The BSc (Hons) in Physical Education Studies with Business is designed to enable students to create, plan and deliver curricula, which integrate practical expertise and theoretical knowledge, appropriate to teaching Physical Education and Business, to a diverse range of learners in an educational context. This course specifically advances to focus on curricular Physical Education, Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) / Wellness and Business as required by the Irish Teaching Council. Graduates of the programme will gain knowledge, skills and competencies that will equip them to constructively contribute to curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation both within their schools and a national context.

On completion of this programme, in order to be eligible to register as a teacher, graduates must complete a separate teacher qualification, such as a Professional Master in Education. Graduates of the B.Sc. (Hons) in Physical Education Studies with Business will be eligible to apply to a number of Professional Master of Education (PME) programmes in Ireland or similar postgraduate teaching programmes in the UK. Within Ireland, graduates will be eligible to apply for the PME in Physical Education in the University of Limerick, or a PME in business offered in a number of third level institutions nationally. Alternatively, students may apply for the merged PE and Business PME offered by the University of Limerick.

All course material is delivered through a blend of applied theory and practice. Students complete a generic first two years exposing them to a broad range of areas in the fields of Health, Sport, Wellbeing and Business. These areas provide a strong foundation for teaching the full breadth of the Physical Education and Business curricula in post-primary schools. The latter two years of the programme focus heavily on the curricular areas of Physical Education and Business, to dovetail with future PME studies. A focus of SPHE/Wellbeing is also a key feature throughout the programme. The final year of the programme also features an extended teaching practice placement across both primary and post primary settings and a final year research project.

This degree programme involves vigorous physical activity, eligible candidates will need medical clearance. Garda vetting is also mandatory.

The study of Physical Education has been a core component to the programme offerings in the Department of Health and Leisure Studies since 2005. The Department has a strong team of Physical Education specialists who have developed and delivered this programme to hundreds of graduates who went on to excel in the field of teaching quality Physical Education in Ireland and internationally.

The Department of Health and Leisure Studies is characterised by its progressive, innovative and approachable academic and support staff, its vibrant and engaging students and the valued contribution it makes to campus life.

Graduates will have a Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree in Physical Education Studies with Business and, in addition, a variety of discipline-specific professional certifications. Students are expected to become sufficiently competent practitioners to become eligible for professional fitness instructor registration in group exercise and gym instruction. Graduates will have covered curricular requirements, published by the Irish Teaching Council, in Physical Education and Business. In addition, students will be very familiar with the important role of SPHE / Wellness programmes in schools.

The BSc in Physical Education with Business is designed to enable students design and deliver programmes and classes, which integrate practical expertise and theoretical knowledge, appropriate to PE and Business, to a diverse range of participant groups and individuals in an educational context.

Graduates will have specific insights into the theory and practice of inclusive sport and physical activity and in inclusive physical education, specifically intended to include people with disabilities in mainstream PE classes and in adapted physical activity settings.

All course material is delivered through a mix of applied theory and practice. This blend of teaching and learning approach prepares the student to be competent and confident in their practice as a professional educator.

As this course meets Teaching Council requirements for both Physical Education and Business, graduates are eligible to apply for a Professional Master or Education (PME) programme in either Physical Education or Business.

Physical Education Studies with Business graduates will ultimately work within the school environment, and will also have competencies to deliver in youth work, adult education and broader community sport and leisure settings.

Graduates of this course are also in a position to develop, influence and advocate for policy, provision and practice in education, inclusive education, community development and similar sectors, while maintaining health, wellbeing and fitness and optimal performance as central paradigms of their careers.