Do Local Colleges Require Gym Credits?

According to a recent study by Oregon State University, the number of colleges and universities that require physical education classes is at 39 percent, a historic low.

The study looked at data from 354 randomly selected four-year universities and colleges, beginning in the 1920s when 97 percent of institutions required physical education classes.

"Brain scans have shown that physical activity improves the area of the brain involved with high-level decision making,” said Brad Cardinal, lead author of the study. “In addition, we know employers often are concerned about employee health, in part because physically active employees attend work more and tend to perform better."

Do Philadelphia Colleges Require PE?

Chestnut Hill College requires all first year undergraduate students to complete two semesters of physical education classes and to pass a swim test. 

Bryn Mawr College requires undergraduates to complete eight credits of physical education, pass a swim proficiency test, and take a wellness seminar.

While the majority of Philadelphia area schools encourage their students to participate in sports and the many physical education electives they offer, they are not required for graduation. 

Villanova University, Drexel University, Neumann University, Rosemont College, and Saint Joseph's University are among the area institutions that do not have any physical education requirements. 

Do you think physical education classes should be a graduation requirement? Does your alma mater require PE? Let Patch know your thoughts in the comments below.