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.

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.

Areas of focus

Physical and Health Education
Recreation and Wellness
Health Promotion

Sample 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

Jump to admission requirements

Physical education

The Physical and Health Education program is one of four pathways that we offer towards a physical education career. If teaching isn’t your goal, this program also prepares you for careers in coaching, fitness and sport leadership, and health and wellness education.

Learn how to become a physical education teacher

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.
Active Start @ UVic: Volunteer with children who have developmental disabilities and help design fun, inclusive physical activities through programs connected to Special Olympics.

Admission requirements

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.