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Bachelor of Health and Physical Education — Physical Literacy (BHPE)
Why study physical literacy?
Promote lifelong movement and help others lead healthier, more active lives.
Physical literacy is a powerful, holistic approach to health and wellness — one that inspires lifelong movement and well-being. More than just sports or fitness, it focuses on motivation, confidence and physical competence to help people thrive. At Mount Royal University in Calgary, our Bachelor of Health and Physical Education — Physical Literacy combines human kinetics, coaching, education and wellness promotion. You’ll build expertise in movement education and inclusive physical activity, while learning to empower individuals and communities through active living. Turn your passion for movement into a rewarding career in health promotion, coaching or youth programming, or extend your studies by completing a Bachelor of Education or pursuing graduate studies.
Program highlights
- Gain hands-on experience through two practicum placements in recreation, wellness programs or community settings
- Design inclusive programs for children, seniors and individuals with diverse physical and cognitive abilities
- Take your learning further with study abroad, field schools and community based service learning opportunities
- Prepare for dynamic careers in health promotion, wellness and coaching
Career possibilities
What jobs can I get with a physical literacy degree?
With a Physical Literacy degree, you’ll be ready to launch a meaningful career in physical education, community wellness or health promotion — or take the next step into graduate studies. This versatile degree opens doors to roles where you can lead, inspire and make a real impact, including:
* additional education, experience and/or training required
I still utilize much of what I learned at Mount Royal to this day. For example, when I’m working in the weight room with athletes here in Toronto, I’ll apply a lot of the principles I learned in my physical literacy courses.
— MRU alum, Noah Lewis
BHPE — Physical Literacy (2018)
Curriculum and courses
What courses will I take in physical literacy?
Develop the skills to lead, teach and inspire through movement science, physical activity and hands-on leadership.
Explore full curriculum and coursesYear 1
|Years 2-4
Curriculum snapshot – Year 1
Experiential learning
Gain hands-on experience to develop the skills and confidence to promote active, healthy lifestyles. Through practicum placements and applied coursework, you'll make an impact in diverse communities.
- Complete your work placement through two practicums while you explore careers in health and wellness
- Design and implement developmentally appropriate physical activity programs for children, seniors and specialized populations
- Take part in Community Service Learning to integrate academic study and community service for hands-on learning experiences
- Broaden your perspective through immersive study abroad and field school experiences
Admission requirements
When you apply to MRU, you’ll need to meet both general admission requirements and any additional criteria specific to your chosen program. Requirements can vary, so it’s important to review what’s needed for your area of interest.
Select your admission category:
High school
Post-secondary transfer
Mature student
Admission category: High school
High school applicants must submit five Grade 12 courses for admission. These five courses must include the required subjects for the program you’re applying to. These required subjects are part of Group A.
To complete your five courses, additional subjects may be used from Group A, B, or C.
More admissions info for high school applicantsWhat are the requirements for the Bachelor of Health and Physical Education — Physical Literacy?
- English Language Arts 30-1 - 60%
- Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2
- Biology 30
Applying from another province or country?
If you're applying from outside Alberta, you'll need to know which of your courses match Alberta Grade 12 courses.
Check out our provincial equivalencies chart if you're from another Canadian province or the international credentials chart if you're applying from outside Canada.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to meet two separate English requirements to be admitted to Mount Royal:
- You’ll need to successfully complete an English course if it’s part of your program’s admission requirements
- Show that you meet Mount Royal’s English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements
Admission deadlines
Fall 2026 intake
Early admission
Oct. 1, 2025 - Feb. 1, 2026
Ongoing admission based on program space and availability
Feb. 2, 2026 - programs closed
What is early admission?
During the early admission period, all applications are treated as though they were received at the exact same time. This means all competitively qualified applicants will be accommodated. At MRU, we actually receive most of our applications and fill many of our programs from applications submitted during early admission. It is an ideal time to apply and helps expedite the process so you hear back earlier too.
Early admission deadlines
Fall Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Feb 1.
Winter Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Nov. 1.
Costs
We know your investment in post-secondary education is a big deal. Make sure you’re on the right financial track by reviewing the costs, scholarships and financial support available.
How much does Bachelor of Health and Physical Education — Physical Literacy cost?
The cost of your studies depends on a few things, like the program you choose and whether you’ll live at home or in Residence.
To get a better idea of what you might spend, try using our first-year student budget estimator. It gives a detailed breakdown of estimated costs.
You can also visit our tuition and costs page for full details on tuition and fees for a full year.
Does MRU offer scholarships or financial aid?
At Mount Royal, we want you to focus on your education, not worry about how to pay for it. There are many ways to help cover the cost of your studies.
Scholarships and bursaries
Mount Royal gives out over $5 million each year in scholarships and bursaries! These awards look at things like your grades, financial need and your involvement in school or the community.
Financial aid
There are financial aid options from the provincial and federal governments for both full-time and part-time students. These include student loans, grants and bursaries.
Other resources
You can also explore other ways to pay, like using RESPs (Registered Education Savings Plans) or CPP (Canada Pension Plan) benefits.
How do I apply for scholarships and bursaries?
To be eligible for scholarships and bursaries, you must apply for Early Admission from Oct. 1 to Feb. 1. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries from Nov. 1 to March 1.
Have questions?
Our info sessions are a great way to explore MRU programs, learn how to apply and connect with people who are here to help.
Book an info sessionConnect with the Admissions and Recruitment Office for more one-on-one support.
Contact us
Why MRU
At MRU, learning is about more than lectures and textbooks. It’s about evolving through experience. With small class sizes, supportive faculty and hands-on opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, push boundaries and uncover what they’re capable of. MRU helps students build the skills, confidence and curiosity to shape meaningful futures in Calgary and beyond.
Discover why MRULearn about the additional supports and services we have available specifically for:
International students Indigenous studentsFaculty of Health, Community and Education
Mount Royal is pleased to offer four Bachelor of Health and Physical Education degrees, including majors in Athletic Therapy, Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership, Physical Literacy, and Sport and Recreation Management.
Virtual information sessions
Select a session that suits you. Choose from general information, specific by program, drop in Q&A, or attend an Indigenous or international student session.
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