Physical education
Master of Education
Help others become fit and active
In an era where exercise and outdoor play is often trumped by video games and screen time, physical education in our schools has never been more important.
This program prepares you to become a certified K-12 physical education teacher. You will learn to improve the fitness and health of students, as well as faculty and staff, through games, sports and other physical activities. Courses explore the teaching and evaluation of physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
Physical education M.Ed. highlights:
- Program can be completed in one year.
- Two program options
- online for certified physical education teachers
- on-campus master's plus initial teacher certification
- Students can enter fall, spring or summer semester.
- Students are involved in problem-based research addressing physical activity pedagogy in their setting.
Overview
Advanced physical education
Degree fit
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy physical activity and sports.
- Lead a healthy lifestyle.
- Work well with children of all ages.
- Are patient and creative.
- Have strong leadership skills.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,706 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Postsecondary Specialized Health Teachers • Postsecondary Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers
$48,689 - Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors
$30,197 - Coaches and Scouts
$31,003 - Adapted Physical Education Specialists
$54,975 - Athletic Trainers
$38,916
* 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.
For information on FAFSA deadlines, financial aid types and eligibility requirements, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead—estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Graduate funding opportunities
Graduate students have funding opportunities specific to Movement Sciences programs in form of teaching assistantships.
Learn more about teaching assistantships within the Department of Movement Sciences.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
With research opportunities embedded within the K-12 classroom experiences, graduate students in Master of Education in physical education have extensive opportunities to conduct intensive research and to learn hands-on and teach within the University of Idaho community.
Application information
Applicants for the M.Ed. in physical education must meet the admission requirements below:
- Education level: Bachelor's
- GPA: 3.0
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS: 79/6.5
- Number of references: 3
- Other requirements: Program interview
Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.
Note: The one-year online Physical Education Pedagogy option is only available for certified teachers.
Due to the nature of this program, immigration regulations prohibit students requiring an F-1 or J-1 visa admission to this program. Other visa categories may be eligible to study in the U.S.
Contact the International Programs Office for rules governing enrollment while in the U.S. prior to application submission.