What Can You Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education?
Why Is Physical Education Important To Study?
Physical education (PE) is about much more than playing sports, it’s about empowering people to lead active, healthy lives and building lifelong wellness strategies.
With affecting over 1 in 5 kids in the U.S. — and rates of severe obesity doubling in the last two decades — PE teachers, specifically, are on the front lines of a growing health crisis. Through PE, students build essential motor skills, develop physical literacy, and form positive habits that support both mental and physical well-being for years to come.
Whether you're passionate about fitness, education, coaching, or public health, a bachelor's degree in physical education offers a foundation for a variety of impactful careers.
Physical Education Jobs: Teaching and Beyond
Physical Education Teacher
One of the most direct routes with a bachelor's in physical education is becoming a physical education teacher. You’ll help students build confidence and develop positive habits that can change their lives. But the experience depends heavily on the school environment.
A found that PE teachers thrive when they feel a sense of autonomy, support from colleagues, and confidence in their skills. Without support, job satisfaction can drop, something echoed in a revealing that many PE teachers face feelings of isolation, marginalization, and lack access to further professional development.
It’s worth seeking out schools and districts that value innovation, foster collaboration across departments, support PE as a core subject, and encourage ongoing peer interaction.
That’s why it’s worth seeking out schools and districts that value innovation, foster collaboration across departments, support PE as a core subject, and encourage ongoing peer interaction. Schools that partner with local or national PE associations can be especially valuable. Future educators should also seek out employers that have administrative buy-in for wellness initiatives and include PE leaders in decision-making.
Teaching PE today isn’t just about dodgeball, it’s about connecting with students through culturally relevant and exciting activities. A , for example, shows how incorporating things like parkour, cycling, or paddleboarding into the curriculum can make movement more meaningful for today’s youth, boosting their motivation to stay active.
That’s why modern PE educators are also innovators leading the shift toward dynamic curriculums that get students moving and ultimately help communities thrive.
Since PE teachers often feel that their subject is undervalued compared to other disciplines, look for degrees that frame PE as a critical part of holistic student development. Look for programs with adapted PE courses, inclusive teaching strategies, and training in modern activities like yoga, mindfulness, and non-traditional sports.
How Online PE Training Helped Launch a Career in Sport and Fitness
Cricket Fitness Instructor
I got into physical education because sport and movement have always felt like second nature to me. I spent a lot of time coaching cricket when I was younger and realised I enjoyed helping others improve just as much as playing myself. That’s what pushed me to take it more seriously and go after a degree that could actually open doors in coaching and fitness.
The most helpful parts of my program were the teaching-focused modules. Learning how to break down exercises and get people moving well was key. One class in particular focused on adapting training for people with different needs or injuries. That one stuck with me. It made me rethink how I approach fitness as a coach, not just for athletes but for everyday people too.
Doing the course online was a bit of an adjustment. Physical education isn’t something that naturally fits behind a laptop screen. You want to be in a gym, on a field, actually moving around. What helped me get through that was treating it like training. I made a schedule, turned up for live sessions, got involved, recorded myself doing drills for feedback. It wasn’t always comfortable, but it worked.
EXPERT TIP
My advice for anyone thinking about this field is simple. Stay active in your learning, not just physically but mentally. Try different tools, speak up in class, work with people when you can. The more you interact, the more you get out of it. And if you can find a course that gives you real-world experience alongside the theory, even better.
After graduating, I went into personal training and eventually launched my own cricket brand. The degree didn’t just teach me exercise science, it gave me structure and a way of thinking. It gave me the tools to take what I knew and turn it into something real, whether that was one-on-one coaching or creating cricket products for players at every level.
If I could go back and tell myself one thing before starting the degree, it’d be to take every chance you get to apply what you’re learning. Volunteer, coach, ask questions. You don’t really learn this stuff just by reading about it. And don’t assume online means easy. You need discipline and a bit of self-push to stay on top of things.
Instructional Designer and Digital Curriculum Developer
Freddie’s story above is just one example of how PE graduates can shape their careers around real-world needs. For others, the opportunity lies not in direct fitness coaching but in designing the learning systems behind it.
With a degree in PE, you can step into roles like curriculum designer, instructional technologist, or online program developer, a growing need in post-pandemic education.
If you're tech-savvy and passionate about movement, there’s a growing space for you. A shows that PE is embracing blended learning, meaning there’s rising demand for professionals who can design engaging, tech-integrated lessons. Think interactive videos, online fitness challenges, or even virtual coaching tools.
Physical education graduates are uniquely positioned to contribute to the rise of digital fitness and hybrid learning.
, a career clarity expert, sees this shift often: "PE grads are equipped with highly transferable skills like leadership, motivational coaching, wellness knowledge, and event planning,” which translate naturally into instructional design, teacher training, and program development.
White offers a compelling example: “Take one client I worked with: she had a PE degree, initially planned to be a teacher, but felt called to something different. By leveraging her lesson planning and communication experience, she landed a role as a corporate wellness coordinator. She now designs health challenges and leads mindfulness sessions for employees, and she's never set foot in a traditional classroom.”
Graduates with a physical education degree can go beyond teaching by designing online professional development (CPD) programs for fellow educators. A found that PE teachers are especially interested in accessible, evidence-based CPD focused on motor skill instruction, interactivity, and community-building. This opens the door for graduates to lead in curriculum development, teacher training, and digital pedagogy.
Want a leg up? Consider a master's in the field to give you a competitive edge. If cost is a concern, check our our list of the most affordable online PE master's programs.
Rehabilitation Specialist
A degree in this field can also lead to opportunities in allied health and interdisciplinary public health careers. Many grads step into roles like fitness trainers or rehab specialists, helping people recover from injuries and improve their overall well-being through movement.
And the job outlook is strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (), careers in this space are expected to grow by an impressive 14% through 2033, which is well above the national average.
Curious what that path can look like? Below, we highlight an expert who turned his educational background into a thriving career in this growing field.
Blending Psychology and PE: Abdullah’s Journey Into Rehab Leadership
Rehab Clinic Founder
Many people believe that physical education degrees are only meant for teaching gym classes. However, after starting , I have realized that PE graduates have a special advantage in areas such as corporate wellness and trauma therapy if they know how to harness it.
Physical education became my choice because physical movement functions as the least appreciated therapeutic instrument. I dedicated my study to observing how one exercise can produce changes in both physical structures and mental states while others concentrated on textbook studies.
Through my online program's kinesiology labs, I learned to detect hidden pain patterns by analyzing videos of human movement.
What was your biggest challenge?
The practice of converting theoretical concepts into real-world applications without access to direct cues. I recorded my coaching sessions with neighbors' children before requesting frame-by-frame feedback from professors. My dedication resulted in securing internships which combined physical education with psychology and led to the establishment of my rehabilitation clinic.
What did you wish you'd known earlier?
The curriculum of PE degrees requires students to develop problem-solving abilities rather than memorize standard procedures. Creating workout plans for senior citizens and athletes with injuries requires the same analytical approach as clinical thinking. Every class should function as a learning opportunity containing essential tools. That motor development lecture? The key to creating rehabilitation protocols exists in this information. The sports psych module? Gold for addiction therapy.
Online PE programs tend to focus on theory so I balanced academic study with rec center volunteer work to practice my cueing and corrections.
What is some uncommon advice you have for those in this field?
The fixation on attaining perfect form should be ignored.
Real-world rehabilitation programs utilize imperfect movements to help patients regain their confidence. A physical education graduate who recognizes the reasons behind awkward movements holds more value than ten postural correction specialists.
Allied Health Professional
Sports and exercise professionals are playing an increasingly important role in modern healthcare.
A on interdisciplinary care emphasized the growing role of sports and exercise professionals in managing chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
In countries like Australia, exercise physiologists are integrated into healthcare systems (and even covered by insurance). The U.S. follows a similar model with athletic trainers, who are formally recognized as allied health professionals. They’re trained to work alongside doctors, nurses, and therapists to improve patient outcomes through activity-based care.
Experts like believe that PE grads bring an essential blend of leadership and behavioral science to public health roles. He explains that graduates with a background in physical education are well-positioned to contribute in healthcare settings. “The degree builds a strong foundation in human movement, behavior, and leadership, skills that translate well into roles in healthcare,” he explains. These transferable abilities are highly valued in fast-paced, people-centered environments like allied health.
Aldrich notes that breaking out of the “gym teacher” narrative is often the biggest hurdle. “The biggest challenge is overcoming the assumption that teaching in schools is the only track available.” He explains, “Graduates can tackle this by earning certifications (like CPT, CSCS, or health coaching credentials) and building a portfolio through internships or volunteer work.”
Stay curious, network outside your major, and don’t be afraid to mix physical education with tech, business, or public service, some of the most exciting roles are at the intersections.
He encourages students to stay open-minded and pursue hybrid paths that connect their interests to broader industries. With the right mindset and a proactive approach, PE grads can thrive in healthcare-adjacent careers that blend movement science with human impact.
As healthcare continues to embrace holistic, movement-based care, professionals with a PE background will find increasing opportunities to contribute in meaningful, patient-centered ways.
Others use their PE or exercise science backgrounds as launchpads into the business world.
With an exercise science degree and the right certifications, you can become a key player in this team-based approach to care.
Business Leadership
Mark Niemann didn’t follow a conventional path in physical education. With early coursework in biomechanics and kinesiology, he carved out a successful career in sales, marketing, and business strategy across wellness-focused industries.
Drawing on over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, Mark offers practical advice for students who want to use their PE or exercise science degree as a springboard into tech, branding, and leadership roles.
A Nontraditional Take: From Sports Science to Entrepreneurship
Managing Director
Why did you choose the field of sports science?
My initial interest stemmed from a deep passion for physical performance and human potential. I was fascinated by the science behind movement, endurance, and wellness.
Kinesiology and biomechanics courses provided practical, applicable knowledge that I still reference when working with wellness and sports brands today. They taught me how to analyze results, which translated perfectly to performance marketing later in my career.
Was your online degree challenging?
[The] lack of hands-on practical experiences made skill development slower. I overcame this by volunteering with local sports and youth programs to gain real-world exposure. A theory-heavy approach without exposure to people and practice limits career readiness.
How did your career path evolve?
I pivoted from physical wellness to business development, helping fitness and wellness tech companies grow. The credibility of my degree allowed me to speak authentically when entering the health space in sales and marketing.
I wish I'd known [that] a degree is a foundation, but your curiosity, willingness to network, and business acumen often create the largest career leaps.
Do you have any advice for students pursuing a degree in this field?
Leverage the degree’s flexibility; combine health knowledge with adjacent interests like entrepreneurship, tech, or communication. People with hybrid skill sets are highly sought after.
If you also want to pursue a degree more aligned with this career path, consider an online kinesiology bachelor's program.
Community Health Advocate
If you’re passionate about making a difference, a PE degree can be your gateway to driving change in the communities that need it most. Those in this field can serve as powerful advocates for wellness, especially in areas where access to health education is limited or culturally sensitive.
A on ultra-Orthodox women in higher education shows just how impactful this work can be. In settings where topics like fitness and nutrition are rarely discussed, PE-trained professionals became trusted, culturally aware health advocates that promote nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being in ways that align with local values. This is helpful in groups where such topics may be stigmatized or misunderstood.
PE-trained professionals became trusted, culturally aware health advocates that promote nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being in ways that align with local values.
Whether in rural towns, immigrant neighborhoods, or urban low-income areas, PE professionals can lead grassroots efforts to improve public health through outreach, education, and mentorship. By combining their expertise in movement science with cultural empathy, they help dismantle stigma, build trust, and empower individuals to take charge of their well-being. In doing so, they foster health equity, resilience, and long-term social mobility.
If this path interests you, and you're most passionate about preventive care, health literacy, and community engagement, you may consider a health education degree as another suitable alternative to a PE degree. The field is growing faster than average, with a projected 7% job growth and a median salary of $63,000, according to the . A health education specialist offers both purpose and stability, and it's perfect for those who want to turn compassion into action.
Beyond Teaching: Insights from Career Coaches
A degree in physical education might sound like a direct path to teaching, but industry experts say that perception sells graduates short. “One of the most exciting directions we see graduates go is in sports event coordination and athletic program logistics,” says , a global career coach. “You're not teaching form — you’re managing people, schedules, and energy.”
The versatility of PE grads makes them valuable in many roles. Walker explains, "You can step into industries like sports marketing, youth tourism, non-profit outreach, and even outdoor education. Adventure camps, fitness retreats, and international sport-for-change programs are looking for people who understand how bodies move and how to lead diverse groups."
This leadership capacity often goes unrecognized, especially when resumes lean too heavily on teaching language. “Framing matters,” says Walker. “Instead of ‘taught PE,’ say ‘led group-based physical development programs’ or ‘designed performance-driven coaching systems.’”
Career coach echoes that idea, adding that his own winding journey through wilderness education with Outward Bound and health coaching taught him the value of movement-based communication:
"Over time, I became an NFPT-certified personal trainer, an ACE-certified health coach, a Tai Chi instructor, and an EMT, not because it was part of some master plan, but because I kept seeing where people needed support and wanted to be able to offer it.
That's what physical education graduates have going for them -- a strong base in movement and motivation that can expand into so much more. You can branch into counseling, coaching, leadership, nutrition, public health, or even emergency services. You already know how to teach and adapt on the fly. You already know how to engage people and keep them moving. Those are real assets.
The challenge is that most people think a P.E. degree leads only to teaching gym. But that's just one option. Your job now is to translate your experience into language other fields understand.
When you say you ran classes, describe it as group leadership. If you designed workouts, that's program planning. If you kept kids engaged and learning, you know behavior change. Own that.
Entry-level roles worth exploring include wellness coordinator, recreation program assistant, youth development, community fitness, and public health outreach. And don't overlook EMS or fire service -- both are demanding, but grounded in movement, communication, and compassion.
If you want to move into leadership, the fastest way is through service. Show up. Be reliable. Step into opportunities that stretch you. Get certified in the areas you're curious about. Keep learning. And don't wait for the "perfect job" -- start where you can make a difference, then grow from there.
You've got more options than you think. Just don't be afraid to go off the map."
PE graduates bring highly transferable skills, like communication, teamwork, and behavioral insight. These fit across sectors like public health, EMS, nonprofit outreach, and corporate wellness.
What Entry-Level Roles Offer Long-Term Growth?
, a career coach, lays out the best entry-level PE jobs to get you started.
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Fitness Trainer / Fitness Director
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Youth Coach / Athletic Director
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Corporate Wellness Assistant / Wellness Manager
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PT Aide / Rehab Specialist (with more education)
Alto said, "Don't let the degree title limit you. You're a motivator, leader, and health advocate. Stay curious, get involved in your field, and be open to paths that combine your passion with impact."
He also answered the question: How can you move into leadership from there?
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Seek mentorship
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Lead small initiatives or programs
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Learn operations (budgeting, scheduling, hiring)
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Consider an advanced degree (e.g., Sports Management or MEd)
Leadership is about showing initiative and delivering results–a title comes later.
Alto even lays out the transferable skills you can mention in a resume:
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Leadership & teamwork
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Public speaking & instruction
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Time management
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Conflict resolution
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Creativity in engagement
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Passion for health & wellness
EXPERT TIP
Alto's advice: Network with professionals in adjacent fields, earn complementary certifications, and translate their experience into language the business world understands.
Final Thoughts
A bachelor's degree in physical education is a launching pad into a wide range of dynamic, purpose-driven careers, whether you see yourself in a gym, a clinic, a startup, or a classroom.
Throughout this guide, we’ve seen how PE graduates are reshaping what’s possible: they’re innovating in instructional design, leading public health outreach, building rehabilitation programs, and even running wellness-focused businesses. Experts show that with creativity, curiosity, and a willingness to learn beyond the basics, a PE degree can evolve into a powerful interdisciplinary toolkit.
Most importantly, the future of this field lies in its adaptability. If you want to teach, heal, train, or advocate — there’s space for you here.
Explore more: We have curated a list of the best online master's in exercise science degrees as well as the most affordable online master's programs in health education.
FAQs About Online Physical Education Degrees
Can You Get A Physical Education Degree Online?
Yes, you can earn a physical education degree entirely online, especially at the bachelor's and master's levels.
As highlighted above, a recent shows that online PE degrees are evolving to include blended learning models, a rapidly growing area that integrates digital tools into physical education. This shift opens possibilities other than teaching, including careers in instructional design, educational technology, and online curriculum development for PE. Graduates skilled in using tech to promote active learning are increasingly valuable in both K-12 and adult education settings.
Many accredited online schools now offer flexible programs that combine online coursework with in-person fieldwork, such as student teaching or lab experiences. These hybrid elements are crucial for gaining hands-on skills, especially for careers in education or fitness.
Some programs also incorporate interactive tools like virtual labs, video-based assessments, and fitness tracking apps to simulate real-world teaching environments. When choosing a program, confirm that it meets the licensure requirements in your state if you plan to become a PE teacher.
Is a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education Necessary?
A bachelor’s degree is most often crucial for becoming a licensed PE teacher. It covers core areas like exercise science, teaching methods, and classroom management. But it also serves as a launchpad for broader roles, as I outlined above.
What Is The Average Physical Education Teacher Salary?
According to the BLS, physical education teachers fall under broader categories of teachers by grade levels. Here are the median annual wages as of May 2024:
- : $63,670
- : $61,960 and $64,580, respectively
- : $ 75,770
These figures suggest that PE teachers in grade school earn salaries that are roughly the same, whether it's younger or older kids. Postsecondary PE instructors, however, earn significantly more (about 18% higher than high school PE teachers) likely due to additional degree requirements (such as a master's in exercise science or even a doctorate) and sometimes specializations in areas like Kinesiology, Health Sciences, or Sports Education.
While these are median wages just four years after graduation, actual salaries over time can vary depending on state and district funding, teacher experience, unionization, and whether the school is public or private. PE teachers in states with strong education budgets or high cost of living (such as California, New York, and Massachusetts) may earn above-average wages. Meanwhile, rural or underfunded districts may offer salaries below the national median.
How To Become a Physical Education Teacher?
To become a licensed PE teacher, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in physical education, kinesiology, or a related field, along with completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program. This often includes student teaching experience and coursework in pedagogy, motor development, anatomy, and curriculum planning.
After earning your degree, you’ll also need to pass a state licensing exam. Many online programs now offer hybrid options that blend virtual coursework with local student teaching placements, giving you flexibility without sacrificing the hands-on experience required for licensure.
Do States Have Different Physical Education Standards?
Yes, they do. Each state sets its own PE curriculum guidelines, licensing requirements, and standards for student fitness and skill development. While some states closely follow America's national standards, others create customized frameworks with different emphasis areas.
If you're earning your degree online, especially from an out-of-state university, confirm that the curriculum aligns with your home state’s licensure requirements. Some programs are designed with national certification pathways in mind, making them more portable across states.
What Is Adaptive Physical Education?
Adaptive Physical Education (APE) is a specialized teaching area that focuses on designing and delivering physical education tailored to students with disabilities or diverse physical needs.
APE instructors assess individual student abilities and develop modified activities that promote physical literacy, inclusion, and motor skill development. This field is especially valuable in special education settings, therapeutic recreation, and community health programs.
Many online and traditional PE degrees offer APE as a concentration, often integrating coursework in behavioral support, IEP planning, and inclusive pedagogy.
Should I Get a Master's Degree in Physical Education?
A master’s degree in physical education can enhance your teaching skills, broaden your career options, and potentially increase your earning potential. It’s especially useful for current educators seeking advancement, athletic coaches moving into leadership roles, or professionals interested in health promotion or curriculum development.
Some graduate programs emphasize coaching theory, while others focus on adapted physical education, health education, or exercise science. Online master’s degrees in PE often offer flexible schedules for working teachers and may include thesis, capstone, or certification options tailored to your goals.
How Do I Choose A Physical Education Major?
Start by identifying whether you're most interested in teaching, coaching, fitness, or therapeutic work. Most PE majors fall under broader categories, such as kinesiology, exercise science, or health and physical education.
Look for accredited schools with state-approved teacher preparation programs, particularly if you plan to become licensed. Consider programs that emphasize experiential learning, such as student teaching, coaching practicums, or community health outreach, as well as those that offer concentrations in areas that interest you, like Coaching, APE, or Health Promotion.
If you're interested in online degrees only, prioritize schools with strong virtual teaching tools and in-person practicum options.