Department of Exercise Sciences & Recreation
Apex, Room 269Office Hours
Monday - Friday
9 am - 5 pm
Lehman College’s M.S. in Human Performance and Fitness program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and competencies required to function efficiently in the field of exercise science, and physical fitness and wellness. With personal health and fitness occupying much of our nation's attention, a graduate degree that ties together the studies of anatomy, kinesiology, physiology, sports nutrition and other related exercise science disciplines, is an excellent way to tap into a plentiful job market whose goal is the promotion of a healthier nation through exercise and fitness interventions. In addition, the program utilizes the Human Performance Laboratory with its state-of-the-art equipment, and the additional resources of the APEX facility, including its fitness and weight training centers.
The program prepares students for careers in corporate and community fitness programs, health clubs, and similar fitness-related industries. Although the program does not fulfill teacher certification requirements, it is of particular appeal to public school teachers (primary and secondary) in health and physical education, who are required by New York State to obtain a master’s degree for continued employment. Positions in sales or marketing of medical, fitness, sports supplements and sports-related equipment may also be appropriate for students with this degree. In addition, the program prepares students for doctoral programs in areas related to exercise science and carry out research that advances the emerging body of literature in human health, fitness and performance.
Welcome to the Master’s in Education (M.S.Ed.) in Recreation Education program. With the convenient option to attend our courses in 100% distance education format, the program consists of 33-36 credits that is designed to empower educators in the field of leisure and recreation. As positions within parks, recreation, and leisure services continues to grow (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the New York State Department of Labor), the M.S.Ed. in Recreation Education is a vital degree for those who are interested in entering the field for the first time or for those already in the field seeking promotion. Our program offers a unique and engaging curriculum, allowing you to specialize in one of three dynamic options: Recreation and Park Administration (Option A), Therapeutic Recreation Service (Option B), and Physical Education Teachers (Option C).
Flexible Distance Education:
Embrace the future of education with our 100% online format. Attend classes, participate in discussions, and complete assignments from the comfort of your own space, balancing your academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments.
Diverse Specialization Options:
- Option A: Recreation and Park Administration - Explore the complexities of managing recreational spaces and park facilities. Gain insights into effective administration, resource allocation, and community engagement. Be prepared to take on leadership roles in public or private recreation organizations.
- Option B: Therapeutic Recreation Service - Delve into the transformative power of recreation for individuals with special needs. Learn how to design and implement therapeutic recreation programs, making a positive impact on the lives of diverse populations. Develop skills to work in healthcare, rehabilitation, or community service settings.
- Option C: Physical Education Teachers – This option is only open to individuals who possess the initial certification in physical education and are pursuing the professional certification (for which this degree would qualify them, according to the New York State Education Department (NYSED). Shape the future by becoming an expert in physical education instruction. Acquire the knowledge and pedagogical skills needed to engage students in physical activity, promoting lifelong health and wellness. Prepare for a rewarding career as a physical education teacher.
Benefit from the guidance of experienced and dedicated faculty members who bring real-world insights into the virtual classroom. Our faculty is committed to your success and will support you throughout your academic journey.
Our curriculum is designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Engage in case studies, collaborative projects, and hands-on experiences that prepare you for the challenges and opportunities in the field of leisure and recreation.
Connect with fellow students, alumni, and industry professionals through our virtual networking events. Build a strong professional network that will enhance your career prospects and open doors to exciting opportunities.
Embark on a transformative educational experience with our M.S.Ed. in Recreation Education program. Choose your specialization, embrace the flexibility of distance education, and join a community of passionate educators dedicated to making a difference in the world of leisure and recreation.
New York State prides itself in the high quality of its licensed and certified professionals. For the protection of its citizens, each license and certificate has requirements that individuals must meet in order to be licensed or certified in New York State. CUNY’s academic programs leading to licensure or certification are carefully designed to meet and exceed these State requirements. This is a role CUNY plays in protecting the public. Other states frequently have their own requirements, so if your goal is to practice in another state, this disclosure will help you check to see what that state requires.
Per U.S. Federal Regulations, §668.14 and §668.43, and in compliance with the SARA Policy Manual, CUNY Lehman College provides the following disclosure related to the educational requirements for professional licensure and certification.This Disclosure is strictly limited to the CUNY Lehman College determination of whether this academic program, that if successfully completed, would be sufficient to meet the educational licensure or certification requirements in a State for Teaching. CUNY Lehman College cannot provide verification of an individual’s ability to meet licensure or certification requirements unrelated to its educational programming. Such individual determinations are made by state licensing boards and are fact-specific determinations.
This disclosure does not provide any guarantee that any particular state licensure or certification entity will approve or deny your application. Furthermore, this disclosure does not account for changes in state law or regulation that may affect your application for licensure and occur after this disclosure has been made. Enrolled students and prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact their state’s licensure entity using the links provided to review all licensure and certification requirements imposed by their state(s) of choice.
CUNY Lehman College has determined this academic program curricula, if successfully completed, is sufficient to meet the licensure and certification requirements for an initial teaching certification license in the following states:
New York State: New York State Education Department Teacher Certification
CUNY Lehman College has made no determination that the curricula is insufficient to meet the licensure and certification requirements for initial teaching certification in any of the 50 states and territories. After making all reasonable efforts, CUNY Lehman College cannot determine whether its educational programs curricula for this academic program, if successfully completed, is sufficient to meet the licensure and certification requirements for certification in the following states:
List of states(pdf)