Physical Education

The Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program provides opportunities for students to become critical thinkers, creative planners, and effective practitioners.

To be successful in the field, a physical education student must like to work with people, be adequately skilled in physical activities, have a commitment to fitness, and be interested in the physical, biological and social sciences.

The PETE program emphasizes teaching and provides students with skills and techniques necessary to begin a successful career in K-12 physical education. The program is aligned with the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America) PETE Standards. The courses are strategically structured to be sequential in nature.

Students initially take courses through the Department of Health, Nutrition, and Exercise Sciences (HNES) and complete their degree requirements through the School of Education. Application to the School of Education will occur during the student's sophomore year. Completion of the degree requirements for a physical education major in the School of Education certifies a graduate to teach physical education from kindergarten through grade 12 (K-12).

Students majoring in Physical Education will be studying the art and science of human movement, which includes classes in elementary, middle, and high school activities; motor learning, physiology and psychology of human movement; the art of teaching and motivating students; and performance-based assessment.

Students must earn a grade of 'B' or better in all core physical education courses and must maintain a minimum 2.75 cumulative grade-point average to stay in full standing in the program.

Graduates leave prepared to teach in a professional manner, while demonstrating exemplary ethical behavior and displaying current "best practices". Graduates are expected to be positive role models for K-12 students in the area of physical education, physical activity, and sports.

Double Major

It is recommended that physical education majors obtain a degree enhancement through licensing, certification or a double major.  The physical education curriculum has been structured to allow PETE students to obtain a health education major during the same four year time frame. The acquisition of additional credentials helps to prepare future professionals, giving them a broader area of expertise and making them more marketable

Plans of Study

Please note this is a sample plan of study and not an official curriculum.  Actual student schedules for each semester will vary depending on start year, education goals, applicable transfer credit, and course availability. Students are encouraged to work with their academic advisor on a regular basis to review degree progress and customize an individual plan of study.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHING MAJOR

Please note this is a sample plan of study and not an official curriculum.  Actual student schedules for each semester will vary depending on start year, education goals, applicable transfer credit, and course availability. Students are encouraged to work with their academic advisor on a regular basis to review degree progress and customize an individual plan of study.

Physical Education/Health Education Double Major