Social and physical bases of mauri ora or flourishing wellness.
Physical education with physical activity and health have been combined to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of the theory and practices of health, wellness and well-being for individuals, communities and populations, whatever their health status.
Physical education, activity and health captures the reasons why we should all be physically active, the physiology behind how physical activity works to influence health, and how to prescribe exercise.
It includes how we can encourage people to be more active, as well as coaching, teaching and instructing about the relevance of physical activity. We focus on the importance of communities, including Māori communities, as well as understanding how the environment relates to being active.
Physical education, activity and health will also appeal to those interested in teaching or coaching sport and exercise. It is designed to equip students with a strong background in the biophysical and socio-cultural sub-disciplines of human movement.
In addition, there is a strong emphasis on applied practice and theory.
No new enrolments will be accepted for the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) from 2024.
The University has developed a proposal to transfer the Physical Education, Activity and Health major subject option from the BAppSc to the Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree, as well as the BASc and BComSc combined degrees. This proposal is awaiting final approval, which is expected soon.
AskOtago is available to help with any course advice enquiries:
Contact AskOtago
Why study Physical Education, Activity and Health?
Physical education and physical activity influences all areas of a person’s health and wellbeing. Physical education, or how we learn, teach, coach and instruct, is critical for positive health and wellbeing.
You can learn how to prescribe exercise for healthy individuals and for sedentary populations. You will appreciate and learn how to utilise the strength of wider communities to promote physical activity. You will have the opportunity to engage in practical learning inside and outside of the classroom and exercise laboratories including our specially designed practicum paper.
The course offers a strong Māori physical education and health focus.
Background required
There are no specific Year 12 or 13 level subjects required for admission. However, biology is helpful and physical education is recommended.
Career opportunities
Career opportunities include physical education teaching, working with Māori communities, physical activity and health promoters, green prescription, health and fitness professionals, sport coaching, prescribing exercise in healthy and sedentary populations, wellness facilitators, and leadership roles.
Qualifications
Explore your study options further. Refer to enrolment information found on the following qualification pages.
- Bachelor of Applied Science* (BAppSc)
- Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc)
- Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc)
- Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad)
*It is a requirement that every Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) normally includes an approved minor subject or an approved second major subject. Usually such a minor or second major subject must be selected from the approved combinations of major subjects with minor or second major subjects. Some exceptions may apply. For details see:
Full list of available approved minor and second major subject areas
Programme requirements
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) majoring in Physical Education, Activity and Health
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 100-level | SPEX 101 Sport, Science and Society SPEX 102 Principles of Exercise for Health and Performance ANAT 101 Anatomy for Sport and Exercise (or HUBS 191 and HUBS 192) PHSL 101 Physiology for Sport and Exercise (or HUBS 191 and HUBS 192) | 18 18 18 18 |
| 200-level | Three of: | 54 |
| 300-level | Four of: | 72 |
| Plus | 162 further points, including either requirements for an approved minor or approved second major subject or other approved paper | 162 |
| Total | 360 |
Papers
Key information for future students
Contact us
School of Physical Education Sport & Exercise Sciences
Tel +64 3 479 8991
Email physical-education@otago.ac.nz
Website otago.ac.nz/sopeses
