BS Health and Physical Education
The Bachelor of Science in Health & Physical Education degree program is a collaborative initiative from the Department of Education and the Department of Recreation & Leisure Studies. This Health & Physical Education degree attracts teacher candidates who possess an enduring love of sports, physical fitness, and wellness. Physical education teachers can serve as powerful role models and motivators for the next generation as they strive to make healthy choices and reach their full potential.
Key Program Features
Engage in foundational and application-based learning materials
Participate in field experiences under the supervision of an appropriately credentialed experienced teacher
Gain expertise related to exercise, health, science, and nutrition
Program Details
UMO offers a modern curriculum that is fully aligned with the North Carolina Professional Educators Licensure requirements. All coursework adheres to the national standards for Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) as established by SHAPE America, which is the national organization for physical educators.
This BS in Health & Physical Education enables teacher candidates to develop these core competencies:
- Create a safe, positive learning environment
- Meet the diverse needs of students with varying abilities
- Empower students to thrive physically, and stay active in and out of school
Graduates gain both the theoretical knowledge of health sciences and teaching, as well as the practical skills necessary to become a gym teacher in an elementary, middle or secondary school.
All teacher candidates are required to complete a student teaching internship, under the supervision of a certified, experienced physical education teacher. In this experience, teacher-candidates will apply their content and pedagogical knowledge in the professional field.
The Bachelor of Science in Physical Education degree program at UMO leads to initial teacher licensure. Teacher candidates are responsible for obtaining all necessary certifications required by the state in which they wish to teach.
UMO Recreation and Leisure Studies students have the possibility to earn two separate scholarships during their tenure with the University. The RLS department recognizes annually, The Most Outstanding Senior, and The Most Promising Underclassman. These students are awarded a $500 scholarship to be used towards tuition expenses.
The Braswell Teaching Scholarship, funded by Jessie Dail and Walter Vernon Braswell Scholarship Endowment, provides a scholarship renewable annually up to three years. Scholarship amounts vary.
- Coaching
- Sport Psychology
More Information
A BS in Health & Physical Education allows you to turn your passion for fitness and sports into a rewarding career inspiring students. Graduates may pursue job opportunities as instructors in elementary, middle or high school physical education programs. Other career possibilities that may be related to this degree include:
- Physical activity coordinator
- Athletic team coach
- Fitness trainer
- Athletic director
- Community recreation director
- Strength and conditioning coach