Bachelor of Science (BS) in Physical Education Degree

Female BS in Physical Education major leading outdoor yoga class at GCU
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Overview

Physical Education Bachelor Degree Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Physical Education degree program offered by Grand Canyon University is a collaborative initiative from the College of Natural Science and the College of Education. The BS in Physical Education degree attracts teacher candidates who possess an enduring love of sports, physical fitness and wellness. Physical education (PE) teachers can serve as powerful role models and motivators for the next generation as they strive to make healthy choices and reach their full potential in the PK-12 grade school setting.

Group of male and female physical education majors jumping outside

Bachelor of Science in Physical Education

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

Class Settings
Campus
Tuition Rate

Campus$8,250 per semester [More Info]

Course Information
Credits: 120
Campus: 15 weeks
Online: 7 weeks

[More Info]
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

Benefits of Earning Your BS in Physical Education From GCU

GCU’s major in physical education for bachelor-level students offers a modern curriculum that is fully 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.

This physical education bachelor’s degree enables teacher candidates to develop these core competencies:

  • Create a safe, positive learning environment
  • Meet the diverse needs of students with varying abilities
  • Empower students to thrive physically, and stay active in and out of school
Male physical education major coaching two young basketball players

Participate in Practical Student Teaching Opportunities

Male PE teacher coaching group of young male students on outdoor basketball court

All teacher candidates working on a physical education degree are required to complete a student teaching experience. Under the supervision of a certified, experienced physical education teacher, our bachelor of physical education candidates will apply their knowledge to the classroom by completing a total of 105 practicum/field experience hours. In addition, in their final semester, each candidate will dedicate two 8-week sessions to supervised student teaching where each session focuses on teaching in a different setting, such as teaching elementary education and teaching secondary education.

By successfully completing this program, including the built-in practicum and student teaching experiences, physical education teacher candidates are eligible for a K-12 education teaching credential in the state of Arizona.

Coursework

BS in Physical Education Course Topics

Read through some of the subjects you will be taught while you earn your bachelor’s degree in physical education at GCU.

Some of the topics you study may include:

Human development and function

Fitness development and assessment

Biomedical principles

Instructional technology

Physical education for students with disabilities

Techniques and best practices for safe movement

Teaching methods for individual and team sports

11,100

Number of new jobs estimated to open for high school teachers from 2022 to 20321

Develop Your Skills With a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education

Physical education teachers fulfill several roles within a school system. They assess and guide the physical development of students, provide nutritional guidance and inspire an enthusiasm for healthy exercise. Many physical education teachers also coach one or more school sports teams.

Additionally, a major in physical education can allow you to guide the socio-emotional development and ethical awareness of your students. Through your connection with students, instilling values such as good sportsmanship and teamwork is at the heart of your teachings. As a physical education instructor, you can help your students work toward a love of healthy competition, tempered by the humility to gracefully accept a loss.

Some of the responsibilities of a physical education teacher may include:

  • Developing a well-rounded curriculum
  • Organizing activities
  • Preparing and maintaining gym equipment
  • Teaching students how to play sports and other physically active games
Male physical education student smiling in front of weights in gym
Careers

Career Opportunities With a BS in Physical Education Degree

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 as instructors in elementary, middle or high school PE programs or direct physical activity programs.

The Bachelor of Science in Physical Education degree program at GCU leads to initial teacher licensure. A major in physical education gives candidates the opportunity to pursue all necessary certifications required by the state in which they wish to teach.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 11,100 new jobs are estimated to open for high school teachers from 2022 to 2032.1

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Courses

Course List

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.
Required General Education Courses
Core Courses
  • 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
Male physical education major tying shoe of young soccer player on field

Make an Impact on Future Generations

To get started on your BS in Physical Education degree, complete the form on this page to connect with a university counselor.

Apply Now

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 licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).

1 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2022 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, High School Teachers, retrieved on April 24, 2024.

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