Tēnā koutou katoa, greetings and welcome to the School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences!
Our School has an international reputation for excellence in teaching and research in the biophysical and social study of human movement, sport, exercise science and physical activity. This standing is reflected in our 11th place globally in the QS World University Rankings for sport-related subjects, and underpins our commitment to advancing knowledge that is both rigorous and relevant, while preparing our students to contribute positively across diverse professional contexts.
What distinguishes the School is the quality and dedication of our staff, the strength of our interdisciplinary approach, the calibre of our facilities, and the depth of our engagement with communities and stakeholders. Whether you are a student, alumnus, or visitor, you will be joining a collegial and supportive academic community that values curiosity and collaborative impact.
I warmly welcome you and encourage you to engage fully with the intellectual life of the School and the personal opportunities it supports.
Ngā mihi mahana / kind regards,
Professor Michael Sam
Dean (Interim)
History of the School
The School of Physical Education opened in March 1948 with an intake of 30 students studying for a 3-year Diploma in Physical Education. Philip Ashton Smithells (PAS) was appointed first Director of the School in 1947.
By the end of its first decade, the School had an annual intake of between 30 and 40 students. By the end of the 1960's, the intake had increased to 80 students and had produced some 400 graduates. In 1975 a 4-year Bachelor of Physical Education (BPhEd) degree was introduced. This coincided with the retirement of Professor Philip Smithells after 28 years at the helm. The BPhEd degree had a heavy science orientation and was limited to 15 students. In 1979 a Master of Physical Education (MPhEd) degree was introduced.
In 1983 the School made major changes in the structure of the BPhEd degree to reflect a strengthening of the social sciences. By the end of the 1980's the annual intake was 120 students.
In 1988 distance teaching courses were added to the School's programme. The Diploma in Sports Studies and the Certificate in Fitness Management attracted approximately 120 students.
In 1992 the annual intake of students reached 200. During this decade, papers in sports coaching and sports management were added to the programme.
A new building with excellent computing, teaching and research equipment was opened at 55 Union Street West in 1994. This world-class building had state-of-the-art biomechanics, exercise physiology and motor control laboratories, as well as the Flume, a unique aquatic and controlled environmental facility.
In the 1990's four majors were introduced into the BPhEd degree: Exercise and Sport Sciences, Exercise Prescription and Management, Professional Studies, and Sport and Leisure Studies.
In the late 1990's there were approximately 950 students enrolled in all courses offered by the School including distance teaching courses, undergraduate and honours degrees, a postgraduate Diploma, a Master's degree and PhD study, with 19 students enrolled.
In 2015 the School changed its name to the School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences to better reflect the breadth of the curriculum.