Physical Education

 
Overview
The Physical Education, program at Central Methodist University is based on the mission of Central Methodist University, to integrate a high quality liberal arts education and professional preparation so as to promote life-long learning, social responsibility, and service in its students. The program is designed to give the beginning teachers the fundamental background, concepts, and skills required to be efficient and effective physical education teachers in the public schools as well as non-school settings such as health/ fitness clubs. The primary goals and objectives of the physical education program are designed to prepare students to become professional educators in the field of physical education, health, and wellness.
What skills and abilities do I need to excel in this degree?
 You need to have a strong science and social science background as well as an acceptable GPA and ACT scores. Knowledge and skills related to microcomputer applications. More importantly, a sincere commitment to developing a wide range of sport-skill competencies and attaining an optimal level of fitness is essential if students hope to become the kind of model that their students will someday emulate. It is also desirable that students pursuing physical education profession develop positive attitudes and behaviors regarding physical activities and sport.
What skills can I expect to develop through this degree?
  • Knowledge of the essential components of a quality physical education program
  • Knowledge of the relationship between physical activity and development of muscular strength and endurance and skeletal growth.
  • Knowledge of guidelines to follow for exercising children and adult safely
  • Knowledge of the principles of motor development and motor learning
  • Knowledge of the goals and objectives of physical education, exercise science, and sport as well as contribution of the field to education.
  • Knowledge of the purposes and the importance of assessment in physical education
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of physical and mental health ( such as personal health habits, nutrition, stress management)
  • Knowledge of the principles of movement and physical fitness
  • Knowledge of the responses to emergency situations
  • Knowledge of the lifestyle factors that contribute to weight gain and loss, including the roles of diet, exercise, and emotional factors
  • Knowledge of the wellness benefits of physical activity and exercise
  • Knowledge of the benefits of physical education and sport for students including students with disabilities
  • Knowledge of the history of physical education and sport
  • Knowledge of the structures of, functions of, and relationships among human body systems
  • Knowledge of the diseases and methods for prevention, treatment and control as well as care and prevention of injuries
What opportunities are there for internships or other hands-on learning experiences?
  • Working for CMU recreation department to officiate, coach, lifeguard at our swimming pool,
  • Student practicum within the department
  • Coaching /officiating at park and recreation in surrounding city such as Columbia
  • Working at fitness club/health club in Columbia
  • Student teaching / substitute teacher as a part time
What are some possible entry-level careers with a degree in this field?
Teaching opportunities- School setting- elementary school, junior high, high school
Nonschool setting- community recreation sports program, commercial sports program, health club
Coaching opportunities- School setting and nonschool setting
Fitness and health-related opportunities- cardiac rehabilitation, personal trainer, health clubs
Sport management opportunities- sport facility management, club management, health club management
What are some CMU graduates with this degree doing?
Athletic directors
Teachers in public schools
Coaches at public school and university
Professor at college and university level
Personal trainer at fitness and health clubs
Attending graduate school
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CMU Seal & T. Berry Smith Hall