Become a Pe Teacher
Deciding to become a PE teacher (Physical Education teacher) combines a passion for athletic fitness, kinesiology, and sports pedagogy with the rewarding mission of shaping lifelong health habits in children and adolescents. From elementary movement fundamentals and cooperative games to high school strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, and team sports coaching, physical education educators inspire the next generation to embrace active, healthy lifestyles.
Educational Pathways: Degrees in Kinesiology and Physical Education
The educational foundation for a career as a public school physical education teacher begins with earning a Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university. Aspiring teachers typically major in Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE), Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Movement Science.
Rigorous collegiate coursework balances biomedical sciences with pedagogical instructional design. Students master human anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, motor development, exercise physiology, adaptive physical education for students with disabilities, and curriculum planning. Completing a degree approved by your state's Department of Education ensures you meet all foundational teacher licensure prerequisites.
Compare academic degree pathways, core coursework, and certification readiness:
| Degree Program | Curricular Focus | Clinical Fieldwork Requirement | Licensure Alignment | Typical Completion Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.S. in Physical Education (PETE) | K-12 Sports pedagogy & curriculum design | Student teaching semester (12-16 wks) | Direct track to state initial teaching license | 4 Academic Years |
| B.S. in Kinesiology / Exercise Science | Exercise physiology, biomechanics, rehab | Clinical internships in fitness/rehab | Requires post-grad teaching certificate (MAT) | 4 Years + 1 Year Post-Bac |
| Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) | Advanced pedagogy & instructional research | Year-long graduate teaching residency | Initial licensure for career changers | 1 to 2 Graduate Years |
| Alternative Route Certification | Accelerated night classes & mentorship | Immediate full-time classroom teaching | Provisional license converted to standard | 1 to 2 Years while teaching |
Review the core academic disciplines studied during a Physical Education teacher preparation program:
State Certification, Praxis Exams, and Student Teaching
Graduating with a degree is the first milestone; obtaining state teacher certification is what legally qualifies you to teach in public school districts. Most state licensing boards require passing standardized teacher licensure examinations, predominantly the Praxis Core Academic Skills test (reading, writing, math) and the Praxis II Subject Assessment in Physical Education: Content Knowledge (Exam 5091).
Fieldwork experience is equally critical. Teacher candidates must complete a full semester of supervised student teaching in both elementary and secondary school placements under the mentorship of veteran cooperating PE teachers. Candidates must also obtain professional CPR, First Aid, and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certifications before entering the gym.
Examine teacher licensing requirements, standardized tests, and credentialing milestones:
| Licensing Milestone | Required Examination / Assessment | Passing Benchmark | Clinical Requirement | Certification Scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Skills Verification | Praxis Core / CBEST / State Basic | State-mandated cut score | Admissions prerequisite to PETE major | Basic literacy & math competence |
| Subject Matter Competence | Praxis II PE Content Knowledge (5091) | Scaled score 150 to 160 (State varies) | Demonstrates mastery of motor skills & health | Endorsement on teaching certificate |
| Clinical Student Teaching | edTPA or state portfolio review | Formal lesson plan video evaluations | 500 to 600 Hours in elementary & high school | Prerequisite for full state license |
| Health & Safety Credentials | American Heart Association CPR/AED | Hands-on skills demonstration | Valid 2-year certification card | Mandatory for all coaching and PE staff |
| Background Screening | FBI & State Fingerprint Clearances | Zero disqualifying violent crimes | State Department of Education clearance | Mandatory child safety clearance |
Consult the certification testing parameters and clinical benchmarks detailed below:
Career Growth: Coaching Athletics and Salary Expectations
A significant career dimension for many physical education teachers is coaching interscholastic athletic teams. Many middle and high school PE positions actively favor candidates eager to coach football, basketball, track and field, volleyball, or soccer. Coaching varsity or junior varsity sports provides secondary stipend income ($2,500 to $8,000 per sport) while strengthening bonds with student athletes.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for public school teachers ranges between $60,000 and $65,000, with experienced teachers in competitive suburban districts earning $85,000 to $105,000+. Public school teachers enjoy robust pension retirements, comprehensive medical benefits, and summers off for personal wellness and professional development.
Becoming a PE teacher is a rewarding vocation that enriches young lives through active movement.
How to Become a Certified PE Teacher in 5 Steps
Follow these educational and credentialing steps to become a licensed physical education teacher.
Earn a Bachelor's Degree in PE
Complete an accredited Bachelor of Science in Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) or Kinesiology.
Complete Student Teaching
Complete a supervised semester of clinical student teaching split between elementary and high school gymnasiums.
Pass State Licensure Exams
Pass the Praxis Core and Praxis II Physical Education Content Knowledge (Exam 5091) tests required by your state.
Earn First Aid & CPR/AED Credentials
Obtain adult and pediatric CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications through the American Heart Association or Red Cross.
Apply for District Teaching Jobs
Submit your teaching portfolio, background clearances, and state license to school districts, highlighting athletic coaching willingness.
Frequently Asked Questions (8 Questions Answered)
Q1: What degree do you need to be a PE teacher?
You need at least a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or a related sports science field.
Q2: How long does it take to become a PE teacher?
It typically takes four years to complete a bachelor's degree and student teaching; career changers with existing degrees can finish an MAT program in 1 to 2 years.
Q3: Do PE teachers have to coach sports?
Coaching is not universally required, but school hiring committees heavily favor candidates willing to coach after-school varsity or JV athletic teams.
Q4: What exams are required to teach physical education?
Most states require the Praxis Core basic skills test and the Praxis II Subject Assessment in Physical Education: Content Knowledge (Exam 5091).
Q5: How much do PE teachers make per year?
The national median salary for public school PE teachers ranges from $58,000 to $65,000, with senior educators in top districts earning over $90,000.
Q6: Can you become a PE teacher without a PE degree?
Yes, individuals with degrees in other fields can complete an alternative teacher certification program or Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Physical Education.
Q7: What is adaptive physical education?
Adaptive physical education is specialized instruction tailored to accommodate students with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities.
Q8: Are PE teachers in high demand?
Demand is steady nationwide, with high demand in urban and rural school districts and for candidates dual-certified in Health Education and athletic coaching.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding become a pe teacher provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.