Core Requirements (almost always needed):
* Education Courses: These will prepare you for the teaching profession itself. Expect classes on:
* Educational Psychology
* Child Development (especially if you plan to teach younger grades)
* Curriculum Development and Instruction
* Classroom Management
* Assessment and Evaluation in Education
* Special Education (at least an introductory course)
* Student Teaching (a practicum or student teaching experience is essential)
* Health Courses: These provide the content knowledge for health education. Expect classes on:
* Anatomy and Physiology
* Nutrition
* Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
* First Aid and CPR (certification often required)
* Substance Abuse Prevention and Education
* Human Sexuality Education (depending on the school and grade level)
* Community Health
* Physical Education Courses: These provide the content knowledge for physical education instruction. Expect classes on:
* Kinesiology (the study of human movement)
* Exercise Physiology
* Motor Learning and Control
* Sport and Exercise Psychology
* Adapted Physical Activity (for students with disabilities)
* Specific Sports and Activities (e.g., basketball, volleyball, swimming, track and field, depending on the program)
* Fitness Assessment and Programming
* Coaching techniques
Possible Electives (often recommended or required depending on the program):
* Coaching: Many programs offer coaching certifications or related coursework.
* Exercise Science: More in-depth study of the physiological aspects of exercise.
* Sports Management: Useful for understanding the administrative side of physical education.
* Health Informatics: Understanding health data and technology.
Important Considerations:
* State Certification Requirements: Requirements for teacher certification vary significantly by state. You must research the specific requirements of the state where you intend to teach. This will dictate the specific courses and exams you need to complete.
* Degree Type: Most states require at least a Bachelor's degree, often a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education or a similar field. Some states might allow for a broader education degree with a concentration in health and physical education.
* Licensure Exams: You'll likely need to pass state-specific licensure exams (e.g., Praxis) to obtain your teaching license.
Before you begin your college studies, it's crucial to:
1. Research the state certification requirements in your target state.
2. Contact the education departments of colleges and universities offering teacher education programs. They can provide detailed information on their specific requirements and curriculum.
This information provides a general overview. Always consult with the relevant educational institutions and licensing boards for the most up-to-date and accurate information.