About this Program
Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) is about empowering people with disabilities through physical activities. Students in this minor program will learn how to adapt and modify activities and skills for individuals with disabilities to promote health and well-being throughout their lifespan. DAPE coursework focuses on both content knowledge and practical experiences so that students can apply what they have learned in school and community settings.
- UMD is currently the only campus in University of Minnesota system that offers the DAPE licensure program.
- The DAPE minor prepares Physical Education teacher candidates to qualify for an add-on (endorsement) licensure conferred by the MN Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, which will broaden their scope of practice within the K-12 schools of Minnesota.
- UMD's DAPE program is affiliated with numerous local adaptive sports and rehabilitation programs and public school DAPE teachers, which enables UMD students to have practical experiences working directly with K-12 students and adults with disabilities in diverse settings.
- Small class sizes allow for more individual attention.
Acquired Skills
- Eligibility for licensure in DAPE
- Foundational knowledge in motor development, lesson plan development and implementation, and administration of movement assessment instruments
Career Possibilities
The minor prepares students for DAPE teaching at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Additional career options include adaptive sports and recreation program director or adaptive/inclusive fitness trainer.
Students may also choose to pursue graduate study in areas such as physical/occupational therapy, movement therapy, kinesiology for individuals with disabilities, and disability sport science.
Student Clubs
Requirements
Only students in the Physical Education Teacher Education program can be admitted to the DAPE minor program and will be eligible for the DAPE licensure conferred by the MN Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board.
Faculty Highlights
- Actively conduct, present, and publish high-impact research
- Have secured numerous research grants that offer opportunities for students to participate in research
- Licensed in K-12 physical education
- Active in multidisciplinary and collaborative research and teaching