The program prepares students for teaching careers in health and physical education.
Successful completion of the program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Education and
an initial North Carolina K-12 teaching license. The curriculum combines the university’s
liberal studies requirement with the major requirements and a professional education
sequence. Major courses include Foundations of Health and Physical Education, Fitness
Concepts, and Healthy Living Concepts. The professional education sequence includes
special education, psychology, and curriculum and instruction courses, and an internship
experience. Among WCU’s most engaged and enthusiastic community members, health and
physical education students regularly enhance their educational experience by participating
in clubs and activities, attending conferences, and volunteering.
Where You'll Go
WCU’s rate of teacher placement is one of the best in North Carolina. With their degree
and initial teaching license in hand, health and physical education graduates pursue
careers as K-12 physical education teachers, intramural program directors, varsity
sports and athletics coaches, and athletics program administrators. Places of employment
can include public and private schools, colleges and universities, community recreation
programs, adult education programs, fitness clubs, and professional and semi-professional
sports associations. Many graduates choose to further their education by enrolling
in a graduate degree program such as the Master of Arts in Comprehensive Education.
91Å®Éñ’s Health and Physical Education Program is the perfect
fit for students who want to teach these disciplines in elementary, middle and secondary
school settings. Known for its outstanding professional preparation of North Carolina’s
physical educators, the program is taught by highly qualified faculty with years of
public school teaching and higher education experience. Under their invaluable mentorship,
students receive the personal attention they need at every step of their professional
development. Graduates go on to teach and administer health and physical education
programs in schools and colleges and in community, corporate and private settings.
Learn more by visiting the College of Education and Allied Professions and explore all available programs.
Degree Options
School
College of Education & Allied Professions, School of Teaching and Learning
Location
CCullowhee Campus
Length
Full-Time
Time to Complete:
4 Year Average
Credits:
126 total credit hours
App Deadline:
Admission to WCU plus completion of program-specific admission requirements, including
GPA benchmarks, completion of foundational courses, and successful participation in
interviews or assessments as required by the HPE program.
More 91Å®Éñ Our Bachelor of Science in Education in Health and Physical Education
The B.S.Ed. in Health and Physical Education at 91Å®Éñ prepares
students to become effective K–12 health and physical education teachers. The program
combines coursework in health, fitness, exercise science, wellness, and pedagogy with
practical teaching experiences and student teaching placements.
Students gain the knowledge and skills to teach health and PE, coach athletics, and
lead intramural and community wellness programs. Graduates leave ready for licensure
in North Carolina and equipped to foster the physical, mental, and social well-being
of students in diverse school and community settings.
Through the HPE program, students build a strong foundation in health, fitness, exercise,
dance, and wellness education — equipping them to teach and lead in a variety of settings.
Students progress through a holistic curriculum that combines academic studies, health
& PE theory, and real‑world teaching preparation. The program culminates in internships
that provide hands‑on classroom and coaching experience.
Graduates of the HPE program at WCU are equipped for a wide range of careers. With
a strong foundation in health, fitness, and education, they can lead athletics, wellness
programs, community recreation, or fitness initiatives.
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