It has long been evident that sport and exercise phenomena have significant social, political, economic and wellness implications in contemporary life. Kinesiology is the discipline related to the scholarly study of sport, exercise and related activities from anatomical, biomechanical, developmental, physiological, psychological, sociological, philosophical and historical perspectives. Such understanding is a necessary prerequisite to the preparation for sport and exercise related careers.
Physical education teacher education is a program housed in kinesiology and although credentialed teachers in the state of California are not required in public elementary schools, they are required in all public secondary schools. However, credentialed teachers in physical education are sought after in not only public schools (elementary and secondary), but also in some charter and private schools. This program strives to prepare students to be successful candidates as they seek out credential programs in order to teach physical education in the state of California.
In order to be eligible for the Physical Education Teacher Education California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) waiver, you must successfully complete 18 units in the Physical Education Teacher Education area AND all the degree requirements for the Kinesiology degree. These elective classes prepare students for teaching physical education in grades K-12 in public and private schools. The curriculum is designed to meet Standard Requirements set forth by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. All these classes must be passed with a C or better grade.
Note: Due to policy changes from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and the Federal No Child Left Behind mandate, the Physical Education Teacher Education curriculum is periodically reviewed and changed to meet current state and federal standards. Regularly consult a Kinesiology Advisor for details and the most current course requirements.