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Why Earn a Physical Education Degree?

A physical education degree demonstrates that an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to educate others in the proper methods for remaining physically fit. The methods employed cover a broad range of topics, from exercise, to nutrition, to lifestyle and habit. Individuals studying a physical education program will learn to work with individuals and students to promote good health and exercise habits, and as such will encounter topics in their studies to reflect both the teaching and physical aspects of the work performed. Effective instructors will find methods to incorporate education and health into fun activities through insights offered by courses dealing with behavior and psychology.   Additionally, physical education instructors will be educated in the treatment of injuries as well as how to educate students and clients to properly avoid such injuries through preventative measures. Students pursuing a physical education major will obtain a bachelor's degree, with higher level degrees available in related fields of study.

 

Courses in physical education may include:

  • Teaching Methodology
  • Anatomy
  • Nutrition
  • Kinesiology
  • Psychology
  • Organized Sports

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$58,030

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

36.11%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

961,900

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Physical Education Degree

Wheelock College of Education & Human Development at Boston University offers Physical Education & Coaching degree programs.   First is the EdM in Physical Education (Licensure and Non-Licensure Tracks), this is a graduate program that attracts candidates who are interested in pursuing licensure to teach physical education as well as to candidates who are already licensed, and those who do not wish to be licensed but is interested in Physical Education. Second is the EdD in Curriculum & Teaching, this is a doctoral program that provides a thorough understanding of key areas necessary to professional leadership in education. Last is Certificate in Physical Education (Pre-K-8 or 5-12), designed for qualified post-baccalaureate students that are interested in receiving Initial Licensure as a Teacher Education. 

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Pepperdine University is offering Physical Education degree programs for qualified students seeking to learn more about the importance of a teaching others about physical edudation benefits.  Graduates of this program learned how to engage and support all of their students. They are trained to create and maintain effective environments for student learning. They can demonstrate plan instruction as well as design learning experiences for all students. They understand the importance of assessing student learning while they strive to develop faith-informed, service oriented professional educators. 

Acceptance Rate

31.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The University of Texas at Austin is one of the only twenty institutions in the nation that offers doctoral degree plans in Physical Education Teacher Education. They offer MA (Report or Thesis) and M.Ed. (Coursework or with K-12 Teacher Certification), which are designed to empirically contribute to contemporary education and physical activity settings. As a result, students who are enrolled in these degree plans experience highly interactive coursework. Students who completed one of these programs met excellent opportunities for job placement in academia, public sector, and research institutions. 

Acceptance Rate

31.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Denison University offers an academic program in Health, Exercise, and Sport Studies. It is a flexible major designed to give students the knowledge and skills required to thrive in a variety of careers in health, exercise and sport studies. A major powered by exceptional faculty, real world experiences, a culture of mentorship and close proximity to Columbus. Aside from that, they also have a variety of Physical education Activities that can be checked here. 

Acceptance Rate

29.39

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The Physical Education major is an academic unit in the Division of Social Sciences of the College of Letters and Science at the University of California – Davis. Here, activities and lecture classes at the lower division, upper division as well as at the professional level is provided. Students are taught by an expert faculty including varsity coaches. The purpose of activities classes is to provide students an enjoyable format where they can acquire and advance skills in specific physical activities and sports. 

Acceptance Rate

38.87

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Baptist Bible College and Seminary offers a program for Bachelor of Science in PhysEd and Elementary Education.   This is a 139-hour degree program designed to prepare men and women for teaching children from grades 1-6. Students in this program will be introduced to basic biblical understanding and will address social, cognitive, and academic skills that develop in children through active communication, practical experience, unique strategies and educational concepts. Completion of this program leads to Missouri certification to teach from grades 1-6. 

Acceptance Rate

40.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The BS in Physical Education program offered at the University of Maryland – College Park is suspended. But they do have a Physical Education Master’s Certification (k-12) Program. This intensive graduate-level teacher preparation program can be completed in as few as 13 months. The program is the result of the collaborative effort of the Department of Kinesiology in the School of Public health and the College of Education. Graduates of this program will be given a Master’s Degree and a Maryland Specialist Certification in K-12 Physical Education. 

Acceptance Rate

44.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

A BS degree in Health and Physical Education (PreK-12) is available at Syracuse University. This program is structured to prepare graduates to help the youth develop their motor skills, truly understand games, and build lifelong commitment to physical activity and personal health. Their BS in Health and Physical Education meets the academic requirements for dual New York State initial teacher certification in Health Education as well as in Physical Education. Moreover, their program for BS in Physical Education meets the academic requirements for New York initial teacher certification in Physical Education only. 

Acceptance Rate

44.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Stony Brook University is known to offer great education programs. Aside from having a beautiful campus, they also have beautiful people who show sincere understanding and consideration to students. They have built an indoor facility in their huge campus which is much appreciated by their students especially during bad weather. There is no doubt then, why excellent students are attracted to Stony Brook University’s Physical Education degree program. 

Acceptance Rate

44.15

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

A degree in Physical Education is offered at Baylor University. Completion of this program will lead to a degree that satisfies the requirements for a Texas Teacher Certificate. Students here are taught how to teach grades K-12 with an emphasis in Coaching in a private or public setting. This program instills the role of deep commitment to young people to successful teaching and coaching. 

Acceptance Rate

45.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

You can make tomorrow’s generation healthier while strengthening your career options with the help of the Physical Education degree that Texas Christian University provides. What makes them unique is that their teacher-scholar philosophy means that their professors immerse themselves in research and oftentimes with the involvement of undergraduate and graduate students. And because the teachers here are involved scholars, every student benefits. The opportunity to learn alongside the professors on field studies that are generously given to students is also something that sets them apart. 

Acceptance Rate

47.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The College of New Jersey is offering a PE Teacher degree for qualified students.  This program teaches how to give kids a head start on a healthy life by being a physical education teacher. It meets all state requirements and integrates exercise science curriculum and science-based health with a teacher preparation program that gives emphasis on the latest knowledge and best practices in physical development for youth. Additionally, this option also provides a solid foundation for many other careers in school and professional settings. 

Acceptance Rate

49.28

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

College of the Ozarks offers a Major in Physical Education is coupled with Health and Recreation degree pathways.  This 4-year program is designed to help students acquire knowledge and understanding of content within a chosen physical education departmental major. It fosters appreciation of the physical manifestation of movement within how God designed our body as a form of creative expression. This department provides degree programs for students who wish to teach in secondary or elementary physical education. 

Acceptance Rate

10.26

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The College of Agriculture, Health and Natural resources at the University of Connecticut established the Department of Kinesiology. This Department is structured to promote and optimize health, wellness and performance through community engagement, service, research, and teaching excellence. They are known to provide an interdisciplinary approach in training the next generation of exercise and healthcare professionals through programs in exercise science, exercise prescription, physical therapy, and athletic training. They take much pride in the Doctoral program in Exercise Science that they offer because it is nationally ranked among the top 10 programs by the National Academy of Kinesiology. 

Acceptance Rate

49.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

A degree program for Kinesiology and Rehabilitative Sciences is available at the University of Tulsa. It consists of athletic training and exercise and sport science programs. In each program, they have provided laboratory space for experiential learning activities. Students here are also expected to be engaged in research studies with faculty in areas ranging from concussion, biomechanics and sports performance. 

Acceptance Rate

35.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

A Master of Education degree that provides intermediate-level graduate training is offered at the University of Washington – Seattle Campus. This program will enhance the professional knowledge of students and prepare them for further graduate study. Each student in the program will have the opportunity to work closely with a faculty advisor, they will take a personalized course of study that culminates in a major project. Through the valuable mentoring and networking that they provide, graduates of this program were able to pursue careers in education administration and among other options. 

Acceptance Rate

51.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

An ElementaryTeacher Physical Education degree is available at Ohio State University. This is a one-year program that has a program-wide focus on issues of academic excellence and equity. They also offer a Secondary Teacher Education Program which prepares students to address adolescent-specific issues and to help the youth make the transition into young adulthood. In this program, students will earn a Master in Teaching degree, with a residency teacher certificate for middle or high school teaching in sciences, language arts, mathematics, world languages, and social studies. 

Acceptance Rate

53.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

The Bachelor of Science in Physical Education at the University of South Florida includes the study of physical skill development, kinesiology, coaching, curriculum development and assessment. Students also learn about the administration of physical activity programs. This program is indeed designed to prepare aspiring educators to teach about the significance of health and physical fitness. Students here progress through the program as part of a cohort which allows them to join a community of peers that share passion and enthusiasm for the profession. 

Acceptance Rate

47.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

University of Central Florida is offering an Undergraduate degree in Physical Education. The Teacher Education BS – Physical education program that they provide is designed to offer students the option of two tracks which is Education and Lifelong Learning. The education Track is suited for students who are interested in opportunities for employment with formal, K-12 schools which require certification. The Lifelong Learning track is for those students that are seeking opportunities for employment outside formal, K-12 schools that don’t require certification. 

Acceptance Rate

44.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

30:1

The Health and Human Performance department at Berea College is offering a program for Physical Education Teachers. In this program, teachers are acting as facilitators or coaches and use interactive discussions as well as a hands-on approach to help students learn and apply concepts. In this 4-year program, students will be in charge of teaching health or PE classes most of the time, during the day. Students will have the choice to take coaching as another duty to take. 

Acceptance Rate

30.26

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

The Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation at the University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh Campus offers the Bachelor of Science in Education with a major in Physical Education. The unique feature of a Physical education major is the chance to complete a minor or certificate. Minors includes dance, recreation, coaching, hospitality management, and exercise science. Those who choose to earn a major in Physical Education should complete courses in the theory and practice of physical education. 

Acceptance Rate

56.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

A Physical Education Teacher Education degree program is offered at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. One of its goals is to help students successfully describe and apply common content knowledge for teaching preK-12 physical education. It also imparts deeper understanding of Physiological and biomechanical concepts that are related to skillful movement and fitness. Students in this program will also learn how to apply motor development theory and principles which have relevance to the fundamental motor skills and physical activity. 

Acceptance Rate

56.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

The goal of the Physical Education Department at SUNY College at Cortland is to prepare physical educators who will make a positive change in their communities and in the lives of their students. This Department provides an outstanding faculty and a wide range of study options which is one of the reasons that made them one of the best and most highly regarded in the country. They have appropriate programs for those who wish to become a coach, a physical education teacher, or both. The major has courses that encompasses effective teaching and a curriculum planning along with a broad spectrum of sports and fitness activities.  Additionally, they also have Graduate programs available. (M.S.Ed. in Physical Education, M.S.T. in Physical Education, M.S.Ed. in Physical education Leadership) 

Acceptance Rate

46.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Austin College is offering a top Physical Education degree. It is designed to equip students with the academic knowledge and practical experience required to develop a scientific understanding of exercise and sports. Students here are trained so they’ll excel in teaching/coaching or in any health-related professions. This program is also designed to give stress to the importance of a healthy lifestyle and how it must be an integral part of the overall education experience. 

Acceptance Rate

51.28

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

An Associate of Science degree in Health and Physical Education is offered at Howard University. This program gives emphasis to the study of the research and theory of psychology of cognition, learning, and motivation. These factors have great impact in learning and in application of learning strategies. Students will then use assessment instruments to help them identify their personal strengths and weaknesses as strategic learners. 

Acceptance Rate

36.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Employment Opportunities in Physical Education

An individual graduating with a physical education degree is prepared to work as a gym teacher, personal instructor, or coach. With more experience, opportunities in athletic management or professional sports can arise. Some individuals may pursue post-graduate degrees in occupational or physical therapy. The growth for physical education professions as a whole is expected to increase over the next decade as demand for personal fitness and among the developing and aging population increases. The increased interest in personal health as well as a growing concern regarding overweight youths will place a greater importance on physical education in school and the maintenance of good health and exercise during adulthood.

Key Skills of a Physical Education Teacher

A physical education instructor must be patient, observant, considerate and understanding. Individuals can be sensitive about fitness, particularly those with weight issues, and it is the role of the teacher, trainer or coach to maintain a professional and encouraging atmosphere. Physical education instructors work with a variety of individuals depending on their position, and will cater the regiment offered to meet the needs of their clients, students, or group. An important part of physical education is identifying the needs of individuals and offering support and instruction in promotion of good health while keeping factors such a self esteem in mind. In addition, physical education instructors should be ready to assist immediately if a student or client is harmed during the course of a workout. This is especially true when working with children, where immediate assistance is required.

Career Outlook in Physical Education

The average salary for a physical education degree holder will vary based on the job, position and experience. The median wage for P.E teachers is approximately $44,000 per year, $56,000 for personal trainers and $32,000 for coaches. Salaries tend to be higher in populated areas, particularly in urban centers that have a higher density of potential students or customers. Additionally, experienced individuals will earn more, either through annual raises in salary or through promotion. Individuals who pursue a graduate level education may also receive a higher starting income.

Those interested in a physical education degree may also be interested inphysical therapy,early childhood education, andoccupational therapy. For more information about a career in teaching, check out The Single Most Comprehensive Guide to a Teaching Career post on our blog. Organizations such as ShapeAmerica work hard to provide education and motivation for individuals outside academia.

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