Exercise and physical activity is vital to our health. But to make sure exercise is effective, safe and fun, we need well-trained experts who understand the science of the human body and how best to coach others. In Biola’s physical education major, you’ll gain extensive knowledge of health, nutrition, fitness and leadership, preparing you to teach, coach or lead sports-related ministries.

Why Choose Physical Education at Biola?

In addition to its strong curriculum, expert faculty members and biblical integration, Biola’s physical education program offers several key advantages:

• Biola’s location in Southern California — one of the world’s largest and most diverse metropolitan areas — is ideal for internships and job opportunities.
• The university is home to top-notch athletics facilities, including a newly remodeled fitness center and athletic training room where students can put their education into action.
• Small classes give you an opportunity to form deep relationships with your professors and fellow students.
• Biola’s Health Careers Club educates, supports and builds community among all the pre-health career students on campus through guest speakers and other events.

What Will I Study?

The physical education major promotes the value and understanding of physical activity and human performance for lifelong health and wellness. Coursework integrates theory and application with biblical principles and practice. Learning topics and highlights include:

• Planning and implementing elementary school fitness activities
• History of physical education and kinesiology
• Developing and managing personal fitness programs
• Understanding human performance principles
• Functions of skeletal, muscular and nervous systems
• Acute responses of neuromuscular and respiratory systems
• Sports psychology in relation to rehabilitation strategies
• Teaching physical education for the handicapped
• Integration of faith and leadership

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Career Paths

Many career options in areas like sports medicine, media, education, ministry or athletic training await future graduates of Biola's physical education program.You can expect to impact the world for Jesus Christ through professions such as:

• Occupational therapist
• Athletic trainer
• Sports announcer or journalist
• Physical education teacher
• High school or college coach
• Youth sports camp director
• Chiropractor
• Physical therapist
• Secondary school teacher
• Athletic scout
• Nutritionist
• Umpire or referee

What are Graduates Doing Now?

Biola physical education majors usually earn a teaching credential and work in public and private schools settings, or teach and coach in various recreation venues or full-time sports ministry positions. Many graduates from the physical education major have gone on to study at the following distinguished schools: Azusa Pacific University; University of Southern California; Chapman University; California State University, Fullerton; California State University, Long Beach; and California State University, Northridge.