BGSU dual-licensure program in physical and health education expands career options for students

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4. BGSU dual-licensure program in physical and health education expands career options for students

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - As part of its leading teacher education preparation programs, Bowling Green State University offers a distinctive Physical Education and Health Education (PEHE) program that provides students with a dual-licensure track that allows for teaching in both subjects.

While many universities require students to choose between physical education or health education, the unique BGSU program expands career options for graduates and strengthens employer marketability.

"I will graduate licensed to teach any grade in health or physical education," said BGSU PEHE student Benjamin Cook. "I'm versatile. If a school needs me in the gym, I'm ready. If they need a classroom teacher, I can do that too."

That versatility is reinforced through extensive hands-on experience. While Ohio requires 100 hours of fieldwork, BGSU students like Cook complete more than 500 hours - working with students across grade levels and backgrounds.

Cook spent time with elementary students at Toledo Public Schools, Bowling Green's Conneaut and Kenwood Elementary Schools and Eastwood Local Schools near Pemberville, Ohio. He also logged field experience hours at Rossford High School outside Toledo.

"Field experience built my teaching confidence," Cook said. "I'll graduate with both a degree and years of real practice."

Cook always aimed to change lives through education, but his path to the PEHE program began as a camp counselor. There, he saw the impact of physical activity on kids.

"Young people have a lot on their plates," he said. "As a PEHE teacher, I can help them manage stress and develop healthy outlets they can use for the rest of their lives. That gives me a sense of purpose."

That purpose extends to every student he'll teach. With training in inclusive and adapted physical education from BGSU, Cook is prepared to support learners of all abilities - modifying activities for students with physical, sensory or intellectual disabilities.

"In my classes, I'll have a wide variety of learners," Cook said. "What makes PE special is that I teach everyone, regardless of their starting point. Thanks to BGSU, I know how to help every student learn and grow together."