical education master’s offers some flexibility when it comes to both specializations and the type of degree students can choose to take up. Students can choose from three degree types – the Master of Arts, the Master of Science, and the Master of Education. 

The GRE and GMAT are two of the primary ways in which universities assess students’ abilities and potential, apart from the Grade Point Average (GPA). Many universities do not ask for a GRE or GMAT score during admission as they give more weightage to the incoming student’s interest level and work experience in physical education. For example, Hofstra University, Canisius College, and the University of South Florida offer online master’s in physical education no GRE programs. 

Accelerated master’s in physical education online allow students to complete their degree programs faster than the usual two years. This is especially useful for online students, as online courses typically take more time, especially if students are enrolled part-time. A fast-tracked program allows students to move forward more quickly in their chosen career or to study without taking an extended break from work. While some universities offer the option of reducing the number of hours of coursework by completing a thesis, others offer accelerated programs that can be completed in less than 2 years by combing the master’s degree with the bachelor’s. These programs allow students to each both degrees in about 5 years, instead of the usual 6 years. Suny Brockport is an excellent example of a university offering such programs. 

Free master’s in physical education online courses are an excellent way to enhance one’s knowledge and expertise in the physical education space. Although most free courses are not accredited or recognized by the industry, they still are helpful for gaining additional insights into the subject. Here are a few platforms offering free courses suitable for online master’s in physical education students: 

The cost of a master’s in physical education degree online can work out to be less than an offline program, but there are still various factors that influence the overall costs. Tuition fees for an online MPE degree can vary from about $300 per credit hour to about $700, depending on the college. These prices may become a barrier for students looking to further their education. Fortunately, several funding options are available to students to reduce their financial burden, some of which are: 

Scholarships 

Scholarships are available to many students pursuing an online master’s degree in physical education. They are usually awarded based on merit, with the amount determined by gender, minority status, major chosen, and academic achievements. Students must exercise caution when they apply and avail of scholarships, as there are numerous scholarship scams. 

Grants

In simple terms, grants are support usually in the form of cash and do not need to be returned or paid back. Grants can be offered based on various criteria, including race, ethnicity, gender, and disability, but are mostly given based on the applicant’s financial need.

Graduate Assistantships 

A Graduate Assistantship is an excellent option for students looking to earn while they complete their studies. While a Graduate Teaching Assistant usually works with a faculty member, helping with grading, organizing teaching material, etc., a Graduate Research Assistant can be assigned to a specific research project being conducted at the university under the guidance of a mentor. Students are given a stipend or tuition fee waiver/discount in exchange for their work. 

FAFSA 

FAFSA, short for Free Application for Federal Student Aid, can help students mark down the price of a master’s in physical education. Students can apply to FAFSA to check their eligibility for financial aid from the federal government. 

Read the Financial Aid Guide to understand and choose the most appropriate financial aid. 

Scholarships are the ideal way to offset the high costs of university education. Scholarships can be influenced by various factors, including minority status, gender, and professional orientation, but are frequently based on academic achievements. Here are a few examples: 

JCC Professional Development Scholarship Program 

The JCC Scholarship Program is designed to assist current full-time Jewish Community Center (JCC) professionals in deepening and expanding their professional knowledge to advance their careers at a Jewish Community Center or Jewish Community Camp. 

Award/Amount

Up to $20,000 

Application Deadline   

Closed for 2023 | TBA for 2023 

Amarillo Area Foundation College Scholarships 

The Amarillo Area Foundation provides several scholarships to high school students and undergraduate and graduate students under varying circumstances and criteria. 

Award/Amount 

Varies 

Application Deadline 

Varies 

Mary Lampe Scholarship 

The Mary Lampe Scholarship is awarded to professionals, and undergraduate & full-time graduate students, who wish to enhance their professional/educational endeavors. 

Award/Amount

Varies 

Application Deadline   

April 15, annually 

After completing a physical education online master’s, graduates can look forward to enhanced job prospects in a range of industries. Those already working as educators can look forward to improved pay grades but also choose to specialize in working to fit curricula to the needs of people with physical disabilities, for example. The sports industry also has plenty of scope for careers for students who have completed an online master’s in physical education. 

Graduating students can find positions as directors, administrators, and department heads within the sports industry. Those more interested in research and the health industry can find jobs working with medical research teams to include physical activity, find ways to prevent and cure lifestyle diseases, and more. Educators can also expand their careers to take on the role of athletic leadership in educational institutions, promoting physical activity and wellness practices among the student population. 

Here are a few typical roles physical education graduates take up, along with their median annual salary and job outlook, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): 

A certification proves that one possesses the necessary qualifications, expertise, and skills in a particular discipline. Most online master’s in physical education degree programs have certification built in. However, certification and physical education teacher licensure vary by state; each state has distinct criteria that a candidate must fulfill. Furthermore, certification and licensure go hand in glove in that one leads to the other. To obtain certification in physical education, one would require to: 

• complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree in physical education; 
• complete a teacher preparation program; 
• pass the state examination (usually the Praxis II test); and 
• obtain concomitant certifications. 

Exact eligibility criteria, requirements, and state certification information are available on teachingcertification.com. 

Many online resources are available, adding to one’s educational background and providing new ideas and creative inputs to one’s work. A master’s in physical education online can be followed up or bolstered with a range of free and valuable information by networking with like-minded people, attending webinars and seminars, and exchanging ideas in forums. Here are a few valuable resources for physical education students and professionals that can be of use:  

1. SHAPE America – Society of Health and Physical Educators – SHAPE America provides PE lesson plans that help professionals create effective programs for physical education in schools that align with SHAPE America’s National Standards & Grade-Level Outcomes for K-12 Physical Education. 
2. OPEN Online Physical Education Network – Open provides physical education lessons, comprehensive curriculum tools for physical educators, and inspiration for professional development.
3. The PE Specialist – The PE Specialist provides a vast bank of blogs and articles on classroom management strategies, teaching tips, lesson ideas, technology resources, games & activities, and more. 
4. Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction – The Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction has a wealth of resources for distant learners, family & home learning, etc., and on topics of wellness, safety, nutrition, sexual health, social-emotional health, and more.