Physical Education Teachers

High School

In addition to taking physical education and participating in as many sports as possible, take college preparatory classes, including mathematics, science, and psychology. You should also take speech, English, and foreign language courses to develop your communication skills.

Postsecondary Training

You will need to earn a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a major such as physical education or sports and exercise science to work as a physical education teacher. Typical classes for this major include exercise physiology, kinesiology, health and wellness, first aid/cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), sports psychology, teaching physical education/health, and activity courses that teach the fundamentals of specific sports such as golf, basketball, tennis, and track. An advanced degree is usually required to teach physical education at the college level.

Schools throughout the United States offer accredited teacher education programs. Most of these programs are designed to meet the certificate requirements for the state in which they are located. Some states may require that you pass a test before being admitted to an educational program. You may choose to major in your subject area while taking required education courses, or you may major in secondary education with a concentration in your subject area. You will probably have advisers (both in education and in your chosen specialty) to help you select courses.

In addition to a degree, a training period of student teaching in an actual physical education environment is usually required. Students are placed in schools to work with full-time teachers. During this period, undergraduate students observe the ways in which lessons are presented and the gym or fitness center is managed. Students also learn how to keep records of such details as attendance and grades and get actual experience in handling the class, both under supervision and alone.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer undergraduate and graduate certificate programs in pedagogy (the method and practice of teaching), physical education, exercise science, nutrition, and related fields. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Continuing education (CE) seminars, webinars, and other learning opportunities are provided by professional associations, colleges and universities, and for-profit online learning platforms. For example, the Society of Health and Physical Educators offers free online courses (such as Essential Components of Physical Education and Roadmap to Adapted Physical Education), as well as feed-based courses and workshops. The American School Health Association also offers CE opportunities.