Bachelor of Physical and Health Education at Nipissing University

Program Description

The Bachelor of Physical and Health Education (BPHE) is a four-year degree program that balances the science-based study of human movement with curricular opportunities that broaden socio-cultural experiences and promote health and wellness through physical activity.

In addition to prepared community leaders, the BPHE program offers students an opportunity to meet the requirements for registration in the College of Kinesiology of Ontario.

Our Teaching Approach

The BPHE program is designed to provide students with a balanced curriculum that includes lectures, labs, seminars, physical activities, research opportunities, individual study, and community placements. Studies are enhanced with components of the program being offered both on and off campus.

Unique elements of the Nipissing BPHE program include:

• ‘Practical’ Physical Education courses — students are required to take applied physical activity courses every semester! Examples include soccer, volleyball, basketball, hockey, aquatics, gymnastics, canoeing, rackets, dance, yoga, baseball, golf, track & field, rugby, combatives, navigation, nordic skiing, curling, downhill skiing, canoe tripping, winter camping, mountain biking, and more!
• Community Leadership Placement — students are placed in their third and fourth year within local health and physical activity organizations (e.g. schools, hospitals and clinics, sports teams, rehabilitation centres, etc) to contribute to their development as leaders in their field and to develop ongoing relationships with community-based services.
• Flexibility to select courses leading to degree completion with either an emphasis on the pedagogy of Physical and Health Education (e.g. for careers leading to Teaching and/or Coaching) or on the development as a health and exercise professional (e.g. for careers leading to Kinesiology and other allied health professions).

Community Leadership Placement

The Community Leadership Placement is a non-paid work experience in an approved community setting that complements course work, previous experience, and future goals. The placement is founded on a model of community-based learning as an instrument of experiential education. It is an engaging opportunity for students to combine active learning with current community concerns. The community collaboration allows all to take advantage of each group’s strength so student learning is enriched and organizational objectives are met. You have the power to provide real-life experience that connects today’s students to their community and to inspire them to become tomorrow’s leaders.