Build a strong foundation in effective teaching, school-based physical activity, and fitness education. You’ll study adapted physical education, curriculum design, and instruction for both team and individual sports. Courses also explore how to integrate technology into physical education and sport settings. As part of your degree, you’ll also complete general education courses (GEF) in communication, math, science, English, social sciences, and the humanities.
Foundation Coursework
Understand how the body moves and develops across the lifespan. Foundation courses cover human structure and movement, motor skill development, and the characteristics of individuals with disabilities. These core concepts help you design movement-based learning experiences that meet the needs of learners of all ages and abilities.
Professional Coursework
Prepare for a career in physical education with an understanding of quality instruction. PEK students gain hands-on experience working with Pre-K through adult learners in movement, physical activity, sport, and physical education settings. These experiences help you develop the skills to become an effective teacher, using research-based curricular and instructional models that motivate learners to be active and healthy for life.
Tailor this major to your interests by taking one of these courses as you pursue your degree:
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PET 233:
Pedagogy Theory and Application
Students gain hands-on experience in physical education settings by applying pedagogical theory. The course focuses on assessing, planning, designing, managing, and delivering effective instruction. Students will develop practical skills and effective teaching practices tailored to the needs of diverse learners in physical education.
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PET 441:
Technology in Physical Education
Introduction to technology literacy with a focus on the effective use of technology in physical education settings. Application of technologies related to professional development, advocacy, planning and instruction, and assessment of student learning.
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PET 445:
Standards-Based Assessment in Physical Education
Students completing this course will acquire the dispositions, knowledge, and performance competencies related to standards-based measurement and evaluation of school-aged children in K-12 physical education.
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PET 477:
Adapted Physical Education Practicum
A supervised practice teaching experience in adapted physical education.
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PET 488:
Residency 2 in Physical Education
A final, school-based practice teaching experience in the K-12 setting.
Tailor this major to your interests by focusing your coursework in one of these areas:
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Physical Education Teaching
Required courses:
- PET 488: Residency 2 in Physical Education
- PET 489: Residency 2 Seminar
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Sport Pedagogy
Required courses:
- ACE 256: Principles and Problems in Coaching
- ACE 310: Coaching Pedagogy
- CAHS 300: Career Exploration in Applied Human Sciences
- CAHS 489: Capstone Experience in AHS
Take advantage of special options related to this major:
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Accelerated Program
Physical Education and Kinesiology offers the option to earn a bachelor's and master's degree in an accelerated time frame.
Accelerated Program Details
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