Core courses focus on principles of effective teaching, school-based physical activity and fitness education, adapted physical education, curriculum, teaching team and individual sports, and technology in sport and physical education. PEK students also take general education courses (GEF) in communication, basic math and science, English, social sciences and humanities.
Foundation Coursework
The PEK foundation courses provide an introductory understanding of human structure and movement, motor skills development across a life span and characteristics of individuals with disabilities. These concepts and principles serve as the building blocks for designing and delivering developmentally appropriate movement-based learning experiences for individuals of any age and ability.
Professional Coursework
Prepare for a career in physical education with a new perspective on what quality physical education entails. Students enjoy hands-on opportunities working with Pre-K through adult-aged learners in movement, physical activity, sport and physical education settings. Through these experiences, students learn what it takes to be an effective teacher and instruct using research-based curricular and instructional models to motivate learners to be physically active and fit for a lifetime.
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
Students introduced 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 will develop essential skills for standards-based measurement and evaluation in K-12 physical education. The course provides hands-on experience and equips students with the dispositions, knowledge, and competencies needed to effectively assess and evaluate school-aged children, ensuring adherence to educational standards.
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PET 477:
Adapted Physical Education Practicum
A supervised practice teaching experience providing adapted physical education to children with special needs.
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PET 488:
Student Teaching: Secondary Physical Education
Gain practical experience teaching physical education in secondary school settings.
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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Honors
Expand your curiosity — and enhance your curriculum — through the WVU Honors College. Two programs are offered: Honors Foundations for first-
and second-year students and Honors EXCEL for third- and fourth-year students.
Explore Honors