Sport and Physical Education

Chairperson: Diane Tunnell

Bachelor of Education in Physical Education

Bachelor of Education in Sport Management

The Bachelor of Education in Physical Education curriculum primarily prepares students for Washington State Certification to teach health and physical education at the K-12 level in schools. This certification option has reciprocity with most states within the U.S. With a strong liberal arts core, courses from the Physical Education program, and coursework from the Department of Teacher Education, students master skills for entry into the teaching profession. The major also prepares students to pursue graduate studies in physical education (pedagogy or administration).

A minor in Physical Education is also available, as is a health and fitness endorsement for those students whose primary major lies in an area other than physical education. For a complete listing of courses required for teaching certification contact the Department Chair.

Students not interested in seeking teacher certification who wish to pursue careers in the fitness industry as personal trainers, fitness club programmers, fitness club managers or owners, or providers of fitness and health-related programming for individuals, groups, or corporations can complete the major in Physical Education, along with an additional 16-credit Fitness Specialist concentration, without completing the requirements for teacher certification. This concentration provides additional knowledge, skills, and hours from classes and internships to prepare for work in the fitness industry. Students will be qualified to sit for national certification exams in fitness specialties and to work as fitness professionals independently, in fitness clubs, and in community organizations that promote health and fitness.

The Bachelor of Education in Sport Management prepares students for entry level positions in sport-, fitness-, or health-related industry areas. This degree also prepares students for graduate studies in Athletic Administration, Sport Management, or related disciplines. It is strongly recommended that Sport Management majors pursue an advisor-approved minor such as business, communications, or other relevant specialty areas. During the past few years, these companies have hired our alumni, including Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), Golden State Warriors (NBA), Portland Timbers (MLS), The University of Washington Athletics (NCAA), Colorado Rapids (MLS) Everett AquaSox (Minor League Baseball), Spokane Indians (Minor League Baseball), Idaho Stampede (D-League), and Slalom Consulting,

Activity Course Offering:  The Sport and Physical Education Department also offers a large number of activity courses (EDPE 101-189) which are open to students throughout the University. Activity courses may be repeated for credit.