Degree and Course Requirements

Career Options

Teacher candidates are prepared to teach school-based health and physical education. However, graduates also attend graduate school or succeed in related career paths including being a:

• Coach
• Activity Coordinator (i.e. YMCA)
• Parks and Recreation Department Employee
• Personal Trainer or Fitness Specialist

Job Availability

The local and national job market for teachers has been improving the past couple years. Most graduates in 2014 and 2015 were able to find employment teaching. There is also less competition for jobs because teacher preparation programs such as West Chester University are graduating fewer students. For graduates looking to move, there are many teacher positions available in neighboring states, particularly the south. The program, its faculty and university take job placement seriously and undertake many efforts to help graduates find employment. To contact a local teacher who recently graduated from WCU, please contact Dr. Fran Cleland.

Internships

The program provides a range of experiences to make graduates attractive to local school districts. However, teacher candidates should also independently undertake activities that make themselves marketable. Some possible options include:

• Earning lifeguarding or water safety instructor (WSI) certification
• Becoming employed at a fitness center or as a personal trainer
• Coaching youth sports or volunteering as an assistant
• Substitute teaching in public or private schools
• Acquiring Special Olympics coaching certifications in soccer, swimming and basketball
• Facilitating at local ropes courses
• Becoming certified for group exercise or personal training (ACE, ACSM, AFAA)
• Writing articles for state, regional or national publications
• Presenting at state, regional or national conferences (PSAHPERD, EDA, SHAPE)
• Developing a professional website
• Earning a minor in Adapted Physical Education, Coaching, Nutrition or another related discipline