Physical Education (P.E.) Certification, Diploma and Certificate Programs
Learn about physical education teacher certification. Get information about bachelor's degrees and certifications in physical education, the required coursework and career opportunities.
Bachelor's Degrees in Physical Education
Prospective physical education (P.E.) teachers may earn a Bachelor of Science in Education or a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education to prepare for their teacher license or P.E. certification. These programs are designed for those who want to teach physical education within schools to students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Students learn how to use exercise, games and sports to build a solid, age-appropriate program for each grade level. Additionally, students gain experience within a classroom, where they teach and assist under a licensed P.E. teacher.
Education Prerequisites
Undergraduate programs usually require a high school diploma for admission. Some schools may require students to complete the general education courses with a satisfactory grade point average prior to being accepted into the education program.
Course Topics
The curricula of P.E. bachelor's degree programs includes coursework in both teaching methodologies and physical fitness activities. Topics covered in a program may include:
- Sport skills
- Resistance training
- First aid and safety
- P.E. teaching methods
- Curriculum design
- Kinesiology
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that national employment opportunities for all teachers are expected to increase 13% from 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). Despite this fact, the BLS also states there are enough qualified P.E. teachers. In March 2012, Payscale.com reported that most P.E. teachers earned between $23,742 and $61,194.
Continuing Education Information
The BLS indicates that all states require public school teachers to be licensed. In most states, a bachelor's degree in education is required, but there are alternative licensing options for those who earn a bachelor's degree in another subject. Teachers may also choose to advance their education by earning a master's degree in education. The BLS cites some states require teachers to earn a master's degree in order to maintain their license.
Post-Bachelorette Certificate in Physical Education
A post-bachelorette certificate program allows students to qualify for any special state requirements for licensing or to meet requirements for teaching certification. These programs are an option for individuals who have earned a bachelor's degree in an area outside education. Similar to bachelor's programs, most certificate programs are designed to prepare one to teach P.E. in grades K-12.
Education Prerequisites
To be admitted into a post-bachelorette certificate program, students need a bachelor's degree. Additionally, standardized test scores may be required. Some schools may also require a resume, letters of recommendation or prior coursework in kinesiology.
Course Topics
The curricula of P.E. certificate programs usually covers teaching methods, general education and physical education topics. Specific topics may include:
- Methods of teaching games
- Anatomy and physiology
- Adapted physical education
- Motor development
- P.E. evaluation methods
- Team sports
Certification Information
Teachers may seek professional certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). The NBPTS offers two physical education certifications, early adolescence through young adulthood and early and middle childhood. The NBPTS indicates that their certifications may help with career advancement and meeting continuing education standards (www.nbpts.org).
In order to apply for certification, applicants must meet education and experience requirements. Besides holding a bachelor's degree, the NBPTS states they must have at least three years of experience and be licensed. There are some exceptions to licensure.
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30 Popular Schools
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Masters degree applicants must have a Bachelors degree
- Doctorate degree applicants must have a Masters degree
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Doctorate
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- PhD in Education - Sports Management
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Master
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- MEd in Athletic Coaching
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- MEd in Sports Management
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Non-Degree
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- Education Specialist in Sports Management
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
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Master
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- MS in Sport Management
- MS in Sport Management: Athletic Administration Concentration
- MS Sport Management: Certificate in International Sport Management
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- International MBA in Athletic Administration
- International MBA in Sport Management
- MBA Certificate in International Sport Management
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- Bachelor
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
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Bachelor
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- BS in Sport Management
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- BS in Management - Sport Management
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- All programs require applicants to have graduated high school in 2008 or earlier
- Must be 22 years of age or older
School locations:
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- Master
- Bachelor
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must have either two or more years of college or active military status if you are under 24 years of age
School locations:
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
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- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must live within close proximity to school locations
- Must be graduated from high school by 2011
School locations:
- Arizona (1 campus)
- Florida (1 campus)
- Texas (1)
Classroom-Based Programs
- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate.
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Master
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- Master of Science in Education - Allied Health Teaching and Leadership
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Bachelor
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- Bachelor of Science - Sport Management
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- BS in Health Science
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