Online Graduate Certificate in Adapted Physical Education
The online Graduate Certificate in Adapted Physical Education provides physical education teachers with the knowledge, skills, and practical experiences needed to meet the needs of students with physical and/or intellectual disabilities.
This program cultivates a community of educators engaged in meaningful collaboration to support students of all abilities in obtaining the full benefit of free public education as well as appropriate access to general education programming.
Learning Outcomes
Upon earning a Graduate Certificate in Adapted Physical Education, students will be able to:
- Develop a robust understanding of legislation directly impacting individuals with disabilities
- Conduct accurate and comprehensive assessments of motor skill performance
- Design lessons centered on the principles of Universal Design for Learning
- Participate in extensive practical experiences by providing direct assessment and instruction to PK-12 students with disabilities
Curriculum
The Graduate Certificate in Adapted Physical Education is designed for practicing teachers. It features a series of courses built to enhance the use of age- and developmentally-appropriate, evidence-based practices for physical education classes.
Required Courses
The following courses are required (9 credits):
Electives
Choose at least one of the following courses (3 credits):
Admissions
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in physical education or other related subject
- State of Maine K-12 Physical Education Teacher Certification (510) and Athletic Training or equivalent certification in another state
- The ability to complete required assignments and practicum with students in PK-12 classrooms
Application Materials
We have rolling admissions so you can apply and be accepted into the program at any time. When you are ready to apply, please first review the application instructions. Then submit the following:
- Online application
- Official academic transcripts from all institutions attended
- Copy of current teaching certificate or endorsement
- 300-500 word essay based on the following prompt
- Current resume or CV
Contact Us
Have questions about earning your Graduate Certificate in Adapted Physical Education online with UMaine? Contact Amanda Cupps, UMaineOnline Senior Advisor, at 207.581.3452 or amanda.cupps@maine.edu.
Careers
In addition to practicing teachers in PK-12 schools, this certificate is appropriate for people in careers such as adaptive sports instructors, wilderness therapists, athletic administrators, and youth program managers.
This certificate meets the coursework requirements for the Maine Department of Education’s Adapted Physical Education (515) endorsement.
Earning a certification or endorsement in other states through this program may be very simple. Please visit your state’s Department of Education for information or visit the United States Department of Education website. Specific information regarding Maine certification is available through the Maine Department of Education.
Faculty
Our outstanding faculty has a wealth of research and practical knowledge to help working educators and other professionals address current challenges in education and improve the human condition. The Graduate Certificate in Adapted Physical Education program courses are taught by faculty from our School of Kinesiology, Physical Education, and Athletic Training and our School of Learning and Teaching.
NC-SARA Statement
This program will prepare students to be eligible for licensure within the State of Maine. Visit the UMS State Authorization & Licensure page to learn more about the licensure requirements in other states and territories, in addition to the contact information needed to inquire further into the licensure requirements associated with this program.
