Health, Physical Education and Recreation

Program Description
The HPER Graduate Program exists to provide post-baccalaureate study opportunities leading to a Master of Science degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation. The program provides a specialization in Athletic Training and two areas of emphasis, Sport and Recreation Studies and Sports Science. The overall goal(s) of the graduate program are to provide students with knowledge and experiences which improve the depth and breadth of professional competency, enhance written and oral communication, promote an appreciation for the ways research can inform practice and/or prepare them for advanced study at the doctoral level.

The Athletic Training Education Program (ATEP) at South Dakota State University has developed a 44-credit entry-level graduate program in Athletic Training. The fundamental philosophy of this program is to allow students to complete the coursework and clinical experience necessary for both BOC certification eligibility and initial entry into the profession of athletic training. The program acheived initial accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) in August 2008. This program is not designed for individuals who already have a degree in Athletic Training and/or are eligible for certification in Athletic Training.

The Sport and Recreation Studies emphasis is designed to prepare students for careers in sport and recreation administration and/or to improve their knowledge and expertise as coaches and teachers in leadership positions. Although students do not have to have an undergraduate degree in the field, they should have a genuine desire to advance their teaching, coaching and/or administration in this area.

The Sports Science emphasis is designed to prepare students for competencies in areas of cardiac, pulmonary and muscle physiology, clinical exercise physiology, and strength and conditioning. Research and clinical experience are coordinated through the Applied Physiology Laboratory. Students wishing to begin study in this area should have an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Health Promotion or related field.