Exercise increases physical energy, mental alertness and self-confidence. Many people also find that it stimulates creativity. Our physical education program is designed to help students find activities that are meaningful so that they can experience the rewards of exercise and develop skills for a lifetime of health and fitness. The program emphasizes participation and enjoyment in a non-competitive atmosphere, and suggestions for new activities are always welcome.

Undergraduate students are required to take four quarters (one year) of physical education, half of which must be completed in the first year; transfer students must complete two quarters of Physical Education. Registration for classes takes place four times a year. Classes meet once or twice per week for six weeks. Course offerings change with the seasons and may include yoga, tai chi, dance, swimming, basketball, bowling, nutrition, softball, aerobics, fencing, tennis and squash.

Physical Education credit is also granted for the following:

• Participation on intercollegiate athletic teams
• Independent workouts in the Caspar Whitney Fitness Center or the swimming pool, (three workouts per week for six weeks = 1 quarter).
• Courses taken in the Dance Department
• Some Theatre Department components

Students may apply for independent credit earned in off-campus classes/activities. Applications for independent credit are available in the Physical Education Office and must be approved by the Director. Students are not eligible for independent credit until they have completed at least one quarter of credit through the Physical Education Department.

Physical Education Requirement

1. Each undergraduate student must complete one year, (four quarters), of Physical Education.
2. Students must complete at least two quarters of Physical Education during their first year at the College.
3. Only one credit may be earned in each quarter.  Students are welcome to take more than one class.
4. Transfer students must complete two quarters of Physical Education.
5. Physical Education credit is granted for participation on intercollegiate athletic teams.
6. Physical Education credit may be earned by working out in the Caspar Whitney Fitness Center or the swimming pool within the dates of each quarter (three workouts per week for six weeks).  Note: Students must record their workouts in order to receive credit – see a fitness assistant or a lifeguard.
7. Physical Education credit is granted for courses taken in the Dance Department.
8. Physical Education credit may be earned through the Theatre Department by taking any of the components listed below. Note: No more than half of the total requirement (2 quarters) may be fulfilled in the Theatre Department. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the Physical Education department with verification of courses completed in other departments.
   • Actor in Action(Movement for the Stage)
   • Alexander Technique
   • Breathing Coordination for the Performer
   • Physical Comedy
   • Physical Mask
   • Poetic Dynamics
   • Stage Combat
9. Students may apply for independent credit earned in off-campus classes/activities.  Applications for independent credit are available in the Physical Education Office and must be approved by the Director. Students are not eligible for independent credit until they have completed at least one quarter of credit through the Physical Education Department.