Program Description The Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education and Kinesiology (PEAK) at CSUB covers a broad knowledge base that represents several disciplines that include traditional physical education, exercise science, athletic training, coaching, and health science education. Students majoring in Physical Education and Kinesiology have two concentrations to choose from: Physical Education and Exercise Science.

Students who complete the Concentration in Physical Education will fulfill requirements for the State of California Single Subject Credential in Physical Education as established by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC). Students wishing to teach in the junior-high and senior-high school levels will be required to take additional courses to obtain the single subject teaching credential (in addition to the Physical Education concentration curriculum). Students who desire to coach as well as teach have the opportunity to select various theory of coaching courses within the major to prepare for coaching careers.

The Concentration in Exercise Science prepares students for careers in the fitness/wellness industry (e.g., corporate fitness) and certain clinical rehabilitation settings (e.g., cardiac rehabilitation). This concentration also provides students with the opportunity to prepare for advanced studies in related disciplines (e.g., masters degree in exercise science) and professional academic programs (e.g., physical therapy). This concentration follows current guidelines for academic programs in exercise physiology/science established by the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) and prepares students for nationally recognized professional certifications offered by ASEP, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

Other academic preparations offered by the department in addition to the major include a minor in Physical Education and Kinesiology, a series of Theory of Coaching courses, and a Health Science Education course series. Also, the department offers a variety of activity courses (100-level) for recreational/fitness purposes. These activity courses are offered on a credit/no-credit basis and are not applicable to the Physical Education and Kinesiology major requirements. Only 8 units of 100-level activity courses may be applied toward the 186-unit CSUB graduation requirement. Enrollment in PEAK 160 (Jogging), 161 (Walking), and 162 (Biking) is limited to a combined total of two units per quarter. Requirements for the Major Students interested in majoring in Physical Education and Kinesiology should obtain general information about the program early in their lower division career.

After declaring a major in Physical Education and Kinesiology, they should meet with an appointed advisor within the department to plan a course of study in a specific concentration. This is essential given that certain courses are offered only once a year and that many courses have prerequisites that require completion of sequenced non-major and major courses in order to fulfill these requirements. In order to graduate, majors must earn a grade of "C" or better in all PEAK courses as well as cognate and elective courses required for the major.