Adapted Physical Education

In today’s schools, physical education teachers must have the knowledge, skills and practical experiences to meet the needs of all students. The 15-credit graduate certificate in Adapted Physical Education is designed to address these needs by increasing the number and capacity of teachers with credentials in adapted physical education for students with physical and/or intellectual disabilities. The program — designed for practicing teachers — features a series of courses built to enhance the use of age- and developmentally-appropriate, evidence-based practices for physical education classes. UMaine’s College of Education and Human Development is committed to cultivating a community of educators engaged in meaningful collaboration to support students of all abilities in obtaining the full benefit of a free, appropriate public education, as well as appropriate access to general education programming, as required by federal law.

This certificate meets the coursework requirements for the Maine Department of Education’s adapted physical education endorsement (515). For specific information regarding certification in Maine, contact Maine DOE. If you are applying from another state, visit your state’s department of education for certification information. In addition to practicing teachers in PK-12 schools, this certificate may be appropriate for people in careers such as adaptive sports instructors, wilderness therapists, athletic administrators and youth program managers.