Jersey City, N.J. – Effective with the start of the fall 2010 semester, Saint Peter’s College will implement a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education. The interdisciplinary degree prepares students to teach health and physical education programs and pursue careers in fitness and wellness training.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a projected 18% growth in health education related careers by 2018. Research performed by the New Jersey Department of Labor Statistics found that careers developing from a background in health and physical education are in high demand, and most needed in low-income urban and rural areas.
The program provides students with a solid foundation in the physical, social and behavioral sciences, as well as with educational principles that promote wellness and fitness. According to Richard Petriello, Ph.D., Interim Academic Dean, upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to apply teaching and learning theories to health and physical education; utilize information technology and research in the study of wellness and fitness; and acquire communication and leadership skills to promote wellness and fitness. Students will learn to address the social influences on behavior and to challenge students to take responsibility for their own health.
The opportunity to focus one’s area of study is available to students, so that they may become qualified to teach health education, physical education or both physical and health education, or concentrate in wellness and fitness training.
The development of the health and physical education program mirrors a component of the College’s strategic plan, VISION 2015, which necessitates professional programs grounded in the liberal arts and sciences.
Saint Peter’s College, founded in 1872, is a Jesuit, Catholic college in the liberal arts tradition located in the heart of Jersey City, N.J., with a branch campus in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., and course offerings on the Jersey City Waterfront and at various corporate sites throughout New Jersey. Educating over 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students in more than 50 programs, Saint Peter’s College is committed to academic excellence and individual attention, preparing students for a lifetime of learning, leadership and service in a diverse and global society.