Bachelor of Science in Health, Physical Education/Fitness
The Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation offers professional courses
leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in Health, Physical Education/Fitness. This
degree offers two track options:
Physical Education Teacher Certification with endorsements in health education and
driver and safety education.
Health, Leisure and Fitness Studies (HLFS) with concentrations in aquatics, dance,
exercise science and coaching and/or health promotion.
The Physical Education Teacher Education curriculum is designed to prepare students
for certification and employment in the K-12 teaching and coaching profession. The
Health, Leisure and Fitness Studies major is designed to prepare students for entry
level professional employment in community-based recreation, coaching and fitness
enterprises, health promotion in business and industrial settings and related fields
of hospitality, tourism, sport management, and graduate study in related fields.
Empowering communities through knowledge: Understanding the importance of preventive
healthcare.
What is health education?
Health education is a multidisciplinary field focused on promoting and enhancing individual
and community health through the dissemination of knowledge, development of skills,
and adoption of healthy behaviors. It encompasses a wide range of activities aimed
at empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health
and well-being.
Health education addresses various aspects of health, including physical, mental,
emotional, social, and environmental dimensions. It covers topics such as nutrition,
physical activity, disease prevention, sexual health, mental health awareness, substance
abuse prevention, injury prevention, hygiene practices, and stress management.
The primary goal of health education is to promote health literacy and empower individuals
to take control of their health by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and
resources they need to make healthy choices. Health educators utilize various strategies
and methods to deliver health education messages effectively, including classroom
instruction, workshops, community outreach programs, online resources, social media
campaigns, and one-on-one counseling.
Healthy habits start early: Teaching children about nutrition and physical activity
for a lifetime of wellness.
Health Education Careers
• Physical Education Teacher • Water Safety Instructor • Swim Coach • Aquatics Facility Operator • Fitness Coach • Dance Coach • Health Teacher • Personal Trainer
Building a culture of wellness: Promoting healthy lifestyles in schools, workplaces,
and communities.
Health Education Salary Expectations
In 2020, the health education teacher made:
an average of $44.08 an hour
a median salary of $91,010
the top 25% made an average of $106,060 annually
the bottom 25% percent made an average of $75,360 annually
The states with the highest employment rates for health education teachers are:
California
New York
Texas and,
Florida
Breaking barriers to healthcare: Reaching underserved populations with accessible
education and resources.
Health Education Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Qs)
Q: What is a Health Education degree, and what does it entail? A: A Health Education degree program focuses on preparing individuals to promote health
and wellness in various settings, such as schools, communities, healthcare facilities,
and workplaces. The curriculum typically covers topics such as public health principles,
health behavior theories, epidemiology, nutrition, exercise science, communication
skills, and program planning and evaluation. Students learn how to develop and implement
strategies to educate individuals and communities about health-related issues, prevent
diseases, and promote healthy lifestyles.
Q: What career opportunities are available with a Health Education degree? A: Graduates with a Health Education degree can pursue diverse career paths in both public
and private sectors. They may work as health educators, health promotion specialists,
community health workers, wellness coaches, public health advocates, or program coordinators
in settings such as schools, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, government agencies,
corporate wellness programs, and public health departments. Their roles may involve
designing and implementing health education programs, conducting outreach and advocacy
efforts, assessing community health needs, and evaluating the effectiveness of health
interventions.
Q: Is licensure or certification required for health educators? A: Licensure or certification requirements for health educators vary depending on the
specific job role, employer, and state regulations. While some positions may not require
formal licensure or certification, obtaining credentials can enhance job prospects
and demonstrate competency and commitment to the field.
Other Concentrations, Endorsements & Resources
We offer certification programs with concentrations or endorsements in health, dance,
athletic coaching, aquatics, and driver education.
Courses in the Aquatics Management concentration provides eligibility for American
Red Cross Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor certificates as well as Water Safety
Training for Swim Coaches and Aquatics Facility Operators credential from National
Recreation and Parks Association
Courses in the Exercise Science & Coaching concentration allow the graduate to apply
for the Coaching certification from the Florida Department of Education.
