Physical education or “gym class” is often viewed as the fun part of school for students, so PE teachers often enjoy their enthusiasm. For people who like to be active, be outside and dress comfortably every day, being a physical education teacher checks a number of boxes. As a teacher in the physical education department, you’ll love how your students develop lifelong athletic skills in a wide range of activities such as soccer, basketball, or swimming.
The undergraduate Physical Education teacher certification program will prepare you to teach physical education in a P-12 setting. Candidates must meet AUM and Alabama Department of Education teacher certification requirements. An internship is required.
Physical education teachers at any grade level know the importance of the mind-body connection. By keeping students moving, they can:
Help them improve their academic results
Instill better eating habits
Reduce their stress and anxiety
Build confidence
Encourage a wellness lifestyle
The College of Education’s Kinesiology department houses the Physical Education program, as well as the Exercise Science program and the Sport Management/Leadership program. The highly qualified Kinesiology faculty is well-known for their work on cutting-edge research and grants, being American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) fellows, and holding ACSM and NSCA-CSCS certifications. Coursework is designed to meet the needs of students and prepare them to work in both school and non-school settings.
What you will know with a Kinesiology Degree with a Concentration in Physical Education from AUM
We Prepare You For Lifelong Learning
The best teachers are curious and develop a love of learning. Throughout your career, you’ll stay current with subject knowledge and changes in education—both informally and through professional development classes and conferences.
We Show You How To Give Back
When you are a teacher, you contribute to your community in a meaningful way. If you are driven by the desire to help those around you, being a teacher is an invaluable contribution.
We Believe In Hands-On Learning
You’ll get practical, hands-on experience through an internship under a local expert teacher, and via field experiences in local schools.
We Help You Share Your Optimism
A teacher should not be a “glass half empty” type of person. Teachers have to be resilient and diligent, and the reason is because the students’ futures depend on it. Optimism is a key element to becoming a successful teacher.
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Game Plan for Success
Your GPS is an academic tracker that provides a step-by-step guide to graduating on time.
You’ll learn in small class sizes and have access to your professors for a more personalized experience.
The AUM Exercise Science program is an educationally recognized program (ERP) by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) for its outstanding program leading to careers in athletic strength conditioning.
Minor in a subject such as Psychology or Communication to augment your professional expertise and versatility as an allied-health professional.
Apply to the University Honors Program, a diverse community of students who take classes together, work on community service projects, and travel the U.S. and abroad.
Check out our Career Discovery Board on this page to begin exploring your options. Contact us by phone or email so we can get you the answers you need.
Being a PE teacher can be a lot of fun! You will have the flexibility to hold classes inside or outdoors. Since you work directly with your students, you can connect with them in a meaningful way. Plus, you can promote inclusiveness, responsibility, cooperation and diversity.
Many PE teachers do double duty as coaches, which, for former athletes and sports fans, can be a great perk of the job. Some PE teachers can use their experience in the summer as coaches, athletic camp directors and recreation league referees.
Key skills and traits: Good athletic ability and knowledge of the human body. Good leadership and communication skills. Strong ability to motivate and inspire. Ability to remain calm, show empathy, think on your feet, and adapt to changing situations.
Degree Options
Is a Degree in Kinesiology with a Concentration in Physical Education right for me?
With this bachelor’s degree as your educational foundation, you have many career possibilities.
Career/Job Title
Entry-level Education
Job Growth 2020-2030
Annual Median Salary
High School Teacher
Bachelor’s degree
8% (As fast as average)
$62,870
Middle School Teacher
Bachelor’s degree
7% (As fast as average)
$60,810
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher
Bachelor’s degree
7% (As fast as average)
$60,660
Physical Therapist
Doctor of Physical Therapy degree
21% (Much faster than average)
$91,010
Exercise Physiologist
Bachelor’s degree
13% (As fast as average)
$50,280
Athletic Trainer
Bachelor’s degree
23% (As fast as average)
$49,860
Note: Salaries vary depending on several factors including your level of experience, education, training, demographics, and industry. Here is a sampling of the future job growth and salaries according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Learn More
Quick Facts
College of Education
At the AUM College of Education, you will have powerful learning experiences, working side by side with professors who have real-world experience.
To help you pay for college, you might qualify for one of our scholarships.
Official Name of the Physical Education Degree
Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a Concentration in Physical Education
Modality
This degree requires students to meet on campus. Students in these courses enroll in a program to connect in a campus setting and to collaborate using a variety of technological and educational tools. Professors play an inspirational role in building relationships among teams and individuals in this setting. The criteria for many programs can only be met with In-Class coursework. Be sure to check with your advisor to understand the best route to take.
In-Class
Physical Education
Courses Include
To complete this degree concentration, you will need to complete courses in the university core, education, and electives. Contact the College of Education for a current listing of courses required to complete this program.
The course listings below are only a few of the classes this track requires. For a full review of this program in detail, please see our official online catalog AND consult with an academic advisor.
Course Number
Course Name
What you will know…
PHED 1003
Introduction to Martial Arts
Learn the basic skills of Tae Kwon Do, Hap Kido, and Judo.
PHED 1305
Introduction to Disc Sports
You’ll help a new generation of athletes by knowing the basics of ultimate frisbee and disc golf.
PHED 1823
Exercise and Weight Control
Learn about physical activity as it relates to nutrition, health and changes in body composition.
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