Program highlights

• 600 hours of direct teaching experience
• Initial K-12 Health and Physical Education Teacher Certification
• Courses offered in online, hybrid and in-person formats
• Complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 5 years with our AGRADE option
• Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

What will you learn in the health and physical education major

In this program, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of health-related concepts, physical education principles and teaching methodologies. Our curriculum will prepare you to develop curricula for health and physical education programs, implement developmentally appropriate instruction for diverse learners, and use instructional technology effectively.

By graduation, you’ll have a solid grasp of anatomy and physiology, physical education pedagogy, exercise science, classroom management, motor learning and development, physical activity in pediatric disabilities, and much more.

Program curriculum

The physical education major requires a minimum of 120 credits, including major requirements, electives and the university’s General Education Program. Your advisor will work closely with you to design a course of study that meets your specific goals. For details, see the Health and Physical Education Advising Guide.

Review the B.S. in health and physical education teaching curriculum.

Bachelor's degree in health and physical education courses

Total credits for degree: 120

Excellent preparation for teacher certification

The bachelor’s degree in physical education includes 600 hours of direct teaching experience, preparing you to work successfully with the growing diversity of students in a variety of teaching environments.

Designed to meet the Model Core Teaching Standards defined by the Michigan Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (MI InTASC), the courses are specifically created with preparation for the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) in mind.

Fast-track your graduate study with the AGRADE program

Save time and money by enrolling in a master’s program while you’re still in college. As a junior or senior at Wayne State, you may qualify for the Accelerated Graduate Enrollment (AGRADE) program, which allows you to apply up to 16 credits to both degrees. We even offer scholarships for qualified participants.

As a health and physical education teaching major, your graduate program options are Community Health, Exercise and Sport Science, and Sports Administration.

• Learn more about AGRADE
• Apply for AGRADE

Careers with a physical education degree

As health and fitness continue to rise in both importance and popularity, a bachelor’s degree in physical education opens a wide range of career options in education, health promotion, coaching and related fields.

Physical education is embedded in school curricula, ensuring a steady demand for qualified teachers in this field. According to career website Zippia, jobs in physical education teaching are projected to grow 11% from 2018 to 2028.

Career options for graduates with a PE teacher degree include:

• K-12 health and physical education teacher
• Physical education department head 
• Adapted physical education specialist
• Athletic coach
• Wellness coordinator 
• Physical education program coordinator
• Community health advocate
• Fitness instructor or personal trainer

"In my practicum placements at WSU I learned how to teach a diversity of children, we experienced authentic community and school environments where faculty provided us with real time feedback and mentorship."  

Samantha Miller (Kearny) ('20)

Tuition and financial aid

At Wayne State University, we know the importance of accessible education. Our tuition and fees are lower than comparable degrees from other major research universities in Michigan, and we’re committed to flat-rate tuition. This system has been shown to help students graduate faster and with less debt.

You can also take advantage of our robust financial aid opportunities, including private scholarships. Try our net price calculator to estimate your costs and savings at WSU.

Admission requirements

You can apply to the physical education major directly from high school or from another institution of higher learning. Here’s how:

• Apply online through the Wayne State University application or the Common App
• Submit a $25 application fee 
• Submit your SAT or ACT score (optional) or complete the test-optional requirements
  • SAT: WSU code 1898
  • ACT: WSU code 2064
• Send your high school transcripts online or mail them to:

Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Wayne State University
P.O. Box 02759
Detroit, MI 48202

Application deadlines vary depending on which semester you plan to start classes.

• Fall enrollment: August 1
• Winter enrollment: December 1
• Spring/summer enrollment: April 1

Learn more about Wayne State's B.S. in health and physical education teaching

Ready to inspire the next generation and shape healthier communities? Apply today and choose the path that empowers you to make a difference!

• Want to find out more about health and physical education teaching at Wayne State? Request more information
• Eager to get started? Apply now
• Make sure you are on track for graduation Speak with an academic advisor

Professional Licensure Program Disclosure

The University has determined that the curriculum of the initial teacher certification and endorsement programs at Wayne State University in the College of Education, leading to a credential as a certified teacher, meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in all states. However, there may be specific state requirements beyond the reciprocity agreement.

Accreditation

CAEP_Accreditation

The College of Education educator preparation programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).  

Accreditation means that a program meets the standards set by the academic and professional community. It’s a seal of approval indicating that the program prepares new educators to teach effectively.