Physical Education and Exercise Physiology

The Department of Physical Education and Exercise Science promotes two objectives—service and scholarship. The various curricular options within the BA in Physical Education and BS in Exercise Physiology are designed to meet individual and job market demands. The flexibility of the program provides for preparation of physical education teachers for elementary and secondary schools; preparation of professionals in various fields related to physical education.

Activity Classes

Activity classes are designed to help students improve lifetime wellness skills and increase their appreciation and enjoyment of physical activity through participation in a wide variety of sport and exercise.

Facilities

Chico offers a broad variety of activities for students interested in physical activity, regardless of whether or not they intend to major in physical education. The department is housed in the new 64,000 sq. Ft. Yolo Hall located adjacent to the Shurmer Acker Gym complex.

Facilities include: exercise physiology, biomechanics, pedagogy labs, dance studios, a climbing wall, ropes course, two gymnasiums with four competition-size basketball courts, six handball/racquetball courts, swimming pools, all-weather track, soccer and multi-purpose fields, putting green and sand traps, weight training/fitness rooms, and athletic training rooms.

Career Outlook

As society increasingly recognizes the wellness needs of its citizens, graduates of the Department of Physical Education and Exercise Science will be prepared to respond to these needs. Multi-competency programming provides versatility most attractive to employers. Student-centered instruction coupled with hands-on practical experience prepares students for future career success.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Department of Physical Education and Exercise Science is to communicate and create knowledge about sport, exercise, and phyical activity. The department achieves its mission through innovative and engaging instruction, scholarship, and professional service. The uniqueness of our integrative discipline is that we work directly to promote lifelong learning and physical activity to enhance quality of life and health for all.