Understanding the Course:

Making Physical Education an essential part of our children's education and development.

Understanding Physical Education Physical education (PE) is an important influence on the long-term health of our children. As such, it is an integral part of the education process, one that promotes the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of a child, as well as their attitude to activity, learning and each other. This is embraced through involvement in games, health related fitness, aquatics, gymnastics, dance, athletics and outdoor adventure education.

Physical Education with Biology Biology is fundamental to the knowledge and understanding of the body and how it works and it is an excellent subject to combine with physical education.

As a graduate you will be qualified to teach general science to Junior Certificate level and PE and biology to Leaving Certificate level. Both the PE and biology elements of this course have already obtained approval from the Teaching Council for registration as a secondary teacher.

About You:

To succeed on this course you will need:

• A passion for sport and exercise and science.
• Evidence of past participation in, enjoyment of, and an enthusiasm for involvement in sport and exercise.
• A willingness to teach others, and to help them learn.
• An analytical mind, particularly in relation to the body and how it works.
• An interest in applying scientific principles to the body and how it works.
• An enthusiasm for learning and understanding how others learn and develop through good teaching.

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the University the following requirements apply: OC3 or HD3 in Mathematics PLUS OC3 or HD3 in one of physics, chemistry, biology, physics with chemistry, agricultural science.

Course Structure:

This course involves three strands - Physical Education, Biology and Education Studies.

Physical Education
The physical education element of the course has theoretical and practical aspects: The theoretical part involves the academic study of human movement through subjects like psychology, biomechanics (science of movement) and sociology. The practical elements will enhance your teaching effectiveness by engaging you in a range of competitive, aesthetic, adventure, aquatic and artistic activities.

Biology You will learn the core elements of the biology curriculum, including mammalian anatomy and physiology, cell biology, genetics, health and junior cycle physics and chemistry. These are enhanced through exposure to laboratory work, ensuring that your theoretical knowledge is put into practice.

In Year Two you will cover elements of the junior cycle physics and chemistry syllabi in an innovative and educationally stimulating way.

Years Three and Four allow you to specialise in sport and exercise physiology, from both a theoretical and practical perspective.

Education Studies
This part of the course integrates educational theory and practice through 'coaching rather than teaching'. This involves group work, reflective diaries, online reporting and reflection, case studies and other problem based learning approaches to the acquisition of the skills, knowledge and mindset necessary to teach in a changing environment.

Teaching Practice
To put all of this into practice, and to provide invaluable experience, you will be placed in schools during Years Two and Four. This is teaching practice at its best and gives you an opportunity to explore and clarify many of the key issues that will define your practice as a teacher.

View the subjects currently taught on this course (2012 - 2013)

• A modern course developed to meet the changing needs of young people today in relation to physical activity, exercise and sport.
• A unique opportunity to study the human body and its role in physical activity, sport and health.
• A mixture of applied physical education classes, laboratories, lectures, tutorials and seminars.
• The course is supported by state-of-the-art teaching and physiology, biomechanics and psychology laboratories.
• A small number of places reserved for elite sports men and women.
• Relatively small classes will allow for individual attention from high quality staff.

What Our Students Say
"If you have a passion for sport, science and teaching, then Physical Education with Biology is the course for you. The facilities on offer in DCU are top class and with the help from our passionate lecturers, it makes the journey to become a teacher all the more enjoyable."
William Coyne, PE with Biology, 2011

Career Prospects:

When you graduate you will be qualified for teaching posts at all second-level schools (vocational, secondary, community and comprehensive schools), and for admission to the Open Register of the Teaching Council. Through the many skills you have learned on this course you can also pursue other options such as coaching, sports development or further education.

Entry Requirements:

Transfer Applications
Applications are welcome from students who have successfully completed a Higher Diploma (Level 8) in a related field of study or students who have successfully completed or are about to successfully complete one year of study on a degree course (Level 7 or 8) awarded by the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC) (formerly the National Council for Education Awards (NCEA) or by a university established under the Universities Act 1997, or an equivalent qualification awarded by a similar body outside of the State. It is NOT necessary for the cadidate to have studied in a similar or related subject to the course to which they are applying.

International Applications
International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. For further information on international applications click here.

How to Apply and Closing Dates

All Non-EU Candidates
Candidates should apply directly to DCU. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis up to the 1st July. All non-EU candidates are advised to apply early as places are limited.

Make an Application

Candidates required to apply through the CAO can apply online at http://www.cao.ie/
Candidates required to apply directly to DCU can download, print and complete a direct application form by clicking here

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Fee information