• Many practical experiences working with youngsters in schools and related settings.
  
• Emphasis on the development of motor skills and fitness components in youngsters.
  
• Development of teaching skills in practical settings.
  
• An innovative curriculum in which students complete the program in a community of learners (cohort group).
  
• Encouragement of self directed learning and critical thinking skills.
  
• Emphasis on teaching learners of all ability levels — not just elite athletes.
  
• Development of skills in a wide variety of movement, fitness, and leisure activities.
  
• A supportive community of fellow students, faculty and alumni.
  
• Greater access to faculty and comprehensive advising.
  
• A variety of learning environments, in addition to the classroom, which can include retreats, field experiences and professional conferences.
  
• A high rate of placement in the schools for students who graduate.

Program Overview:
This major provides concentrated study of pedagogy, exercise and sport science, and psychosocial and historical, and health education. Completion of the requirements leads to teacher certification in P-12 physical education and health. This program is special in that it consists of four sequential five-credit blocks with practicum experiences at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. It allows students concentrated time developing teaching techniques while working with youngsters in public schools.

The program consists of two to two and one-half years of coursework and one semester of student teaching. Students begin taking classes in the major fall quarter of their junior year (year 1 of the program). At the same time, students apply for formal admission into both the Woodring College of Education and the Physical Education and Health Teacher Education Program. Students are notified at the end of fall quarter if they are admitted into the program. Once admitted, students continue with the sequence of classes in the block program for the next five quarters.

Are you interested?
If you are someone who is interested in majoring in P-12 Physical Education and Health Teacher Education to become a physical educator, you should ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I love working with all children and youth?
  
• Do I want to work in an active and dynamic environment?
  
• Do I want to promote lifetime wellness and fitness?
  
• Am I a self-directed learner?
  
• Do I take initiative and have leadership skills?
  
• Am I enthusiastic and willing to learn?