In 1858, the State Normal School at Albany authorized the development of physical training of students. The school deemed it necessary to offer physical education classes because of a concern that students were so focused on scholarship that they often neglected their physical health. The school also recognized the need for teachers capable in instruction of physical training in large towns and cities. In 1890, the New York Normal College required Physical Culture for all English, Classical, Kindergarten, and Provisional majors and this physical education requirement remained until 1973. The Department of Physical Training divided the curriculum between men and women. In response to a growing shortage of physical education teachers in high schools, the 1917-1918 school year saw the creation of a major in Physical Education for students wishing to become supervisors or high school teachers of physical education. The major was cancelled in 1920 when the crisis passed. The 1920-1921 school year saw Physical Education changed to Physical Education and Hygiene. From 1929 until 1947, the Hygiene and Physical Education Department remained concerned with students' physical condition and fostering athletic activity. In 1951, a board consisting of faculty and students was created to develop athletic policy for the college, recommend athletic tax levy, and supervise both policy and budget. The board was primarily responsible for inter-collegiate athletics. In 1964-1965 the State University of New York at Albany created the Department of Physical Education and Safety. The Intercollegiate Athletic program and College Intramural and Recreation programs were facilitated through this department. The 1996-97 academic year was the final year for classes given by the Department of Physical Education, but the department remains responsible for university athletics and recreation.
From the description of Department of Physical Education, Athletics, and Recreation records, 1950-1977. (University at Albany). WorldCat record id: 122610310
