
Overview
The Physical Education major concentration prepares any student with the necessary tools and knowledge to teach Physical Education to PreK - 12 students.
The Westfield State University program for licensure for teachers of Physical Education has received national recognition from the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) and accreditation from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).
Topics Covered
- Theory and Practice of Teaching Games, Gymnastics, Aquatics and Dance
- Adaptive Physical Education
- Curriculum Planning and Implementation
- Measurement and Evaluation
- Teaching Methodology
- Multicultural Education
Program Highlights
- Observations in surrounding community schools (elementary, middle and/or high school)
- Opportunities to teach lessons on campus to visiting students
- Full semester practicum (student teaching)
Schedule of Coursework
- 27 Credits in the Major’s Core
- 46-50 Credits in the Concentration
Outcomes
Prepare students to obtain state licensure (initial) and teach physical education at the elementary and/or secondary level.
-
120
credits
-
Prep for
Certification
Requirements
Learning Outcomes
- Students will understand and demonstrate cultural competence.
- Students will understand the need for and will demonstrate proficiency in written and oral communications and be able to utilize different forms of current technology.
- Students will use reflective practices to plan, implement and evaluate program, personal, community and professional goals.
- Students will demonstrate an ability to explain the relevance of scientific and theoretical knowledge appropriate to his/her chosen field of study to everyday problems.
- Students will utilize critical inquiry to advance knowledge and apply that knowledge to practice.
- Students will understand the importance of and will engage in professional behaviors including pursuit of appropriate credentials.
- Students will understand the role of Physical Activity in the Health and Wellness of individuals across the lifespan.
- Students will value and participate in Civic Engagement.

Still have questions?
Program Director
Dr. Heidi Bohler
hbohler@westfield.ma.edu