Career opportunities exist in teaching physical education, athletic coaching, health education and health promotion and wellness. Job markets are very stable, and graduates have excellent opportunities for employment.

The Bachelor of Science in Education degree in Physical Education requires 131 hours for K-12 certification. Certification is also available in Health (27 to 29 hours). A variety of fitness and leisure skill courses are available. A Coaching minor (22 hours) also is available.

High school students interested in teaching and/or coaching careers in physical education should be active in athletics, or related areas, take physical education and health classes and take a biology and chemistry course. Students must maintain 2.5 GPA and pass C-BASE and Praxis exams to be certified.

Graduate Program

The Master of Science in Education, Secondary Education degree is available with an emphasis in Physical Education for those desiring advanced study after completing requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree. 

The Master of Science degree in Health Promotion and Wellness Management is available in the Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation for students interested in careers in health, human services and fitness-related business venues.

The Sports Management Certificate started in Fall 2000. This program is designed to give students practical knowledge and application in the profession of sports management. This program is also available online. Internships may involve state, regional and national assignments.

The Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation has 21 full-time faculty members, 17 with doctorates. Experience and expertise is varied and comprehensive.

The department is located in historic McDonald Hall and Arena. This facility includes five strength/fitness rooms, three classrooms, a gymnastics room, a multi-purpose room, a combative sports room, a gymnasium, an exercise science lab, locker rooms and offices. 

Other facilities include several practice fields, Plaster Sports Complex and Hammons Student Center (16 handball/racquetball courts, two gyms and an indoor pool), 10 outdoor-lighted tennis courts and bowling lanes located in Plaster Student Union.

The Physical Education curriculum has a strong reputation throughout the state of Missouri and is in full compliance with both state and national certification and accreditation guidelines. Scientific based courses include integrated computer applications, interactive technology and experimental laboratory exercises.

Employment opportunities for Physical Education majors are strong. Graduates must be willing to locate in areas outside of Springfield for optimum career placement. Master’s level graduate programs throughout the country readily accept Missouri State graduates for further study.