College of Education - Adapted Physical Education

A female physical education teacher is seated with two female students and all three are stretching. The student on the left is wearing glasses and a pink T-shirt. The student in the right is wearing glasses and a green T-shirt.

Make a difference in your life and theirsAdapted Physical Education Master's

Join the nation's only 100% online program

Ready to advance your professional skills on a path that improves physical education for students of all abilities? Consider a Master’s in Adapted Physical Education from the University of South Carolina.

In the nation’s only 100% online adapted physical education degree program, you’ll have the flexibility to learn at your preferred pace without sacrificing your professional and personal life. Even better? South Carolina certified teachers receive a 10% tuition discount and out-of-state students receive a reduced rate.

A black female physical education teacher stands at the front of a classroom with her hands on her shoulders. Two elementary school-age students are facing her with their hands on their shoulders.

We offer the nation's only 100% online degree program in adapted physical education. You can complete your degree on your time, in as little as one year. Our flexible and affordable online format is rich in learning opportunities that help you reach your career goals while continuing to devote your time and energy to your professional and personal life.

Apply by April 1 to begin the program on May 9 or by July 1 to begin on Aug. 18
GRE not required
South Carolina certified teachers receive a 10% tuition discount and out-of-state students receive a reduced rate.

If you're ready to apply, enter your email address and we'll walk you through the process.

U.S. News and World Report Top 20 Online Master's Programs

An elementary school-aged boy with dark hair and glasses is crawling toward the camera on a white gym mat.

Cultivate compassion. Reach new heights. Make a difference.

Developed by our highly qualified faculty who are experts in their field, our curriculum meets coursework requirements to complete the Certified Adapted Physical Educator (CAPE) exam. Our graduates are well-prepared with the knowledge, tools and support needed to feel confident teaching children of varying abilities and ensure all students find personal meaning and enrichment.

A black male physical education teacher is standing in a gym in front of two elementary school-aged students.

More than just a degree.

You will not be on your own as you complete this program. A dedicated faculty advisor and student services staff will support you every step of the way. Even though you may not be on campus, you will be part of a dynamic and connected learning community, interacting with instructors and classmates from around the country. And, courses are taught by award-winning faculty who are leaders in the field of adapted physical education.

A middle-aged man is seated at a table in front of a laptop and is waving at the laptop screen.

Reach your goal.

After you graduate, a wide range of professional opportunities are available to you.

Instruct children with disabilities in a physical education setting
Become a traveling adapted PE teacher
Coach general or adapted sporting teams and athletes
Sit for the Certified Adapted Physical Educator certificate
Seek an Adapted Physical Education add-on endorsement or certificate

Licensure and certification requirements vary by state.

Three children dressed in shorts and tennis shoes stand in a row, jumping on a gym floor.

EXPLORE HOW AN M.S. DEGREE IN

ADAPTED PHYSICAL EDUCATION

CAN FURTHER YOUR CAREER

I'm learning things that apply to my current students while I am teaching them. If I see something that I think would work, I can try it out the next day in class and use my experiences to frame my knowledge in my classes. The coursework transfers seamlessly into my teaching and coaching.

Courtney Dolan, 2021 alumna