BS in Physical Education (PE) Degree

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Campus

Area of Study

Teaching

Program

BS in Physical Education (Licensure)

Current Education Level

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High School Graduation Year

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High School Name

Country

United States

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Overview

Discover Strategies To Motivate and Inspire Students

Pursue your passion for physical fitness and education with the Bachelor of Science in Physical Education (PE) degree at Grand Canyon University. Offered through a collaborative initiative between the College of Natural Sciences and the College of Education, this program is designed for aspiring teachers who are enthusiastic about sports, wellness and shaping young lives. As a physical education teacher, you’ll have the opportunity to serve as a powerful role model and motivator, helping preK-12 students make healthy choices, build confidence and reach their full potential.

Bachelor of Science in Physical Education

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

Offered By

College of Natural Sciences

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Prepare To Teach and Inspire Wellness Through Movement

GCU’s PE degree offers future educators the tools to promote lifelong wellness. This program helps develop compassionate educators through a faith-integrated curriculum and opportunities for hands-on teaching experience. As a physical education major, you can build core competencies that prepare you to create safe, positive learning environments while meeting the diverse needs of students with varying abilities.

This modern curriculum is aligned with Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC) principles. All coursework adheres to the national standards for Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) as established by SHAPE America, which is the national organization for physical educators.

Coursework

PE Degree Course Topics

The bachelor’s degree in physical education coursework is designed to prepare future educators to lead their classrooms with confidence and compassion. Each course blends theory and practical application for creating engaging physical education experiences.

Some of the topics you study include:

Human development and function

Fitness development and assessment

Techniques and best practices for safe movement

Physical education for students with disabilities

Instructional technology

Teaching methods for individual and team sports

Careers

Career Paths for Physical Education Degree Graduates

As a bachelor’s degree in physical education candidate, you can learn how to turn your passion for fitness and sports into a career with hopes of inspiring students. Graduates of the BS in Physical Education degree program may pursue job opportunities such as:

Middle school teachers, except special and career/technical education
Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education
Coaches and scouts
Exercise trainers and group fitness instructors

The Bachelor of Science in Physical Education degree program at GCU leads to initial teacher licensure. This major in physical education gives candidates the opportunity to pursue all necessary certifications required by the state in which they wish to teach. Check with your state to confirm if the program meets your state requirements for licensure.

66,200

Number of new jobs estimated to open for high school teachers from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Accreditation

Pursue Your Physical Education Degree From an Accredited University

GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. Additionally, the Bachelor of Science in Physical Education degree is programmatically accredited through the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re considering a physical education degree, we’ve gathered answers to your most frequently asked questions.

Is a physical education degree hard?

Can you be a PE teacher without a degree?

Is a physical education degree worth it?

This depends on your personal goals and interests. If you are someone who enjoys sports, health and wellness and physical challenges, then choosing to major in physical education may be the right choice for you. Great PE teachers are fascinated with kinesiology and learning about the connection between the physical and the psychological. If this sounds like you, you may find the BS in Physical Education degree worth your time and effort.

Why is physical education important?

Physical education is a powerful tool for helping children develop healthy habits that last into adulthood. As a physical education major, you will be taught how to help students foster both physical and emotional health through sports and group activities that teach teamwork, communication and resilience. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity in schools not only increases students’ activity levels but also improves their grades, test scores and ability to focus in class.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements32-40 credits

Major72 credits

Open Elective Credits8-14 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Required General Education Courses

HIS-144

4 Total Credits

Core Courses

PED-247

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing intensive course is designed to prepare future physical education teachers, fitness instructors, and recreational leaders in the skills necessary to teach physical education activities to groups. Included is the development of lesson plans and course goals/performance objectives that can be applied to the teaching of any skill or activity. Becoming aware of the place of physical education and exercise science globally and perspectives on human diversity in all areas of sport and physical activity is included.

BIO-155

3 Total Credits

BIO-155L

1 Total Credits

PED-263

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is intended to provide the student with the general technical and physical skill required to teach selected sports. Students learn how to plan and organize the team sports of basketball, softball, and volleyball, and the individual/dual activities of tennis, golf, and badminton for educational settings. Students work with a variety of age and skill levels and conduct classes while ensuring participants’ health and safety. Prerequisite: PED-247.

PED-251

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is intended to provide students with the general technical and physical skills required to teach selected sports and activities. Students learn how to plan and organize teaching activities for flag football, soccer, pickleball, golf, folk and square dancing, and rhythmic movements and tumbling. Students also learn how to conduct classes while ensuring participants’ health and safety, and work with a variety of age and skill levels. Prerequisite: PED-247.

SPD-208

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates are introduced to the educational needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities and their families, including the definitions, characteristics, prevalence, causes and educational approaches to these disabilities and disorders. Teacher candidates will identify preventative and responsive practices related to cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional patterns of learning and development for students with mild to moderate disabilities. Emphasis is placed on identifying appropriate times to differentiate, modify, or accommodate to support student learning. Teacher candidates also survey the special education process involving the application of various laws and regulations. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

PED-275

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This is an introductory course in teaching of fitness and wellness. This course provides a series of modules that encompass all of the important aspects of overall fitness and wellness by means of lecture, demonstration, and participation. Key components throughout involve instruction and application of the needs of the human body, nutritional principles and producing a personalized nutrition plan. A special emphasis is placed on instruction and practice opportunities in the theoretical and practical aspects of flexibility, aerobics, and weight training activities. Also included are assignments to create and implement lesson planning, teaching techniques, evaluation, and proficiency in fitness skills. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: PED-247.

EXS-340

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course is a study of the effects of exercise on the body. Topics include nutrition as the basis for physical activity; how energy is produced and utilized during physical activity; the energy delivery and vital functions of the respiratory, cardiovascular, muscular, and nervous systems during exercise; how these systems can be enhanced through training; the impact of ergogenic aids and environmental stress on performance; and the effect of exercise on body composition, weight control, aging, and disease prevention. The body's responses and adaptations to exercise at the systemic, as well as the subcellular level, are also discussed. Prerequisites: BIO-155 and BIO-155L, or BIO-201 and BIO-201L, or BIO-210 and BIO-210L. Co-Requisite: EXS-340L.

EXS-340L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This is a course of field and laboratory experiences designed to reinforce the basic principles learned in the lecture course. Skills of measurement and evaluation, including computerized methods employed to facilitate testing, are applied to physiological and systemic principles of exercise. Prerequisites: BIO-155 and BIO-155L, or BIO-201 and BIO-201L, or BIO-210 and BIO-210L. Co-Requisite: EXS-340.

EDU-330

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this writing-intensive course, teacher candidates will explore multicultural education by engaging in research, communication, and ethical decision-making, focusing on developing educators' skills in creating equitable and inclusive learning environments. Through analysis of evidence and virtuous practice, the course will examine the critical role of educators as advocates for all students, empowering participants to address disparities and promote equitable opportunities for academic success. With a specific focus on the principles of multicultural education, teacher candidates will be encouraged to reflect on the influence of their own worldviews and perceptions. Emphasizing the concept of imago Dei, which sees every individual as made in the image of God, this course aims to foster culturally responsive classrooms that welcome diversity in all forms. Teacher candidates will explore strategies to effectively bridge the gaps between various diversities and academic achievement, to foster human flourishing within the educational sphere. The course blends content with practical application, highlighting the educator's role as an advocate for all students and promoting equitable academic opportunities.

ESL-446N

3 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, teacher candidates examine the fundamentals of the legal, historical, and educational foundations of Structured English Immersion (SEI) and other instructional programs and approaches for teaching English learners. Theoretical principles of language acquisition and the role of culture in learning are examined. Methods of assessment are identified and analyzed. Teacher candidates identify strategies to promote English language development and improve student achievement as they plan, deliver, and evaluate standards-based instruction for English learners. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required.

PED-420

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course prepares students for teaching physical education to elementary grade students. The course begins with a rationale for the necessity of physical education in the schools. This is followed by a detailed overview of how to instruct elementary school children in the psychomotor domain. Methods of program implementation are then examined, including curriculum, instructional effectiveness, content area literacy, management and discipline, and assessment and evaluation. These concepts are then applied in field experiences for teaching of the objectives of physical education in the school situation and for application to learner analysis to meet the individual needs of the child. Experiential teaching and peer review are included in the course. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: PED-247.

GOV-260

1 Total Credits

PED-430

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course prepares students for teaching physical education to middle grade students. Concepts introduced in PED-420 will be further developed and applied to the middle grade student to enhance personal health skills, general and specialized motor skills, sports and fitness skills, and lifetime activities. Topical areas include content area literacy, curriculum, assessment, data driven instruction, teaching strategies and methods, classroom engagement and management, and learner analysis for K-12 physical education teachers. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: PED-275.

EXS-335

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is an analysis of human movement, integrating knowledge of the skeletal, muscular, and neurological systems with the effects that gravity, friction, internal and external forces, and the laws of motion have on their functions. Topics include biomechanics of human bone, joint, and skeletal muscle; structure and function of the upper extremity, lower extremity, and spine; concepts of linear and angular kinematics and kinetics as applied to human motion; equilibrium and stability on land; and motion through a fluid medium of air or water. Also included is the application of these factors to various types of physical skills. Prerequisites: BIO-155 and BIO-155L, or BIO-201 and BIO-201L, or BIO-210 and BIO-210L. Co-Requisite: EXS-335L.

EXS-335L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This laboratory course is designed to apply the anatomical, kinesiological, and biomechanical principles learned in the lecture course to human body movement. Movement of all of the major joints of the body is analyzed by relative and absolute joint position and muscle action, and biomechanical terms such as linear and angular kinematics, friction, work, power, energy, and torque are applied to human motion. Prerequisites: BIO-155 and BIO-155L, or BIO-201 and BIO-201L, or BIO-210 and BIO-210L. Co-Requisite: EXS-335.

PED-370

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is designed to present the student with the necessary information to develop a plan for identifying, evaluating, and implementing program planning for all children with disabilities. Special topics include implications of legislation that affects children with special needs, due process and the IEP, guidelines for inclusiveness and modification of activities for inclusion, characteristics of normal and abnormal motor functioning and development and behavior management techniques. The types of special populations and their specific needs are presented, and methods and techniques are developed for teaching the exceptional child in motor activities. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: PED-247.

PED-440

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course prepares students who desire to teach at the secondary school level. Topical areas include how students are assessed and classified, curriculum and instructional organization of classes and selection of appropriate methods, strategies, and materials. The course also examines teaching styles, techniques of effective student engagement, and implementing instructional activities that meet NASPE standards. Special topics involve use of technology in physical activity, content area literacy, data driven instruction and physical learner analysis of secondary school students. Students are encouraged to develop strategies for promoting an active lifestyle, lifetime activity, inclusiveness, responsibility, cooperation, and diversity. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: PED-275.

PED-450

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of the methods and procedures of teaching health. Resources, aids, and agencies are studied and methods for implementing group processing skills and conducting values-based education are reviewed and practiced. Also included are assignments to create and implement lesson planning, teaching techniques, and assessment for the topics of mental health, substance abuse, sexuality and family living, environmental health, nutrition, aging spirituality and death, and personal health. Health assessment topics include an overview of statistical tools, tests and measurements in health and physical education, producing valid and reliable tests, data analysis techniques for test evaluation, test construction assessment, and interpretation of test results. Practice teaching assignments and presentations are included. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: PED-275.

PED-480A

6 Total Credits

Course Description

The student teaching experience includes practical/clinical classroom experiences in a school setting with elementary students, grades K-6. Teacher candidates are required to fulfill a full-time 8-week internship experience in a classroom with a certified, experienced teacher. All aspects of instruction are addressed, including effective presentation of movement, sports and fitness skills, strategies and assessments of student learning, student engagement and classroom management, integration of technology and content area literacy, curriculum and learner analysis for elementary physical education teachers. The internship includes the opportunity to utilize applicable content standards for elementary students, including Arizona Professional Teacher’s Standards, and Physical Education Teacher Education Standards of the national association Shape America, and to integrate these within the classroom. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all courses in POS and content area; senior status; a 2.8 GPA; successful completion of state mandated basic skills and content area exams or Praxis I® (Basic Skills) and Praxis II® (Content Area); and approval and placement by Office of Field Experience. Arizona residents will be required to take the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessment (AEPA) or the National Evaluation Series (NES). All paperwork for student teaching must be submitted by the due date the semester prior to student teaching.

PED-480B

6 Total Credits

Course Description

The student teaching experience includes practical/clinical classroom experiences in a school setting with secondary students, grades 7-12. Teacher candidates are required to fulfill a full-time 8-week internship experience in a classroom with a certified, experienced teacher. All aspects of instruction are addressed, including effective presentation of movement, sports and fitness skills, strategies and assessments of student learning, student engagement and classroom management, integration of technology and content area literacy, curriculum, and learner analysis for secondary physical education teachers. The internship includes the opportunity to utilize applicable content standards for secondary students, including Arizona Professional Teacher’s Standards, and Physical Education Teacher Education Standards of the national association Shape America, and to integrate these within the classroom. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisites: Successful completion of PED 480A, approval and placement by Office of Field Experience.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the "Accreditation and Compliance/State Disclosures” link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state’s licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).

COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, High School Teachers, retrieved on Sept. 15, 2025.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, June 25.) About Physical Activity in Schools. CDC. Retrieved Sept. 15, 2025.

BS in Physical Education (PE) Degree

Discover Strategies To Motivate and Inspire Students

Prepare To Teach and Inspire Wellness Through Movement

PE Degree Course Topics

Develop Your Skills in an Educational Setting

Career Paths for Physical Education Degree Graduates

Pursue Your Physical Education Degree From an Accredited University

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses