Physical and Health Education
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Why choose Physical & Health Education at UVic?
Learn how to teach movement, health and physical literacy in real school and community settings. This program blends classroom learning with hands-on activity so you graduate confident leading others, not just studying theory.
At UVic, you will
- Build practical teaching skills through activity-based learning
- Learn how children and youth develop movement, confidence and healthy habits
- Prepare for pathways into teaching, coaching, health promotion and sport leadership
Customize your degree
Choose an area of focus to tailor your degree to your interests and goals:
- Physical and Health Education
- Recreation and Wellness
- Health Promotion
Hands-on learning
School teaching experience in PE
Gain experience teaching physical education to children and youth at the middle and secondary school level. Learn how to plan lessons, manage classes and adapt activities for different learning needs.
Special populations
Work with children who have special educational needs and learn how inclusive physical activity can support confidence, skill development and wellbeing.
Practical sport and physical activity courses
Learn directly from qualified coaches while developing skills across a wide range of sports and activities. Courses may include yoga, backpacking, rock climbing, gymnastics, swimming, basketball, rugby, tennis, badminton, volleyball and field hockey.
Motor learning
Design and carry out a research project that tracks how people learn new motor skills. Learn how to distinguish between performance and learning — a key skill for effective teaching and coaching.
Biomechanics
Analyze movement using high-speed video, wearable sensors and modern sport technology. Gain experience collecting, processing and interpreting data used in sport and physical education settings.
Student life and community
- Physical Education, Recreation and Kinesiology Student Society (PERKS): Connect with classmates through social events, networking and career-focused activities.
- EPHE Peer Mentorship Program: Get guidance and support from upper-year students who have been where you are and can help you navigate courses and opportunities.
- Sports clubs and teams: Join intramural teams with your classmates and stay active while building community.
- Active Start @ UVic: Volunteer with children who have developmental disabilities and help design fun, inclusive physical activities through programs connected to Special Olympics.
More highlights
- Learn and train in CARSA, UVic’s world-class athletics and recreation facility.
- Teach and volunteer with children through local schools and health agencies.
- Take part in sport education festivals that promote lifelong physical activity.
- Coach and support youth through community and after-school programs.
Inspiring courses
- Qualitative Analysis of Human Movement
- Leadership Methods for Recreation and Health Education
- Strategies for Active Health
- Children and Youth with Special Needs in Physical Activities
Career possibilities
Physical and Health Education is one of four pathways at UVic toward becoming a school-based physical and health education teacher.
If teaching isn’t your goal, this program also prepares you for careers in coaching, fitness and sport leadership, and health and wellness education. You can also choose to add a Minor in Physical Education to broaden your career options.
Admission
Apply to the Faculty of Health and select Recreation and Health Education as your major. You can request to transfer to Physical and Health Education after one year of full-time study.
Learn more
Faculties & departments
Program planning