Graduate Programs

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The graduate program in physical education at SUNY Cortland educates specialists in Adapted Physical Education (APE) or Physical Education Leadership (PEL)  who will be both leaders and advocates of positive change in their fields.

The program emphasizes academic excellence, the pursuit of knowledge, the development of students' critical and analytical abilities, and the application of theory into practice so that the students will assume positions of leadership within the profession.  The program is dedicated to a scholarly environment where students will be able to derive an appreciation of, and an experience in scholarship and service.  Through such an environment, students realize the link between theory, practice, and service.

The Graduate Faculty is dedicated to the delivery of high quality coursework informed by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE), Adaptive Physical Education National Standards (APENS), and the New York State Learning Standards in Physical Education.  Through the infusion of technology in instruction and the promotion of an academic culture appreciative of diversity and the value of physical well-being, faculty seek to prepare individuals who will be on the cutting edge of professional practice.  In addition, it is expected that students will develop the skills necessary to become innovators and change agents for the advancement of the field of physical education.  Finally, the program encourages the development of individuals who value a lifelong love of learning and the process of scholarly inquiry.

Graduate Programs

Physical Education Leadership

This program is being updated. Please contact the Physical Education Graduate Coordinator for more information.

Master of Science for Teachers in Physical Education

This program is for individuals who have completed a Bachelor's degree in a subject other than Physical Education and leads to initial certification in P.E. Inspire today's youth to enjoy the benefits of an active and healthy life. Be a positive role model for people of all ages. Share your love of physical activity and fitness with upcoming generations. Become a leader and advocate for constructive change in the physical education profession by studying for the Master of Science for Teachers in Physical Education at SUNY Cortland. Your graduate-level coursework is informed by the highest standards, including those of the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America), Adapted Physical Education National Standards (APENS) and the New York State Learning Standards in Physical Education. The M.S.T. program is an on-campus program.

Choose from the following tracks:

  • Track A: MST Physical Education Initial Certificate (not previously certified)
  • Track B: MST Physical Education Certificate (previously certified in another subject area)

For more information about any PE graduate program contact: Helena Baert at 607-753-5618.


Be sure to download the Graduate Advisement Manual.