Exercise, sport and health sciences | Physical education teacher certification emphasis
Bachelor of Science
Shape the future of active schools
In a world where screens compete for kids’ attention, schools need leaders who can inspire movement and make physical activity fun again.
Our program prepares you to become a certified K-12 physical education teacher and a champion for active schools. You’ll go beyond the gym, learning how to design and deliver engaging lessons that build lifelong fitness habits. You’ll also explore Whole-of-School Physical Activity programming — strategies that get students, teachers, and even families moving before, during and after school.
Through hands-on courses and real-world teaching experiences, you’ll:
- Learn to teach games, sports, and activities that make fitness exciting
- Promote health and wellness across the entire school community
- Gain the skills to evaluate, plan, and lead programs that get kids moving — not just in PE, but all day long
- Elevate your coaching
Join us and be part of the next generation of educators who make movement a priority for every student.
Why choose U of I for your physical education degree?
- Our graduates experience a 95% hiring rate
- Receive clinical experiences at elementary, middle and high school levels prior to your student teaching internships
- Our students engage in Experiential Learning in six courses prior to their student teaching internship
- Our physical education program is accredited by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation)
Overview
Related Topics
Shape the future of fitness
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Make a real impact: Help kids of all ages get active and build lifelong healthy habits.
- Turn your passion into purpose: Share your love of sports, fitness, and movement.
- Lead by example: Teach students — and entire school communities — how to live active, healthy lives through whole-of-school physical activity programs.
- Build a stable career: Enjoy strong job security and opportunities to grow as a professional.
- Love your work-life balance: Work in a fun, active environment with summers off.
If this physical education certification program sounds right for you, learn more about the curriculum.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,600 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Elementary School Teachers
$81,711 - Coaches and Scouts
$46,367 - Middle School Teachers
$82,257 - Adapted Physical Education Specialists
$74,290 - Secondary School Teachers
$78,774
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that student can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our scholarships website.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning opportunities
You can learn, play and work on a residential campus. We offer unique practicums at the elementary, middle and high school levels before you start your 120-hour internship/student teaching. Students also work specifically with individuals with disabilities.
You will develop your leadership and collaborative skills and enhance physical activity in schools and in the community. Working with school administrators, you’ll deliver workshops for classroom teachers and provide organized activity before school and during recess. You will also collaborate with City of Moscow officials to help deliver Safe Routes to School.
Internships
All students must complete a student teaching internship before completing your degree.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.