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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.

The newest faculty member in the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences envisions expanding the foundation of the innovative Health and Well-being major. Emily Murphy will serve as associate professor with tenure, beginning August 14, 2020.

Murphy says the major is important at both an individual and community level. “I am excited to teach the next generation of wellness professionals about the various ways we can develop, maintain and improve health and wellbeing for people across the lifespan. Within this program, we can help to ensure that the communities that we live, play, pray and work promote health and well-being,” said Murphy.

All aspiring physical education students in the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Physical Education and Kinesiology (PEK) program have overcome a crucial hurdle as they prepare to follow their dreams to teach in the classroom. In the spring of 2020, CPASS teacher candidates recorded the highest national pass rate in their first attempt for their compulsory teacher preparation program.

Students are required to pass edTPA, a performance-based, subject-specific assessment and support system used by teacher training programs throughout the United States. edTPA focuses on the skills and knowledge that all teachers need from day one in the classroom.

Erin Jordan has joined the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences as a teaching assistant professor and program coordinator in the college's new Health and Well-being major. Jordan will work closely with Office of Student Success staff and Emily Murphy, associate professor and new HWB faculty member, to build an environment that promotes student growth and success.

Jordan, from Clearfield, PA, will guide the college in establishing the new program within WVU. The CPASS Health and Well-being program is designed for students with a passion for helping others and who have an interest in a health sciences career. The program provides students with a flexible track toward careers such as nursing, athletic training, physical and occupational therapy or chiropractic.

The College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences has recognized the recipients of the 2019-2020 outstanding teaching, research and service faculty and staff awards, as announced by Dean Jack Watson.  

“I’m especially proud of the faculty and staff who were recognized this academic year for their passion, innovation and expertise. Their outstanding dedication to the college, West Virginia University, the state and beyond is unparalleled. As we end this semester and look ahead, I have no doubt that their Mountaineer values will help guide us through the current challenges, as we navigate these uncertain times,” said Watson.  

WVU appoints Morris, Watson as deans through 2022

During a time of transition and uncertainty, two experienced West Virginia University administrators currently serving as interim deans will be given extended appointments to continue their service to their colleges. 

Renowned specialists in the field of strength and conditioning and sport science will participate in the third annual National Strength and Conditioning Association West Virginia State Clinic, featuring speakers typically found on a national platform. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry professionals from a range of specialties.

The event, scheduled for April 3-4, 2020 on the West Virginia University campus, WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Human Performance Innovation Center, will highlight cutting-edge research and application.

Dancers often face the same difficulties in their training and performance as athletes: physical and mental barriers, including nerves, anxiety and self-doubt. While coaches and instructors work with their students through physical challenges, internal barriers can be tougher to overcome.

West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences alumnae Ashley Cranney (2016) and Chelsea Wooding (2014) have first-hand experience with these challenges. The book, “Every Count Matters: Mindset Training for Dancers,” utilizes their background in competitive dance and mental performance to reach dancers of all styles and skill levels.

An upcoming WVU Abroad trip will highlight the business facets of sport in Europe. Students participating in the summer 2020 study abroad adventure will visit Ireland, England and France.

Students will gain firsthand experience about the European sport model and club sports unique to Europe during the May 17-28, 2020 trip.

Students in the college’s sport and exercise psychology program are learning key concepts in the classroom with the help of digital media. As time and technology progress, faculty members are using different platforms to support networking in the sport industry. 

Dr. Scott Barnicle, teaching assistant professor and program coordinator, sport and exercise psychology, has played an instrumental role in the application of digital media within the classroom. Barnicle has applied a variety of techniques at WVU, including Skype, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.