If you have an enduring love for sports, fitness, exercise, wellness, and coaching, and want to spend your career inspiring future generations to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle, a degree in Physical Education could be a great fit for you.

Types of Degrees

Physical Education students typically pursue an associate degree (2 years), bachelor's degree (4 years), or master's degree (6-7 years) prior to entering the workforce. In this field, a bachelor's degree as well as state licensure is typically required before you can become a public school Physical Education Teacher. Certifications are also available for those interested in becoming a Coach. A master's degree can lead to administrative or post-secondary teaching positions.

Admission Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with a strong academic background and extracurricular experience in sports, fitness, and/or coaching helping applicants obtain acceptance into their desired school. Each school has its own specific requirements, making it important for you to explore several options before settling on a particular school.

Career Opportunities After Earning A Physical Education Degree

The range of career opportunities available to someone with a degree in Physical Education include:

• Elementary, Middle, or High School Teacher
• Coach/Scout
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.

Post Graduate Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for High School teachers was $65,220 in 2023 ¹ while Coaches and Scouts earned a median salary of $45,910 in 2023. ²

Note that the average salary varies widely not only depending on career chosen, but on geographical location and employer. Conditions in your area may vary.

References

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Careers associated with these educational opportunities often require additional degrees and certifications not offered as part of the educational opportunities presented by this website.
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.