Physical Education, Health, and Recreation Department

Annie Alameda, EdD, Program Director

Program Description

The Physical Education, Health, and Recreation Department offers degree programs that promote a physically active and healthy lifestyle. Students can pursue teaching certifications in physical education and health through the state of Missouri through the Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education K-12 or the Bachelor of Arts in Health Education K-12 programs. (For more information on certification programs, see the School of Education.) Additionally, the department offers of Bachelor of Science in Physical Education for those who wish to pursue coaching or related work outside the K-12 setting in environments such as in community centers, non-profit organizations, or youth sport organizations. Students of this degree will complete coursework in the areas of anatomy, physiology, fitness, and nutrition.

The Recreation, Sport, and Tourism Management program promotes healthy lifestyles in society by developing students’ understanding and ability to plan, organize, and facilitate challenging and rewarding recreation and leisure experiences in preparation for future careers in leisure services. Students will learn about human behavior, public policy, social issues, and how to manage facilities and resources to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities. Students will gain the knowledge and skills needed for entry level positions in private, nonprofit, and public recreation organizations on the local, state/regional, and national/federal level as well as be prepared for further study in graduate school in a variety of disciplines. The degree program offers the following emphasis areas: general recreation, outdoor and adventure education, sport and fitness management, and therapeutic recreation.