Learn from Christian faculty about body mechanics and health education to keep youth engaged in sports and help them lead an active lifestyle. The physical education and health education degree equips you to teach fitness to children in grades K-12 within a public or private school setting. This degree also prepares you for further graduate study.
Physical Education and Health Education may be the right degree for you if you
- enjoy fitness and health
- are eager to serve
- passionate about teaching
- interested in working in a school setting
Why study physical education and health education at Northwestern?
At UNW you will grow in your faith by working with experienced faculty who have learned to integrate faith and leadership. You will gain an understanding of the human body, how to lead activities, and get equipped to teach children in grades K-12.
Additionally, the School of Education offers you the opportunity to go to Haiti for one week to learn how different education is overseas. This trip will help equip you to teach in diverse communities. You can also study abroad or take part in our international student teaching program.
Northwestern’s School of Education provides four levels of classroom practicum experience:
- The first level allows you to find your personal “fit” within the teaching profession.
- The second focuses on developing theory and skills related to diversity.
- The third engages you to apply methodologies within your chosen field by creating, teaching, and evaluating lessons in a school classroom.
- The final level is full-time student teaching in a chosen licensure field.
The School of Education provides teacher education programs approved by the MN Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board and as a result meet the state standards adopted for licensure programs as defined in state rule 8710.2000 through 8710.8080. All licensure programs are aligned with INTASC (Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium) standards and the Minnesota Standards of Effective Practice.
You can also add a licensure in health to your degree with additional credits. The following courses are required for licensure in Health Education.
- School Health Education Methods
- Sexuality Education
- Personal and Community Health
- Human Nutrition
- Health Behavior: Theory and Program Planning
- Health Education Curriculum and Instruction
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Careers in physical education and health education
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in physical education and heath education.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Teaching in your area of specialty
- Creating/directing educational programs
- Curriculum development
- Instructional design (technology training may be required)
- Textbook editing
- Student life/student affairs
- Adapted physical educator
- Athletic director or trainer
- Camp counselor
- Exercise or fitness specialist
- Industrial wellness programming
- Recreation programming/directing
- Sports store manager
- Umpire/referee
What will I learn?
You will develop valuable skills in creative problem-solving, think deeper, and analyze key concepts.
EPH 4375
Adapted Physical Education
Principles and techniques involved in teaching developmental/adapted physical education in school settings.
HPE 3377
Biomechanics
Mechanics of body movement, principles of leverage, application of muscular forces and the analysis of physical skills.
HPE 3007
Coaching Theory
Theoretical and practical foundations of coaching. Topics include coaching philosophies, leadership techniques, skill analysis, practice design, motivational approaches and administrative issues.
HPE 2005
First Aid and Personal Safety
Skills and knowledge necessary to give aid to victims of trauma or sudden illness. Red Cross first aid and CPR certifications available.
BIO 3157
Human Anatomy
A study of the structure of the cells, tissues and organs of the various organ systems of the human body. Included are the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, digestive, circulator, nervous, endocrine, excretory and reproductive systems. A $200 laboratory fee required.
Still have questions about this program or how to apply?
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Discover the School of Education
Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
