Graduate Certificate in Physical Education (PreK–8 or 5–12)

The Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development offers a graduate certificate program for qualified post-baccalaureate students who are interested in receiving Initial Licensure as a Teacher of Physical Education, PreK–8 or 5–12. Students who are successful in completing this program will develop the knowledge and skills necessary as a beginning teacher of physical education. Specifically, the learning outcomes are as follows.

Students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a strong foundation in discipline specific content knowledge and competence.
• Apply evidence-based practice in their field.
• Be effective practitioners.
• Demonstrate an increased disposition towards curiosity and self-reflection.
• Collaborate within the community to enhance the total well-being of the populations with whom they work.
• Be a resource to others and advocate for making positive changes in the field and the community.

For those students successful in completing all the courses and practica in this graduate certificate program, the Wheelock College of Education & Human Development provides a recommendation for licensure to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Office of Educator Licensure. Students must also apply directly to the DESE and are required to take additional tests (Massachusetts Test for Educational Licensures [MTELs]) to secure licenses.

Requirements for Licensure as Teacher of Physical Education, PreK–8 or 5–12

Please note, prior coursework may be submitted for review to determine equivalency. If determined to be equivalent, required courses listed may be waived as a part of the graduate certificate program.

The following courses are required for the graduate certificate:

Total Requirements: 31

• WED CE 705 Lifespan Development (3 units)
• WED ED 502/503 Analyzing Foundations of Teaching (2 units)
• WED HE 720 Selected Problems in Health Education (4 units)
• WED HE 722 Curriculum Development for Health, Movement, and Wellness (4 units)
• WED PE 502 Movement and Physical Activities in Schools (2 units)
• WED PE 506 Motor Development: Considerations for Planning Movement (4 units)
• WED PE 513 Practical Applications in PE and HE (4 units)
• WED PE 580 PE Student Teaching PreK–8 or PE 582 PE Student Teaching 5–12 (8 units)