Education Specialisation Sport, Health and PE Secondary

The Education Specialisation in Sport, Health and Physical Education Secondary at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to prepare graduates to become dynamic and effective secondary school teachers with a focus on sport, health, and physical education. This comprehensive program combines theoretical knowledge with practical teaching skills to ensure that graduates are well-equipped to inspire and educate the next generation of students in the vital areas of physical activity and well-being. Throughout the course, students engage with a broad curriculum that covers pedagogy, curriculum development, classroom management, and assessment strategies specific to secondary education. In addition, the program emphasizes the importance of fostering a healthy lifestyle and promoting inclusive physical activity environments within schools. Students have opportunities to participate in practical teaching placements in diverse school settings, gaining valuable hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced educators. The program also incorporates contemporary issues such as youth fitness, sports psychology, nutrition, and safety in physical activities, ensuring graduates are prepared to address current challenges in secondary education. Emphasis is placed on developing strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills to confidently deliver engaging lessons that motivate students of varied backgrounds and abilities. Graduates of this specialization are qualified to teach in secondary schools across Australia, with a focus on sport, health, and physical education, contributing positively to the health and wellness of young people. The program is designed for individuals passionate about promoting active lifestyles and seeking a rewarding career in education, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in schools and communities. With a dedicated faculty of experts and industry connections, students receive a high-quality education grounded in the latest educational practices and research. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to support the development of physically active, healthy, and confident students, fostering lifelong benefits for individuals and society as a whole.

Program structure

Courses to be studiedUnits

Core courses10

Plus 3 x Shared courses 3

Plus 13 x Specialisation Courses14

Plus 5 x Second Teaching Area5

Plus 100 days of professional experience

Total    32

Course codeCourse name

Core courses:  

EDC1100Lifespan Development and Learning 

CMS1000Communication and Scholarship 

EDC1300Perspectives in Education

EDC1400Foundations of Curriculum and Pedagogy 

EDC2100Managing Supportive Learning Environments

EDC2200Indigenous Perspectives 

EDC2300Assessment and Reporting

EDC2400Diversity and Pedagogy

EDC3100ICT and Pedagogy

EDC4000Professional Placement and Portfolio

Shared Courses:

EDX1450HPE Curriculum and Pedagogy

EDX3250Adolescence: Issues and Challenges

EDX4150Transitions in Secondary Education 

Specialisation Courses:  

EDH1150Sociocultural Foundations of Sport and Physical Activity

EDH2151Practical Studies in Sport and Physical Activity

EDH2152Health and Wellbeing

EDH2253Biophysical Foundations of Sport and Physical Activity

EDH2254Pedagogy in Sport, Health and Physical Education

EDH3155Advanced Biophysical Studies in Sport and Physical Activity 

EDH3256Sports Organisation Management and Coaching

EDH3257Advanced Curriculum Studies in Health and Physical Education 

EDH3258Humans in Movement

EDH4259Sociology of Sport

EDS2401Middle Phase Curriculum and Pedagogy

EDS4250Literacies Across the Curriculum 

EDS4401Beginning Professional Practice 

EDS3450Senior Phase Curriculum and Pedagogy

Second Teaching Area Subjects:To be selected from the list in the program handbook 

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent
• meet pre-requisites for teaching areas
• From 2016 students will also need:
  • Year 12 maths A, B or C (4 SA) or equivalent
• Special entry pathways may be available. Please contact USQ. 

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 7.5 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 15/67

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 7.5 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

• Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent
• meet pre-requisites for teaching areas
• From 2016 students will also need:
  • Year 12 maths A, B or C (4 SA) or equivalent
• Special entry pathways may be available. Please contact USQ. 

The Bachelor of Education (Secondary) with a specialisation in Sport, Health, and Physical Education at the University of Southern Queensland offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. The university provides detailed information on potential funding sources, including government-funded schemes such as Austudy and Youth Allowance, which are available for eligible domestic students. These subsidies can significantly offset tuition fees and living expenses, making higher education more accessible and affordable. Additionally, the university encourages students to explore scholarship opportunities specifically tailored for students pursuing teaching degrees or specialising in Sport, Health, and PE. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, community involvement, or specific criteria related to the sports and health sectors.

International students can access different funding programs, including student loans and scholarships that are sometimes available through partner organizations or government agencies in their home countries. To assist students in planning their finances, the university provides comprehensive guidance on fee payment schedules, payment plans, and the possibility of part-time employment opportunities both on and off-campus. The university’s careers service also offers advice on internships and other practical experiences that can sometimes include financial stipends.

The total cost of study includes tuition fees, which vary depending on the number of subjects taken and whether the student is domestic or international. For domestic students, the base tuition fee for most undergraduate programs can be reduced through Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which subsidises part of the cost. For international students, the fee is payable in full and is outlined clearly in the university's fee schedule. The university recommends that students budget for additional costs such as textbooks, learning materials, health insurance (for international students), and living expenses.

Financial aid options at USQ are also complemented by external sources such as private scholarships, community grants, and sponsorships. The university’s financial aid office provides personalized support and advice to help students identify the most suitable funding pathways for their circumstances. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships and financial assistance, as many programs have limited funding and competitive selection criteria. Overall, the combination of government support, scholarships, and flexible payment options aims to make pursuing a degree in Sport, Health, and PE Secondary at USQ financially feasible and manageable for a diverse student body.

The Education Specialisation in Sport, Health and PE Secondary at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to prepare future educators to effectively teach physical education and health at the secondary school level. This program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of sport science, health promotion, and pedagogical skills necessary for engaging students in active and healthy lifestyles. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical teaching experiences, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to foster physical activity, sport participation, and health awareness among their students. Throughout the course, students explore topics such as biomechanics, exercise physiology, sports psychology, and youth health issues, gaining a solid foundation to support diverse student needs and promote inclusive learning environments. The program also emphasizes contemporary issues in physical education, including the promotion of lifelong fitness, respect for diversity, and the development of leadership skills through sports. Practical placements at secondary schools are a key component, providing real-world teaching experience and mentoring opportunities with experienced educators. Graduates of this program are prepared to work in various educational settings, contributing to student health and well-being through innovative teaching methods and a passion for physical activity. The program aligns with national teaching standards and aims to produce well-rounded teachers who can motivate students to lead active, healthy lives. With a focus on both content knowledge and pedagogical skill development, the Education Specialisation in Sport, Health and PE Secondary at USQ offers students a pathway into meaningful and impactful careers in education, supporting the health and physical development of future generations.