Baccalaureate degree students may choose from several different emphasis areas, while masters degree candidates can pursue degrees in physical education/athletic administration and health education.
The department offers preparation in physical education and health education to undergraduate students seeking teaching or non-teaching degrees and works closely with the College of Education to outline courses important to a successful teaching career.
Students wishing to practice health education in a community of worksite settings are exempt from secondary requirements, but fulfill all department and university requirements for a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree. Activity performance, dance, athletic coaching, and fitness leadership are the different emphasis areas available to students majoring in physical education. A minor in dance is also available.
Students majoring in health education can prepare for a career in either school or community health. Students select at least ten hours of elective course work from approved courses to supplement their core program.
To meet the needs of individual students and to satisfy the elective requirement of the department, an exciting variety of activity courses are offered. Softball, skiing, judo, and kayaking are just a few examples of the many different activity course to choose from. Students can apply up to eight hours of activity classes to their degree.
Within the department are the Fitness/Wellness Center, which offers a wide range of exercise and fitness opportunities, and the Office of Campus Recreation and Intramurals.
The department is housed in Reed Gymnasium. This complex is open for student use and recreation purposes more than 100 hours per week. Within this time span are well-organized programs of fitness activities and intramurals designed to meet the needs of a diverse student body.
Reed Gym facilities include:
Students from all disciplines have an opportunity to participate in a variety of activities through the intramural program. Mens, womens and co-ed programs are available in more than 25 sports including tennis, softball, racquetball, flag football, bowling, horseshoes, frisbee golf, soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross country skiing, pickleball, badminton, and much more.