Department of Health, Physical Education & Recreation (HPER)

Our mission is to prepare graduates who can compete and interact effectively within the continually evolving fields of physical education, health, sport, and recreation.

HPER students participate in a wide variety of experiences that go beyond classroom work. You will be exposed to professors from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences. In addition, the HPER faculty members are dedicated educators who regularly engage in professional development activities on the national, state and local levels to stay abreast of information and contribute to the growth of the profession. 

STUDENT ORGANIZATION  |  ADVISORS  |  SCHOLARSHIPS

 

Trainer working with client
Trainer working with client

 

"He who has health has hope; and he who has hope has everything. "
Arabian Proverb

Our Programs

You will be challenged to be actively engaged in the learning process by applying practical application and critical thinking skills learned in your coursework.  Our programs will prepare you to be a part of the solution to improve health and fitness. 

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The Bachelor of Science degree in physical education is designed to prepare physical education teachers for Florida schools with professional educator certification and the nation.

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The Master of Science degree in Sport Management provides graduates with training for careers in sport management professions.

 

Other Concentrations and Endorsements

We offer certification programs with concentrations or endorsements in health, dance, athletic coaching, aquatics, and driver education.

Swimming coach holding stop watch
Curriculum

Courses in the Aquatics Management concentration provides eligibility for American Red Cross Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor certificates as well as Water Safety Training for Swim Coaches and Aquatics Facility Operators credential from National Recreation and Parks Association

Dance teacher leading dance class
Curriculum

Courses in the Dance concentration allow the graduate to teach dances in different out of schools settings.

Personal trainer leading aerobics class
Curriculum

Courses in the Exercise Science & Coaching concentration allow the graduate to apply for the Coaching certification from the Florida Department of Education.

Teacher helping student in Health class
Curriculum

The Health Promotion concentration meets the specialization requirements for certification in Health (K-12) in the State of Florida.

Scholarships

The following scholarships and other financial awards are available to HPER students on a competitive basis. All students pursuing a degree in HPER are encouraged to apply for such financial assistance through the Dept. of HPER and the College of Education.

The families of Robert “Pete” Griffin and Hansel Tookes established an endowed scholarship as a lasting memorial to honor their outstanding accomplishments and as a reflection of the dedication the two men had for promoting excellence at Florida A&M University (FAMU). The Griffin-Tookes Endowed Scholarship is intended to provide financial support to FAMU’s outstanding athletes and physical education majors.

Criteria:
GPA 2.5 or above
Commitment to pursuing a degree in Physical Education
Member of PEPS Club
Florida Resident              
Award: $1,500 annually

Coach Costa and Emma Kittles established the Costa Kittles Endowed Athletic and Physical Education Scholarship.  The scholarship is intended to provide financial support for students pursuing studies in physical education and participating in athletics at Florida A&M University (FAMU).

Criteria:
GPA 2.5 or above
Classification: Junior Level Baseball Player
Commitment to pursuing a degree in Physical Education
Excels in the sport of baseball
Candidates will be recommended by Head Baseball Coach
Award: $1,000 annually

PEPS members form intramural teams, travel to state and national conferences, hold fundraisers to support their activities, and meet frequently to network about courses, teachers, careers, and to have fun.
PEPS members form intramural teams, travel to state and national conferences, hold fundraisers to support their activities, and meet frequently to network about courses, teachers, careers, and to have fun.

Student Organization (PEPS)

All students declaring a major within the Dept. of HPER are encouraged to participate in the majors club: Physical Education Professional Students (PEPS).

PEPS provides the opportunity for majors to learn leadership skills, participate in group decision-making, and enjoy the fellowship of friends with similar interests.  PEPS is a student organization sanctioned by the Student Government Association (SGA) and elects its officers from its membership each year.  PEPS members form intramural teams, travel to state and national conferences, hold fundraisers to support their activities, and meet frequently to network about courses, teachers, careers, and to have fun. 

Check with the Department Chair or PEPS faculty advisor to find out how you can get involved. 

 

The Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) faculty members serve out students not just by providing adacemic instructions but also by providing academic advisements.
The Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) faculty members serve out students not just by providing adacemic instructions but also by providing academic advisements.

Advisors

The Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) faculty members serve out students not just by providing adacemic instructions but also by providing academic advisements.