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Major Requirements — Physical Education K-12 Teaching Certification
Bachelor of Arts - Teaching Certification K-12 Major
The preparation of a competent and caring professional in fitness and health promotion, and physical education is accomplished through a varied curriculum requiring a rigorous, interdisciplinary academic program. The learning environment, inclusive of classroom and field experiences, is structured to develop within the individual, demonstrable and measurable skills in effective communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, creative planning, and leadership skills. The knowledge base is derived from current research in the field regarding philosophical foundations, instructional/motivational theories, available technology, human behavior/performance, and professional experience. Student development is nurtured through close, personal contact with faculty in a creative learning environment, characterized by opportunities for applied learning and dynamic delivery systems based upon learner needs and characteristics.
Students who desire active leadership roles in teaching and fitness and health promotion must possess a strong commitment to serving the "whole person" through physically oriented activities that are appropriate for the age, ability, capability, and interests of their clients. Students who enjoy the value and benefits of physical activity, who possess a caring nature, are sensitive to quality-of-life issues, and desire to motivate and educate others to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, are encouraged to investigate the available options in the physical education program.
The Physical Education Teacher Certification K-12 program is closely aligned with the College of Education and promotes the philosophy of "Achieving Excellence in Teaching and Learning through Professional Education Communities." This option encompasses an endorsement in middle school Health Education and a state-required endorsement in coaching from the American Sport Education Program. Majors will engage in clinical experiences at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels.
Professional Core Courses for Teaching
34 semester hours
| PED1200 | Fitness for Life (2) |
| PED2000 | Inclusive Physical Education (3) |
| PED2100 | Teaching Individual and Dual Sports (2) |
| PED2110 | Teaching Rhythmic Activities (2) |
| PED2120 | Fitness Programs for children and Youth (2) |
| PED2150 | Teaching Team Sports (2) |
| PED2160 | Teaching Non-Traditional Games (2) |
| PED2300 | Coaching Principles and Techniques (2) |
| PED2600 | Motor Development (3) |
| PED3000 | Teaching Physical Education in the Elementary School (4) |
| PED3050 | Teaching Physical Education in the Secondary School (4) |
| PED3150 | Assessment in Physical Education (3) |
| PED4760 | Student Teaching Seminar for Physical Education K-12 (3) |
Education Core Courses
30 semester hours MTH1100
| College Algebra (3) or successful completion of Mathematics Competency Examination | |
| COM1500 | Human Communication/Public Speaking (3) |
| EDU2100 | How Schools Work (4) |
| EDU2260 | Theories of Learning (4) |
| EDU3440 | Middle Schools Mission and Methods (4) |
| EDU4750 | Student Teaching Internship |
Required Minor in Health Education
18 semester hours
| HED1100 | Planning School Health Programs (3) |
| IDS2000 | Wellness and Social Responsibility (4) |
| HED2050 | At-Risk Behaviors & Society (3) |
| HED2100 | Resources and Assessment in Health Education (2) |
| HED3050 | Curriculum Development in Health Eduction (3) |
| HED4050 | School/Community Partnerships in Health Promotion (3) |
| (NOTE: These courses may be used to fulfill General Education degree requirements. | |
| BIO1060 | Human Anatomy (4) |
| PSC2110 | United States Government (4) |
| PSY3350 | Child and Adolescent Psychology (4) (must take for Middle School endorsement) |
Academic information on departmental Web sites reflects the university's most current curriculum. The print version of the catalog, which is also posted online, may differ from this information.
