Our Health and Physical Education (HPE) program brings together a comprehensive foundation of health sciences, understanding of physical activity, and skills in interacting with diverse people. At Western Sydney University you will gain the theoretical skills to analyse new challenges, and the practical skills required to help people improve their health. HPE graduates stand out for their holistic understanding of the concepts of health and physical activity and their relationship to other components of physical education. The HPE program is known for the international standard of its facilities. Western Sydney University has invested significantly in a new gymnasium and renovated the dance and gym facilities used for HPE. These are complemented by a wealth of sports venues in the local region, including Olympics facilities at Penrith, and the opportunity for outdoor activities in the Blue Mountains. The course explores challenging areas including youth health issues, sexuality, drugs, psychology and risk-taking behaviours, as well as general health science, including human biology, health systems, health promotion and research.

If you are serious about making a difference in people's lives, the Bachelor of Health Science (Health and Physical Education) program at Western Sydney University is the degree for you. Graduates work as personal trainers and sports coaches, while new opportunities are opening up in community-based recreation. Western will give you a broad set of skills that you can apply working in the fitness industry, the health sector, and the education sector. The Bachelor of Health Science (HPE) program is a popular pathway to a Master of Teaching (Secondary), and then on to a teaching career. Health and Physical Education Teaching (Primary/Secondary Schools) After completing a Master of Teaching, Health and Physical Education (HPE) graduates will be responsible for health education, personal development, and physical activity of students in government and non-government schools at the primary and secondary level. HPE teachers encourage students to develop healthy lifestyles, positive self-concept, social relationships, physical fitness and sport skills. HPE teachers have highly transferable skills in terms of planning, organisation, communication, public speaking, and leading teams of people. Teaching The Bachelor of Health Science (PDHPE) program is a popular pathway to a Master of Teaching (Secondary), and then on to a teaching career. You can extend your teaching opportunities beyond PDHPE by studying electives, such as science and mathematics, which lead into teaching. Note that admission to the Master of Teaching requires a separate application. Sport Coaching Sport coaches are responsible for improving sport performance, physical and mental health, and helping people enjoy lifelong physical activity. Sport coaches design and deliver physical and mental training from junior community based clubs and schools to high performance sport contexts. Community based education Education officers' work design and deliver education programs around specialist health, sport, and social support. They also visit schools and community groups to assist with the integration of these specialist education programs.