Physical Education (K-12)
Program

The UNF Physical Education Teacher Education Program is focused on preparing professionals to teach physical education in both public and private school settings while also directing youth in intramural and athletic programs. Physical educators are valued for their contributions in promoting healthy lifestyles; yet, they are also enlisted to provide leadership assistance in a variety of roles in school settings. To develop a perspective for this challenge, students must first complete broad-based lower division requirements in teacher education, physical education, and in general education studies including the humanities, sciences, and mathematics.

Upon completion of the lower division courses, students apply for admission to the College of Education and Human Services. After acceptance, all teacher education majors embark on studies encompassing learning theory, class management, communication skills, technology, and multicultural awareness. In addition, physical education students acquire specialized knowledge in methods courses which place an emphasis on quality planning, instruction, management, and evaluation. This pedagogical study is accompanied by a sound knowledge base in the movement sciences to empower teaching proficiency in school physical education programs. This valuable background nurtures the development of professionals who enable children and adolescents to have successful involvement in physically active lifestyles. Physical Education Program methods courses require in-class teaching experiences and school site observation/teaching experiences. Extended school site experiences are cultivated through pre-internships and the culminating experience of student teaching in an elementary, middle, or high school. The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physical Education will prepare a person to teach physical education in grades K-12 while also enabling progress toward the course work required for a Florida Coaching Endorsement Certificate. Prior to graduation, all physical education majors must pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examination (FTCE) which involves two components -- professional education and K-12 physical education. Upon program completion, COEHS graduates apply for an initial three year temporary certificate in teacher education. Later as a beginning teacher, application is made for a five year renewable certificate.

BAE in Physical Education (K-12)

The K-12 Physical Education Teacher Education Program maintains its important role in advancing public health through the preparation and recertification of teachers for elementary, middle school, and high school physical education. The preeminent curricular approaches addressed during professional preparation involve the skill theme approach (elementary), skill development model (middle school), sport education plus personal fitness curriculum models (high school), and also a pervasive fitness education model that is applied throughout grades K-12. This curriculum framework serves to introduce healthy physical activity that is developmentally appropriate and pedagogically efficient for children. An emphasis is placed on national and state standards to increase professional planning, qualitative learning, and accountable forms of assessment. The program of study also assists the knowledge base of prospective teachers who have an additional interest in directing youth in recreation, sport, and fitness programs in a variety of settings.

In addition to spacious sport fields and fitness and aquatic centers, a modern arena houses the UNF Physical Education, Athletic, and Recreation Programs. The Physical Education faculty brings to students many years of quality experience in school, university, community, and agency-based settings. They are active as authors, designers of professional materials, conference presenters, and state leaders.

Admission to the Program

Those entering the College of Education and Human Services must meet University admissions requirements as well as specific COEHS admissions criteria.