Bluffton University students now have the opportunity to major in physical education. The four-year degree allows students to receive a multi-age license (Pre-K-12) to teach health and physical education.

“At Bluffton University, you can now combine your love of physical activity, building relationships and working with children and youth with a bachelor's degree in health and physical education,” said Dr. Joyce Jackson, assistant professor of education. “With two specializations, you can become a preschool to grade 12 teacher licensed in Ohio or a specialist who builds unique programs that give children and youth a love of a physically active lifestyle.”

The health and physical education major will help address the issue of under qualified teachers teaching health and physical education courses. According to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, in 2021-22 4.8% of high school Health Education courses were taught by teachers without proper certification and 4.4% of middle school Physical Education courses and 4.6% of high school Physical Education courses were taught by teachers without proper certification.  

Three new courses, Health Methods, Physical Education Methods and Drug Education were developed to meet the needs of the major and help prepare students for life as well as vocation.

“Through our nationally accredited education department, Bluffton University will significantly help the health and physical education field with the addition of this new major to current and incoming students,” said Claire Kleman, interim vice president of advancement and enrollment management. “With the interest and demand of health and physical education on the rise, there is no better time to add this major.”