Why Adapted Physical Activity and SRU?
At Slippery Rock University, we challenge the status quo. Our Adapted Physical Activity (APA) concentration - part of the Master of Science in Lifelong Wellness through Innovative Leadership—is the only program of its kind in the United States welcoming candidates from diverse backgrounds—physical education, exercise science, recreational therapy, special education, athletic training, and related fields. If you’re passionate about creating and leading programs that help people with disabilities stay active and healthy, this degree will empower you to reinvent the future.
How SRU Prepares APA Graduates
Our APA curriculum equips you to advocate for, design, and deliver opportunities that promote health and activity for persons with disabilities across the lifespan. You’ll gain expertise in:
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Health Promotion & Nutrition: Strategies to improve health outcomes and quality of life
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Vocational & Independent Living Services: Supporting competitive integrated employment and independent living
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Advocacy & Leadership: Championing accessibility and inclusion in schools, community agencies, and beyond
Hands-On Experience
Engage directly with individuals of all ages and abilities through:
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Kids in Action: After-school activities for children (ages 5–12) with autism and their siblings
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Transition Achievement Program (TAP): Job training, life skills, and fitness for high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities
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Interscholastic Unified Sports (IUS): Coaching PIAA-sanctioned Special Olympics teams in partnership with regional schools
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Veterans with Disabilities (VETS): Designing and leading activities for veterans at the VA hospital in Butler
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Rock Life: Mentoring college students with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Plus opportunities in vision-impaired sports, Pre-K inclusion, and more!
CAREER PATHWAYS
Graduates stand out in roles such as:
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Adapted Physical Education Specialists in K–12 districts
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Advanced Recreation Therapy Professionals
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Health Promotion Coordinators at community agencies or fitness centers
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Inclusive Sports & Recreation Program Directors
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Independent consultants developing new disability-focused activity initiatives
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
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30-credit master’s— classes offered fall, spring, and summer
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100% online with flexible pacing for working professionals
TO APPLY:
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Submit online application + $25 application fee
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Provide a 750-word essay describing how the APA degree will advance your career goals
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Furnish two letters of recommendation (one from an undergraduate professor)
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Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
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Transcripts must be sent directly by the issuing institution via electronic e-share to
graduate.admissions@sru.edu, or by mail. (Faxed copies are not accepted.)
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Current SRU students, alumni, or former students can order and send official final SRU transcripts
here.
Join a one-of-a-kind APA program at SRU and lead the way toward a more inclusive, active world!
Contact the Graduate Coordinator for more information
Dr. Dallas Jackson
Dallas.Jackson@sru.edu
724-738-4251
