Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education, Grades K-12
Department
Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies
College
College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Overview of the program
The BS in Health and Physical Education leads to teacher certification in Health and Physical Education (K-12). Graduates complete all requirements for teacher licensure in Louisiana and are certified to teach Health and PE in elementary, middle/junior high, and high schools.
Strengths of the program
- The Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies at Southeastern is one of the largest department of its type in Louisiana, with over 600 undergraduate majors, and offers a variety of degree programs in the diverse field of Health and Kinesiology.
- Students have access to four teaching/research laboratories (Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Strength & Conditioning, and Athletic Training) as well as an indoor heated pool and outdoor tennis courts.
- Faculty in the department are nationally-recognized scholars with strong records of publication. Students have opportunities to assist in ongoing research as well as engage in undergraduate research projects.
- Southeastern is recognized throughout the state and region as a leader in teacher education, and its graduates are highly sought after. The teacher education program at Southeastern is nationally accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), and the Health and PE degree is approved by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE).
Starting Salaries after completing the program (estimates only)
Starting salaries vary among school systems. Entry-level salaries of teachers in the parishes surrounding Hammond (e.g., Livingston, St Tammany, Tangipahoa) range from $32,000 to $34,000.
Campus organizations and activities affiliated with the program
PETE (Physical Education Teacher Education) Club
How do I know this is the degree for me?
Common Strengths and interests of students in the program
Helpful qualities for HPETE majors include:
- Interest in fitness, exercise, and sport
- Desire to work with and help people
- Interest in working with youth
- Strong communication skills
- Organizational and creative skills
Notable Alumni
Al Link
2006 Kinesiology and Health Studies Alumnus of the Year
Albert “Al” Link received an undergraduate and masters degree in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from Southeastern Louisiana University and also completed certification in Educational Administration and Supervision. He served the Hammond community and the Tangipahoa Parish School system for over 30 years working as teacher, coach, and administrator, including a 6-year stint as Principal of Hammond High School. Upon his retirement, he continued his association with the area’s education as a member of the Tangipahoa Parish School Board. Mr Link is also recognized for his work in sports officiating, particularly basketball. He was instrumental in the formation of the first organization of basketball officials for women’s high schools and colleges, supervised women’s basketball officials for the Southeastern Conference, American South Conference, and Sun Belt Conference, and served as Chair of the National Board of Women’s Basketball Supervisors. In 1997 he was named Citizen of the Year by the Hammond Daily Star newspaper.
Leroy Fanning
2002 Kinesiology and Health Studies Alumnus of the Year
Leroy Fanning received the BA in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from Southeastern Louisiana University in 1964 (where he was the first Roomie the Lion), followed by an EdD from the University of Georgia. At the time of this award, he was a Professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, where we worked since 1971. An active participant in professional organizations, Dr Fanning has been President of Southern District AAHPERD, and served the AAHPERD organization on committees and activities too numerous to mention. In 2002, he was awarded the AAHPERD R. Tait McKenzie Honor Award, and the National Association for Girls and Women in Sport Presidential Award. He is also a notable contributor to sport, having served as Tournament Director and Senior Sport Manager for USA Basketball for the 1996 Olympics, and tournament coordinator for several AAU/USA Girls Basketball National Championships.
Contact Information
Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies
Southeastern Louisiana University
SLU Box 10845
Hammond, LA 70402
(985) 549-2129
On Campus: Kinesiology and Health Studies Building, Room 120
Telephone: 985-549-2129
Fax: 985-549-5119
