The four-course sequence Graduate Certificate in adapted physical education is designed for individuals who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in working with students with disabilities and are practicing or planning to teach in school-based physical education settings.
Program Highlights
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Current full-time teachers can receive tuition discount on getting the certificate
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Evening courses designed to fit into the schedules of in-service teachers
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Award-winning faculty members provide intimate mentoring
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Courses based on current empirical research that encourages students to think critically about the field
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Adapted Physical Education Teacher
Physical Education Teacher
Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary
Coaches and Scouts
Requirements
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Degree seeking graduate-level students admitted to the certificate program must meet ODU requirements for graduate admission: an earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally-accredited institution or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution. Those whose native language is not English must submit a minimum score of 230 on the computer-based TOEFL or 80 on the TOEFL iBT.
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Individuals not seeking graduate-level degrees admitted to the certificate program must have a completed baccalaureate degree (or equivalent).
Featured Courses
Students will become acquainted with the practices and researching of different disabilities, the learning modes of the exceptional child, and IDEA (the law that advocates free and appropriate education). The course will also examine how to work within the ecosystem surrounding a child with disabilities. A vital component of the course will be the practical application of theory.
This course provides experiences of teaching adapted physical education content in lecture and gymnasium settings. Students will develop an understanding of a broad spectrum of disability related content that is applicable to physical education, and gain a deep knowledge of specific topics within disability studies. General and disability specific teaching strategies will be discussed.
This course covers a combination of motor development and motor learning topics. The course information and structure are designed to optimize practitioners? effectiveness in the classroom and on the field via practical application of motor behavior theories, concepts and principles. Attention is directed toward understanding the acquisition of skills from the fundamental, initial level to the sport-specific, more advanced level, toward optimal age and skill-level practices and developing appropriate motor skill assessments for infants through older adulthood. Past and current research findings are incorporated into each of the course topics.
Cost of Attendance
We believe in providing students with transparent and accessible information about the cost of attendance.
Review the estimated tuition rates for the 2024-25 academic year (subject to change). Other fees are assessed for special services and certain academic programs. Non-resident rates are charged for anyone who is not a current Virginia resident, including international students.
Ways to Fund Your Degree
There are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending Old Dominion University, including scholarships, assistantships, and student loans. For more details about financial aid at Old Dominion, visit the Financial Aid Office page.
Tuition Discount
Current full-time teachers can receive a tuition discount while working toward certificate completion.
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