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.
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.
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.
Recommended background
There are no specific Year 12 or 13 level subjects required for admission. However, biology is helpful and physical education is recommended.
Choose a study option
Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Undergraduate qualifications
For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.
Take the first step towards your future in this subject.
Further study opportunities
Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.
Note: PTWY 131 is only available to students enrolled in the Diploma in Science.
18
200-level
Three of: SPEX 203 Exercise Physiology SPEX 205 Physical Activity and Health SPEX 206 Te Pū o te Ora Māori Physical Education and Health SPEX 207
Understanding Sports Coaching
54
300-level
Four of: SPEX 306 Te Pou o te Koronga Advanced Māori Physical Education and Health SPEX 307 Coaching, Leadership and Mentoring SPEX 308 Psychology of Physical Activity SPEX 309
Active Living and Environment SPEX 310 Exercise for Clinical Populations SPEX 316 Practicum
72
Plus
162 further points. Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Science.
Contact our Schools' Liaison and International teams
Want to connect with a real person and get some advice? Find your Schools' Liaison officer, chat with our International team in New Zealand or your own country, or submit a question through our online form.
