Health Education Career Map

Awareness

First Year

• Understand that this is a 120-credit hour degree that can be completed in eight semesters.
• Recognize that the program leads to a Class B Teaching Certificate for grades 6-12 in Alabama.
• Awareness of the diverse content areas you will study, including nutrition, drug education, and human anatomy.
• Learn about the "Professional Readiness" standards required for teacher candidates at the University of South Alabama.

Second Year

• Identify the transition into applied field experiences where you will practice teaching in secondary school settings.
• Awareness of the program's focus on using technology to enhance health education instruction.
• Recognize the importance of mastering educational psychology and foundations to effectively manage a classroom.
• Understand the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with teaching sensitive topics like human sexuality and safety education

Last Years

• Recognize the residency requirement, which involves extensive clinical practice in a 6-12 classroom setting.
• Stay informed about the Praxis subject-area tests required for health education certification in Alabama.
• Understand the professional standards for evaluating health programs and student learning outcomes

Exploration

First Year

• Explore the dual role of a health educator as both a teacher and a wellness advocate within a school community.
• Visit the Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport to meet with faculty like Dr. Craig Parkes.
• Investigate the "Graduation Plan" to see how content courses and education courses are balanced over four years.

Second Year

• Explore specialized topics within the curriculum, such as community health or hunger and nutrition.
• Participate in departmental news and events to learn about current trends in adolescent health and wellness.
• Utilize field experiences to observe different teaching styles in middle vs. high school environments.

Last Years

• Network with local school district administrators during career fairs and internship placements.
• Research the impact of health education on long-term student outcomes and public health.
• Explore related roles such as health coaching or community health coordination for nonprofit organizations.

Preparation

First Year

• Maintain a high GPA, as admission to the teacher candidacy phase is competitive.
• Consult with academic advisors early to ensure all general education and foundational science prerequisites are met.
• Apply for scholarships and financial assistance available through the College of Education and Professional Studies.

Second Year

• Master the ability to plan, implement, and evaluate health programs for diverse student populations.
• Gain hands-on experience in laboratory and field settings to refine your instructional skills.
• Begin preparing for the Praxis exams required for Alabama state certification.

Last Years

• Complete the intensive student teaching internship, demonstrating your ability to lead a classroom independently.
• Finalize your professional teaching portfolio, highlighting your ability to apply current health research to practice.
• Practice interview techniques that focus on classroom management and the delivery of developmentally appropriate health information.