B.S. in Physical Education (K-12)

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physical Education (K-12) at Mississippi College is designed to prepare highly qualified and effective health and physical educators for all grade levels, from kindergarten through twelfth grade. This program, housed within the Department of Kinesiology, emphasizes innovative and collaborative teaching practices, aiming to cultivate professionals who will promote healthy and active lifestyles for future generations. Graduates of this program fulfill the requirements for teacher licensure in physical education in grades K-12, positioning them to make a significant impact on student well-being and development within educational settings.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.S. in Physical Education (K-12) at Mississippi College is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of both physical education principles and effective teaching methodologies. Beyond the university's core requirements, students complete specialized coursework covering areas such as Human Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Health and Physical Education, and advanced courses like Teaching Fitness, Outdoor & Adventure Education. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with extensive classroom experience and fieldwork. A critical component is the Professional Education Courses required for licensure, which include subjects like Educational Psychology and Instructional Technology. The program culminates in a year-long internship, which comprises senior practicum and student teaching in both elementary and secondary settings, providing immersive, hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced educators and university supervisors.

Research Focus: The B.S. in Physical Education (K-12) program at Mississippi College fosters an applied research focus, primarily centered on best practices in physical education pedagogy and fostering healthy lifestyles. While students are not typically engaged in laboratory-based research, the curriculum encourages them to understand and apply evidence-based strategies in their teaching. Courses like "Introduction to Health and Physical Education" provide an overview of the profession's evolution and what it means to be a highly qualified educator in the 21st century. The program emphasizes innovative practices, suggesting an engagement with current research on effective teaching methods, student engagement, and promoting physical literacy. Through their coursework and year-long internships, students are expected to critically reflect on their teaching practices and integrate new knowledge to improve student outcomes.

Industry Engagement: Mississippi College's B.S. in Physical Education (K-12) program demonstrates strong industry engagement through its close ties with local K-12 school systems and the broader educational community. The program's core is built around required clinical experiences and a year-long internship where students are placed in elementary and secondary schools. This direct engagement allows students to gain professional experience alongside experienced educators, learn about effective teaching strategies, develop professional dispositions, and work directly with K-12 students. The School of Education, which houses the Kinesiology department, is nationally accredited by bodies such as the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)/CAEP, underscoring its commitment to high standards and alignment with professional practice. Furthermore, student organizations like the Kinesiology Student Association (KSA) promote community involvement, career exploration, and peer connection, further linking students to their future professional field.

Global Perspective: Mississippi College is committed to fostering a global perspective across its academic programs, and the B.S. in Physical Education (K-12) contributes by preparing educators to work with diverse student populations and promote healthy lifestyles within an interconnected world. While the program's primary focus is K-12 licensure within the U.S., the emphasis on "21st century skills" and "innovative and collaborative practices" implies an awareness of broader educational trends. Although specific international study opportunities directly within the Physical Education curriculum were not explicitly detailed, Mississippi College's general Office of Global Education offers various study abroad programs. These opportunities allow students to gain cross-cultural experiences, which can broaden their understanding of different educational systems, cultural approaches to health and wellness, and the importance of adapting teaching strategies to diverse student needs in an increasingly globalized society.