Health and Physical Education

Program description

The B.S. Ed. Degree in Health and Physical Education prepares students to teach at all grade levels preschool through high school. This contemporary program is designed to meet all requirements of both the Georgia Professional Standards Commission and the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education and is fully accredited. The program of study is guided in part by the principles of the Interstate New Teacher and Support Consortium and the National Standards for Beginning Physical Education Teachers. Students are actively engaged in a variety of learning experiences in classrooms, labs, and public schools and have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in a wide variety of physical activities while learning to teach others. The curriculum includes a general education core of 60 hours, required for all fields of study, and an additional 63 hours of professional studies.

Career opportunities

Recent graduates have found great success in obtaining teaching positions in health and physical education in area schools. Columbus State University graduates are employed as elementary, middle level, and high school physical education teachers and coaches, often with responsibilities for health instruction and the teaching of children with special needs. Graduates of the program are recognized as effective teachers who are committed to the teaching profession. They are also prepared to continue their professional growth through graduate study.

Admission requirements

Admission into the Teacher Education Program. Applications can be obtained in the Office of Undergraduate Services & Field Experiences in Room 107, Jordan Hall or call 706-568-2191 or 706-568-2194.

Certification requirements

To be eligible for recommendation by Columbus State University for a Georgia professional teaching certificate, students must complete a rigorous program of coursework. They also must meet certain other criteria required by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Please contact the Office of COE Services and Field Experience for an application. 706-568-2191 or 706-568-2194

Unique special features

Preparation to teach Health and Physical Education in the schools is dynamic. Students are enrolled in classes designed to develop sport skills and knowledge in a variety of physical activities. Extensive laboratory experiences include observations and teaching at all grade levels...preschool, elementary, middle level, and high school...a feature that sets the program apart from many others in the nation. Students are guided in the process of teacher development by a team consisting of local P-12 physical educators and university faculty. Post Baccalaureate and add-on certification options are available.

Program Requirements