In addition to their coursework, before graduation students must successfully complete one of the following options:
Students will develop an online academic portfolio during their last semester to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities they acquired throughout the program. The portfolio will follow the same format as the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards which is recognized as the “gold standard” in teacher certification. In order to pass the portfolio project, students must show evidence (classwork) that they have mastered the following standards: Knowledge of Students, Knowledge of Subject Matter, Curricular Choices, Wellness within Physical Education, Learning Environment, Diversity and Inclusion, Teaching Practices, Assessment, Reflective Practice, Collaboration and Partnerships, Professional Growth, and Advocacy.
The comprehensive exam is a four-question essay exam. Students will take the exam online during a four hour time span, with their browser locked-down so that no resources can be used to answer the questions. This exam usually occurs about a month before graduation. HPE Faculty will then score the exam as pass or no pass.
A thesis is a research project the student must complete before graduation. Students interested in a thesis option must notify the PE graduate program chair at least a year and a half before graduation. A thesis committee will be developed to assist the student, and the student must take 6 credit hours of thesis as their elective courses.
