Physical Education
A.A. - Transfer Degree
Students can expect to develop theoretical knowledge in physical education and learn about physical education practices, especially those regarding lifetime wellness, sports, and general health. Programs typically emphasize training students to work with people of all demographics, focusing on helping people improve their quality of life through exercise.
Program Purpose
This degree prepares students for entry-level positions in physical fitness and physical education professions.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of the components of Physical Fitness.
- Demonstrate an understanding of age appropriate movements.
- Identify and understand current trends in Physical Fitness.
- Describe methods of maintaining and improving physical fitness based on individual needs.
- Explain proper techniques for motor and cognitive development through sports.
- Demonstrate teaching methodologies that are developmentally appropriate.
- Discuss the liability issues that are involved in physical fitness.
Program Map
Recommended Program Map / Program Requirements
This program map has been updated for new students starting in Fall 2025 (or after) to reflect the new Arizona General Education Curriculum (AGEC) requirements. Students following previous catalogs can find corresponding program maps in Self-Service/Student Planning. For official requirements, refer to the AWC Catalog.
The recommended plan below meets all program requirements. If the classes listed as recommended don’t align with your schedule or interests, alternative options are available. Visit Academic Planning to get started on your personalized Academic Plan or schedule an appointment with your Faculty Advisor or the Advisement Services Office.
Program Requirements Based on Fall/Spring rotation (AGEC certificate also included)
First Semester
| Course | Course Title | Credits | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| EDU 110 | Introduction to Education | 3 | Major Requirement |
| ENG 101 or ENG 107 |
Freshman Composition I/GE | 3 | GE-Written Communication |
| MAT 142 | College Mathematics/GE (or higher) | 3 | GE-Quantitative Reasoning |
| PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology/GE (recommended) | 3 | GE-Social & Behavioral Sciences |
| ART/HUM | Choose one course from Arts & Humanities | 3 | GE-Arts & Humanities |
| 15 |
Milestones:
- Meet professors one-on-one
- Research University Degree Program options
- Plan with your advisor after midterm grades posted
Co-Curricular Requirements:
- Register with Jobs 4 Matadors
- Attend AWC Majors Fair & Career Expos
Second Semester
| Course | Course Title | Credits | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENG 102 or ENG 108 |
Freshman Composition II/GE | 3 | GE-Written Communication |
| EXW 101 | Concepts of Kinesiology | 3 | Major Requirement |
| NTR 139 | Personal Nutrition | 3 | Major Requirement |
| PHI 105 | Intro to Ethics/GE (recommended) | 3 | GE-Arts & Humanities |
| BIO 181 | General Biology I | 4 | Major Requirement |
| 16 |
Milestones:
- Join a club
Co-Curricular Requirements:
- Attend Transfer Services Events
- Apply for Scholarships
Third Semester
| Course | Course Title | Credits | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| EXW 265 | Exercise for Special Populations | 3 | Major Requirement |
| EDU 200 | Lesson Planning | 2 | Major Requirement |
| BIO 201 | Anatomy and Physiology I/GE | 4 | GE-Natural Sciences |
| FAS 238 | Human Development/GE (same as PSY 238) (recommended) | 3 | GE-Social & Behavioral Sciences |
| SPC 215 | Public Speaking | 3 | GE-Oral Communication |
| EXW 150 | Nutrition for Exercise & Sport | 2 | General Elective |
| 17 |
Milestones:
- If transferring, apply to universities
Co-Curricular Requirements:
- Visit universities campus
- Apply for internship or volunteer opportunities
Fourth Semester
| Course | Course Title | Credits | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| BIO 202 | Anatomy and Physiology II/GE | 4 | GE-Natural Sciences |
| POS 221 | Arizona Constitution & Government | 2 | Major Requirement |
| POS 222 | National Constitution & Government | 1 | Major Requirement |
| INST/AME | Choose one course from Institutions in the Americas | 3 | GE-Institutions in the Americas |
| PEM 100 | Introduction to PERS | 3 | General Elective |
| DEPT REQ | Complete one course from each of the following groups: Group Exercise, Recreational Fitness, Sports, & Weight Training |
5 | Departmental Requirement |
| 18 |
Milestones:
- Apply for Graduation
Co-Curricular Requirements:
- Attend Etiquette Lunch
- Meet with Career Services
- Apply for university scholarship opportunities