Health and Physical Education Focus and Courses

While this program prepares students to serve in a variety of sectors, the course content will specifically focus on two areas in the discipline: Health and Physical Education.

The program consists of 10 foundational courses plus the final comprehensive exam. These courses will explore numerous aspects critical for the advancement of knowledge in health and physical education. 

Courses include the following:

PHED 6630:  Assessment and Program Evaluation in Health and Physical Education This course provides an opportunity for in-depth analysis of assessment and program evaluation in health and physical education. Students will gain a deeper understanding of lesson and unit assessment, the development of course-based rubrics for measuring learning outcomes, grading in health and physical education, and overall program evaluation, including curriculum and related content.

PHED 6665: Methods of Teaching K-12 Health and Physical Education This course provides a comprehensive overview of advanced pedagogical skills and knowledge related to teaching for student learning in health and physical education. The course develops an in-depth understanding of standards-based curriculum content and research-based effective teaching skills for K-12 programs. Content also includes the school health index, coordinated school health programs, and teaching resources for  health. This course requires advanced analysis of teaching experiences, focusing efforts on effective planning, teaching, and video-based reflection of K-12 student learning outcomes.

PHED 6675: Current Issues and Trends in Health, Physical Education, and Sport Students will examine strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats related to health, physical education, and sport programming. In addition, the course provides opportunities to explore current and new technologies for student learning, advocate for effective curricula and related needs, and seek methods for programmatic growth and improvement

PHED 7610: Curriculum Development in Health and Physical Education This course provides an in-depth examination and interpretation of curriculum, instructional models and assessment, and current program design and instructional trends in health and physical education. Students will acquire the tools necessary for developing a comprehensive health and/or physical education curriculum with an emphasis on reducing health disparities and promoting a physically active lifestyle.

PHED 7614: Organization and Administration of Health, Physical Education, and Sport This course provides an extensive review of the administrative theories and functions for quality health, physical education and physical activity programs. Students will explore the management process, including a variety of leadership and organizational roles in K12 settings, in addition to advocating for and meeting the needs of all students.

PHED 7620: Scientific Foundations of Exercise This course is focused on the primary factors affecting human performance and the physiological modifications that occur during exercise. Students will explore how the body produces energy during exercise, including the modifications within the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems throughout exercise sessions. The design of advanced training fitness programs based on scientific research will be reviewed

PHED 7626: Sociological and Psychological Aspects of Health and Physical Education This course is designed to help students develop a working knowledge of the influences for participation in physical activity. Students will analyze the social and psychological factors contributing to the perspectives, beliefs, and practices in health and physical education. Examples include economics, education, environmental factors, social and community contexts, and access to health care, activity spaces, and educational programs

PHED 7630: Legal Issues in Health, Physical Education and Sport Students in this course will examine the legal system in the United States, including statutes, standards, and case studies pertaining to the fields of health, physical education, and sport. Students will explore and review laws, national/state policies, academic language, and legal foundations.

PHED 7660: Developing the Whole Child for 21st Century Learning This course provides an in-depth review of the principles and evidence-based practices associated with improving students’ cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development. The course is focused on strategies for developing, implementing, and evaluating school programs for a positive impact on individual and community health.

PHED 7665: Analysis of Research on Teaching in Health and Physical Education Students in this course will learn to review and analyze professional literature in health, physical education, and physical activity. Critical reasoning skills and statistical analysis of research will be a significant focus. Students will engage in scholarly discussion and writing to reflect advanced reasoning and inquiry.