Physical Education/Adapted Physical Education

Physical education gives children the skills necessary to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. Physical education and adapted physical education teachers teach K-12 physical education classes, work with administrators to implement school policies and procedures, and teach the national standards for physical education. 

Kinesiology PETE Career Tips

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Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology Option in Physical Education Teacher Education 

Two concentrations: 

The Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) option fulfills the subject matter preparation requirement for a physical education teaching credential in California. The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program in Kinesiology includes two concentrations of K-12 Physical Education Teacher Education and Adapted Physical Education (APE) teacher education. Each of these options is accredited by the California Commission for Teacher Credentialing (CCTC).

Master of Arts in Kinesiology

  • Individualized Studies option in Pedagogy for K-12 physical education teachers

  • Physical educator working in elementary and secondary public and private schools
  • Adapted physical education specialist working in public and private schools
  • Sports coach working in public school, college, university, and sport performance settings
  • High school athletic administrator

Outlook

  • According to the , the job outlook for high school PE teachers and special education (adapted PE) teachers will stay steady for the next ten years.

Annual median wages

  • High School Teachers: $90,790 CA, $65,910 US

Physical education and adapted physical education teachers’ interests, skills, and values should align with the national standards for physical education:

  • The physically literate individual demonstrates competency in a variety of motor skills and movement patterns.
  • The physically literate individual applies knowledge of concepts, principles, strategies, and tactics related to movement and performance.
  • The physically literate individual demonstrates the knowledge and skills to achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical activity and fitness.
  • The physically literate individual exhibits responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others.
  • The physically literate individual recognizes the value of physical activity for health, enjoyment, challenge, self-expression and/or social interaction.