Three majors in the West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences continue to earn high rankings while preparing graduates for in-demand careers in the dynamic physical activity and sport industry.
The college offers MS degrees for professional learners that can be completed fully online. These nationally recognized programs have chalked up numerous rankings, highlighting both the value of a degree and quality of the student experience.
“Our online masters programs offer accessible, affordable, and high-quality continuing education opportunities for professional learners. Given our national reputation, we have students completing their degrees in 34 different states, at a time, place and cost that makes sense for them,” said Sean Bulger , professor and associate dean for graduate and online education.
“All online degree programs at West Virginia University feature the academic, student support and networking resources that are only available at a major R1 university. Professional learners have unique academic and professional goals. We do our best to account for those individual differences through the support services that we provide related to enrollment coaching, accessibility, mental health, technology and career development,” Bulger added.
Facilitated by internationally recognized faculty in CPASS and other industry leaders, all online courses are offered in a compressed format that enables students to focus their attention on learning a single content area at a time. A range of technologies are used to connect students with their instructors and course content.
Special attention is also given to how the knowledge and skills developed can be applied to real-world settings. These innovative instructional practices have contributed to many notable recognitions.
Most recently, the Physical Education Teacher Education MS program was featured in the 2020 Best Online Master's in Physical Education Degrees, having received a number one ranking. According to data gathered on the site, graduates of the WVU PETE online MS program reported the highest mid-career salary in comparison to similar degree programs. Graduates of the program are well prepared to lead important societal change in the local schools and communities they serve.
In addition to its many previous accolades, the college’s Sport Coaching MS program was ranked fourth in the 2020 Best Online Masters in Coaching Programs by Best Colleges . Earning a master's degree online is a smart option for many practicing coaches. The program’s focus on long-term athlete development makes it the right fit for community and professional coaches who are working with athletes across all levels of sport.
Long-recognized as a national leader in the field, the Sport Management MS program was ranked in the 25 Best Online Masters in Sport Management Degree Programs by The Best Schools and Top 50 Online Masters in Sport Management Programs by Top Management Degrees. The curriculum includes multiple pathways for students seeking different career outcomes. By engaging in networking opportunities with alumni and other leaders in the industry, Sport Management students can further enhance their marketability and career prospects.