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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.

As Mountaineer Graduation Day approaches, we honor CPASS seniors who will participate in a virtual ceremony on May 16. Upon reflecting on their experiences at WVU, the students recognize faculty and staff for their unwavering support and expertise. They are thankful for hands-on learning, internships and teaching opportunities to prepare them for life after graduation. They are clear on their goals, passion and love for Mountaineer Nation and the friends they have discovered.

Aryaunna Mosley credits her professors within Mountaineer Nation for nurturing her vision and dreams while inspiring her to stay at WVU to pursue her master's degree. Mosley, from Charleston, WV, is finishing her first year of graduate school in Sport Management, after completing her undergraduate degree at WVU.  

Mosley appreciates that everyone within WVU brings something unique to the table. “They make the statement 'Mountaineers Go First' a reality every day, with top educators who are constantly pushing their students to succeed while encouraging their passions. It was that mentality that led me to make the decision of staying at WVU for my master's degree,” she explained.

Julia Merwin is set to graduate this May from West Virginia University with a major in Sport and Exercise Psychology. While at WVU, Merwin was a student-athlete and member of the women’s gymnastics team. Additionally, she became certified personal trainer because of her interest in health and fitness. 

Merwin, from Frederick, Maryland, selected the SEP major during the enrollment process at WVU. “After being in the SEP major, I have learned many valuable things that applied to my sport and personal training,” said Merwin.  

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. 

Candice Brown, senior sport and exercise psychology major at West Virginia University, received the American Kinesiology Association Undergraduate Student Award for 2019-20 for the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences.

Brown, from Chapmanville, W.Va., was overwhelmed after hearing of her award nomination. “I am extremely honored and grateful to be selected for this award, but I attribute most of my success to my loving family, friends and mentors. Without their constant encouragement and support, I do not believe I would be where I am today.