The primary purpose of The Department of Health and Physical Education is to develop competent teachers and physical education professionals who can make a positive contribution to school systems and to society.  The department provides the curriculum, body of knowledge and instills in the entire student body an awareness and appreciation of life-time physical and sports activities.  The Department of Health and Physical Education is committed to excellence consistent with the overall liberal arts mission of the College.  The department teaches the scientific basis of physical fitness competencies inherent in the profession that are required to be  successful in public schools, municipal or private settings.  Majors seeking physical education teacher certification for grades K-12 can receive certification by successfully completing all requirements in the education department.

The Department is responsible for preparing individuals to teach in elementary and/or secondary schools.  Other employment opportunities include park and recreation programs, health/spa employees, exercise instructors at facilities designed to offer assisted living, and guidance for park facilities.

All junior and senior physical education majors must take, pass or show improvement on the required Health and Physical Education Majors Fitness Test.  The test will be given one time each semester at a time designated by the department chairperson.  It is the student's responsibility to properly prepare and condition him/herself for this test, as this is a graduation requirement.

Faculty

Donald Staffo, Professor, B.S., M.A., Ph.D.,
State University of New York at Brockport; Western Kentucky at Brockport; Western Kentucky University; Ohio State University
Harriet Hamilton, Instructor, B.S.; M.S., Ed.D., Fisk University; Florida State University; Temple University