Earning a physical education degree can open the door to a rewarding career in teaching and coaching. With the right accredited program, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful physical education teacher.
In this article, we will discuss the best accredited online and campus physical education degrees and the curriculum you can expect to find in each program.
Overview of Physical Education Programs
With the range of options available, from campus-based to fully online degrees, physical education programs offer an opportunity for prospective teachers to gain the skills and knowledge needed to become certified physical education teachers.
From the University of Vermont’s PreK-12 program, to West Virginia University’s Bachelor of Science degree, to George Mason University’s master’s program, students have a variety of options. Indiana Wesleyan University and SUNY Cortland also offer physical education programs, with concentrations in coaching and adapted physical education. Top-ranked schools like the University of Michigan and Emory University offer on-campus physical education degrees, while Ohio State University, Purdue University, and the University of Texas at San Antonio offer best value options.
Regardless of the program chosen, physical education degrees provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful physical education teacher.
Program Options for Physical Education Teachers
With an array of physical education programs available, prospective teachers can choose from campus-based and fully online degrees to gain the skills and knowledge needed for certification. From the University of Vermont to George Mason University, students can choose from a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, and minors in physical education.
Moreover, there are programs designed for those with a Bachelor’s degree and at least one year of experience in the field. Prospective teachers can find accredited programs at:
- University of Michigan Ann Arbor (#23; on campus)
- Emory University (#30; on campus)
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (#43; on campus)
These and other programs offer a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge in physical education, as well as mentoring and supervising opportunities in the field.
Curriculum for a Physical Education Degree Program
A typical physical education degree program curriculum includes courses such as Adapted Physical Education, Anatomy and Physiology of Physical Education, Assessment in Physical Education, and Concepts of Coaching and Officiating. Other topics may include motor learning, exercise physiology, nutrition, and sport psychology.
Students may also take electives such as sport management, health promotion, and leadership in physical education. Depending on the institution, the program may also include a practicum or internship experience.
Physical education degree programs typically involve a combination of theoretical and practical instruction, such as lectures, laboratory work, and field experiences. Through these experiences, students learn how to create, implement, and evaluate physical education programs.
Additionally, physical education programs may also provide students with the opportunity to gain experience and insight into the teaching profession.
Top-Ranked Physical Education Degree Programs
Ranked among the best physical education degree programs in the nation are the University of Michigan Ann Arbor (#23; on campus), Emory University (#30; on campus), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (#43; on campus), University of Texas Austin (#51; on campus), and William & Mary (#56; on campus).
These top-ranked programs offer students a variety of learning opportunities, such as:
- Adapted Physical Education
- Anatomy and Physiology of Physical Education
- Assessment in Physical Education
These programs are designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful physical education teachers.
With an increasing demand for physical education professionals, these programs are sure to provide students with the best opportunity to succeed.
Best Value Schools With On-Campus Physical Education Programs
Frequently, Ohio State University’s College of Education and Human Ecology, Purdue University, University of Texas at San Antonio, University of Vermont, and [One more school] offer some of the best value on-campus physical education programs.
These schools provide comprehensive education programs that prepare students for careers in physical education and physical fitness. Programs may include courses in anatomy and physiology, adapted physical education, assessment and instruction, coaching and officiating, and research methods.
Students also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through internships and field experiences. Graduates are qualified to pursue a variety of career paths in physical education, health and wellness, and recreation.
Best Value Schools With Online Physical Education Programs
For those seeking to pursue a degree in physical education in a flexible, online format, there are a number of schools offering excellent value programs.
These include:
- Ohio State University’s College of Education and Human Ecology
- Purdue University
- University of Texas at San Antonio
Students can find accredited programs from top-ranked universities such as the University of Michigan, Emory University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Other value schools offering online physical education degrees include SUNY Cortland, Indiana Wesleyan University, and George Mason University.
These programs offer students access to courses on topics such as anatomy and physiology of physical education, assessment in physical education, and coaching and officiating.
Earning a degree in physical education online can be an excellent way to gain the qualifications needed to become a physical education teacher.
Benefits of Earning a Physical Education Degree
Earning a physical education degree can open the door to a wide range of opportunities, both on and off the field. With a degree in physical education, graduates can pursue teaching positions in PreK-12 schools, coach teams, and even manage sports facilities. Additionally, physical education degrees can provide a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing careers in allied health, exercise science, and sports management.
A physical education degree can also equip students with a variety of skills, such as communication, problem solving, and critical thinking. This can be a great asset in any career, and it can help graduates stand out in the job market. Furthermore, physical education degrees can provide students with an understanding of health and nutrition, as well as an appreciation for the importance of physical activity.
Earning a physical education degree can be a great way to prepare for a career in the field. With accredited online and campus degree programs available, students have the ability to gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a variety of roles within the field.
Job Opportunities for Physical Education Graduates
Graduates with physical education degrees can pursue a variety of rewarding job opportunities, such as teaching, coaching, and sports facility management. Physical education graduates can also find work with fitness centers, corporate wellness programs, and physical therapy practices.
Here are three options available to physical education graduates:
-
Teaching – Physical education teachers work with students of all ages to develop and teach physical activity and health skills.
-
Coaching – Coaches work with teams in a variety of sports and lead athletes through practice and competition.
-
Sports Management – Sports facility directors manage the staff, budgets, and operations of sports facilities.
The possibilities for physical education graduates are vast, and they can use their skills and education to make a positive impact on the lives of people in their local communities.
Licensure Requirements for Physical Education Teachers
Physical education teachers must fulfill certain licensure requirements in order to practice professionally and legally. Requirements vary by state, but typically include completing a physical education program accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Additionally, teachers must pass a state-administered certification test and a background check. Some states may also require additional courses beyond the physical education program.
Teachers may also have to meet ongoing training requirements for licensure renewal. This could include taking continuing education courses, as well as meeting certain performance expectations. Additionally, teachers may need to complete a certain number of hours of supervised teaching experience.
It is important to check with the state’s department of education for the most up-to-date requirements for a physical education teaching license. There are also organizations that provide resources to help teachers understand licensure requirements and gain the necessary experience.
Professional Organizations for Physical Education Specialists
Joining a professional organization can be a great way for physical education specialists to stay up to date on the latest developments in the field. Members of these organizations often have access to professional development opportunities, networking events, and research opportunities.
Here are three of the best professional organizations for physical education specialists:
-
National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE): A professional membership organization for physical education teachers, coaches, and administrators.
-
American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD): An interdisciplinary organization that promotes physical education, health, recreation, dance, and sport.
-
National Association for Kinesiology and Physical Education in Higher Education (NAKPEHE): An organization dedicated to the advancement of kinesiology and physical education in higher education.
Conclusion
Physical education degree programs provide a comprehensive curriculum to prepare individuals to become certified physical education teachers. These programs offer accredited online and campus options, with the opportunity to specialize in a certain area.
Physical education degrees provide many benefits, such as job opportunities, licensure requirements, and professional organizations. Graduates of physical education degree programs are well prepared to pursue a successful career in physical education.
