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Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Movement and Health Studies)/Bachelor of Education (Middle and Secondary)

Program overview

With a focus on health and physical education studies, the Bachelor of Applied Science, Bachelor of Education double degree provides relevant and engaging preparation for those intending to teach health and physical education within a middle and secondary school setting. It aims to produce proactive professionals who are responsible and responsive to the needs of the communities in which they work and who possess a critical awareness of the broader social, political, historical and economic contexts of education.


The program focuses on preparing skilled and committed professionals who are capable of applying knowledge of human physical activity from multiple perspectives within a variety of school and community settings. This program also provides an option for students to develop a second teaching area in science and an opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies.


What will I study?

The program combines a study of human movement, health and physical education, contemporary education studies and a series of practical teaching experiences. The early part of the program features an interdisciplinary foundation of studies in the bioscience and socio-cultural aspects of human movement. The Health and Physical Education study stream extends in a series of relevant, problem-based courses that are integrated to develop the knowledge and skills required for work in this field. This includes a focus on dance, game theory and practice, fitness and lifestyle, outdoor education, leadership, sport analysis and health education. Students participate in a variety of practical sessions across the program to apply theory to practice; appreciate diverse forms of physical activity; develop skills in movement, observation, analysis, prescription and education; and learn to act as role models for active and healthy living practices.


Students also undertake contemporary courses in education to enhance their development as professional educators. These include studies of the ethical and social contexts of education; the nature of learning and quality teaching; the skills of developing and critically evaluating curricula; programming; and addressing the diverse needs of adolescent learners.
Throughout the program students undertake practical teaching experiences that include a variety of peer teaching presentations and a developmental Lab School teaching program with middle school students. Two major school placement practicums of approximately six weeks and five weeks full-time are scheduled in the final two years of study. Applicants need to ensure they can fulfil these commitments.


What does it take?

To successfully complete the double degree students need to be motivated and self directed, have a focused, enthusiastic and open-minded approach to their studies and take responsibility for their learning. They need to possess a desire to help others to learn, a commitment to the process of education and a passion for advocating healthy, active lifestyles.


Teachers need to genuinely care for students physically, socially, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually, and have a commitment to facilitating holistic growth and development. They must be confident and competent, well organised, sophisticated communicators, flexible problem-solvers, patient, empathetic, and genuinely interested in educating and working with young people.


Who will employ me?

Graduates find employment opportunities nationally and internationally in schools and community education settings. Key employers include the Department of Education and Children’s Services (DECS) in South Australia, Catholic Education Australia, and independent, Lutheran, Christian, Anglican and Uniting Church schools.


Health and physical educators can also gain employment in a variety of government, private business sector, and community agencies. This can include health and fitness centres, sporting organisations, sports performance laboratories, community health and rehabilitation centres, ecotourism and outdoor education organisations, and recreation or health promotion departments.
 

More information relating to this program

 

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