Students in the Kinesiology and Physical Education (KPE) programs pursue Teacher Certification, Exercise Science or Athletic Training. Each career preparation path leads to a thorough physiological, mechanical and developmental understanding of human health and physical performance. Upon graduation, students become teachers, coaches, fitness specialists/administrators, athletic trainers or pursue advanced degrees in allied health fields such as: physical therapy, chiropractic medicine, physician or physician’s assistant.
Students in KPE use state-of-the-art metabolic and biomechanical analysis systems to develop their understanding of human work capacity and movement. They practice with the latest applications and modalities for injury evaluation and rehabilitation. In a number of applied settings, students work a wide variety of age groups and physical abilities gaining valuable “hands on” experience. This degree program is approved by the Maine Department of Education and accredited by the National Council of Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Teacher Certification
Teacher Certification emphasizes putting theory into practice. Even before they begin student teaching, students are active participants in K-12 physical education programs. In learning effective strategies, students teach individual and small group lessons, videotape their sessions, and receive individual analysis and feedback from faculty and peers.
Exercise Science
Students in the Exercise Science program have the option of following one of two tracts. The first is a laboratory science based program designed to prepare students for post-graduate study in various fields of allied health. The science course work in this tract can be tailored to fit the specific admission requirements of future schools targeted by the student. In the second tract, students can achieve a minor in Business Management. With this background, they graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue management positions in the fields of fitness, athletics or allied health.
Athletic Training
Athletic Training is designed to provide a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology, health and other academic subjects necessary for effective prevention, recognition, evaluation and management of injuries and illnesses. Students work directly with UMaine and community Certified Athletic Trainers over four years, completing 800 hours of supervised, hands-on experiences. Upon successful completion of requirements, students are eligible to apply for the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Board of Certification examination. Athletic Training is also a gateway to other allied careers and to graduate study. The Athletic Training Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
Information regarding admissions guidelines for the athletic training program is available on the web at www.umaine.edu/edhd/academic/ugrad/at.htm . This site will explain competitive admissions, transfer student policy, and technical standards.
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