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Education Studies and Recreation 

Help people learn, grow, and thrive.

Welcome to the Department of Education Studies & Recreation—a dynamic ​​ ​convergence​ of CSU’s strengths in teaching, health promotion, physical education, and recreation. Whether you aspire to teach, coach, lead community programs, or promote healthy lifestyles, our innovative, student-centered department is your launch pad for meaningful, impactful careers. 

We build a diverse community of future teachers, coaches, health educators, and recreation professionals who are equipped to transform lives—one classroom, field, and community at a time. Our graduates: 

• Master evidence-based teaching and leadership practices.
• Learn to integrate technology and communication strategies in varied educational environments.
• Promote holistic well-being through inclusive, supportive programming.

ISBE-approved programs

All teacher licensure programs are approved by the ​Illinois State Board of Education​​ (ISBE​)​​, and are aligned with their respected Specialized Program Associations (SPA). 

Explore our programs

View Programs

Why choose to study with us?

• Comprehensive Pathways: Explore undergraduate and graduate programs that span education, physical education, recreation, and health, with options for both degree and non-degree seekers.
• Career-Ready Programs: You’ll be prepared for in-demand roles: classroom teaching, coaching, recreation administration, health education, and more.
• Flexible Credentials & Endorsements: Get initial or advanced educator licenses, earn endorsements in ESL, bilingual, and middle-level education, or pursue teaching, coaching, or recreation certification.
• Support at Every Step: From scholarships to tutoring, we champion first-generation college students and those seeking extra help as you excel academically and professionally.
• Community & Focus on Well-being: Learn to educate, motivate, and support diverse learners and community members, fostering lifelong wellness, inclusion, and leadership.

Explore more of our Program & Career Highlights

Career pathways for students

Our programs prepare students for careers such as:

• K-12 teachers and specialists
• Coaches and athletic program leaders
• Park and recreation managers
• Community health and wellness advocates
• Recreation therapists and sports administrators

Additional career paths include paraprofessional, teacher aide, early childhood educational director, tutor, content developer, consultant, non-profit administrator, personal trainer, group fitness instructor, athletic coach, and entrepreneur.

Compare career outcomes by major

Have you ever wondered how your major might help you after you graduate? See this for the state of Illinois! This tool contains useful data on how graduates from different majors are doing in the labor market, so you can explore questions like:

• How much money are they earning?
• What industries are they working in?
• How much debt do they graduate with?
• What occupations are they likely to hold?

Whether you’re declaring your initial major or considering a switch, this tool can help you make an informed choice.

Shape the future. Start here.

Whether you’re starting your academic journey or looking to advance your career, we have a program to fit your goals. Contact us today to get started.

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Program contact

Department Chair
Dr. Kimberly Garrett
Email: kgarre20@csu.edu
Phone: 773-821-2693