Interdisciplinary Graduate Certificate in Adapted Physical Education (APE) and Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS)

Graduate certificate in ape and pbis

child playing wheelchair basketball

Apply NowRequest infoCourses

 

Admissions requirements

  • Bachelor's degree and teaching certificate in Physical Education or Special Education.
  • One page statement explaining applicant’s interest in this certificate.
  • Three professional letters of reference.

Program overview

This program is offered fully online.

This Interdisciplinary graduate certificate is designed for teaching children with severe disabilities in a combined program structured in a way that allows students to develop professional competencies through the completion of a fully online program. The program prepares teachers to provide quality APE and PBIS services for K-12 children with severe disabilities in APE and SE classes. The program includes 27 credit hours or 9 courses. 

Why this program at Western Michigan University

  • Program completion leads to endorsement to teach APE for children with severe disabilities in physical education classes and/or provide PBIS service for children with severe disabilities in special education classes (for graduates with a valid teaching certificate in physical education or special education)
  • Students are encouraged to pursue additional educational opportunities through one of our many excellent study abroad programs, such as Discover Croatia and Venice, Italy: Educational System, Sport and Culture and Education and Health in China and Korea.
  • We are the only institution in the U.S. that includes an optional co-curricular designation known as the WMU Signature. Pathways include: Teaching & Student Success, Leadership, Health & Wellbeing, Diversity, Inclusion, Equity & Justice, and more! 

Who should apply

Current special educators and physical education teachers interested in teaching adapted physical education for children with severe disabilities in physical education classes and/or provide positive behavioral intervention and supports service for children with severe disabilities in special education classes .

Career opportunities

The APE and PBIS certificate prepares you for jobs such as:

  • Physical Educator
  • Behavior Intervention Specialist

Cost & Funding

Helpful links

Faculty