Employment in the health and physical education area is expected to increase with programs for special groups and a greater interest in fitness and health such as private fitness centers. A large number of openings in the field of elementary and secondary school teaching are expected due to a large group of teachers reaching retirement age according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The Physical Education Studies degree program at Finger Lakes Community College is designed to prepare you for baccalaureate studies in Physical Education by building a solid liberal arts foundation.

The Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Physical Education Studies is suitable for students whose goals include coaching, teaching, sports management, and overall fitness and wellness careers. The program introduces you to the field of Physical Education and provides background knowledge and skills that are important to Physical Education professionals, with courses ranging from health, human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, and psychology to required liberal arts courses.

In addition, the College offers honors courses that provide enhanced educational experiences for students who have demonstrated outstanding academic ability. Enrollment in honors courses is open to qualified students enrolled in this degree program, as well as all other qualified FLCC students. Successful completion of honors courses or an Honors Certificate may increase student transfer options to four-year institutions.

Students in this program are introduced to high school physical education curriculum and receive a hands-on teaching experience in local schools.

Field trips to sports medicine departments at four-year colleges and universities such as Keuka College and Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and visits to colleges with athletic training programs such as SUNY Colleges at Brockport and Cortland are all a part of your experience in Physical Education Studies.

Students in this program generally transfer to four-year institutions such as SUNY Colleges at Brockport and Cortland* to pursue baccalaureate degrees in Physical Education. Finger Lakes alumni are currently teachers and coaches in school systems throughout New York State including Penn Yan, Newark, South Seneca, Gananda, Fairport, Lyons, Waterloo, and Churchville-Chili High Schools, as well as the Harley School, Allendale Columbia Schools, and in the Rochester School District.

* This is a sampling of some of the four-year colleges and universities to which our students have transferred. Please consult your advisor or the Center for Advisement and Personal Development for a complete listing of transfer agreements between Finger Lakes Community College and four-year institutions.