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 Education and the College of Natural Sciences. 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.
Transfer Credits
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements
- 16+ years old
- High School Graduate
- 3.0+ Unweighted GPA
- ACT: 19
- SAT: 1000*
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
* 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).
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
Participate in Practical Student Teaching Opportunities
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.
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
Coursework
BS in Physical Education Course Topics
While you earn your bachelor's degree in physical education at GCU, some of the topics you study may include:
Career Opportunities for BS in 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 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
BS in Physical Education Degree Program FAQs
If you're considering a physical education degree, we've gathered answers to your most frequently asked questions.
Course List
Credit Summary
General Education34-40 Credits
Open Elective Credits8-14 Credits
Major72 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
University Foundations
Competency
9-12 Total Credits
Effective Communication
Competency
4 Total Credits
Christian Worldview
Competency
11-12 Total Credits
Critical Thinking
Competency
6-8 Total Credits
Global Awareness, Perspective and Ethics
Core Courses
PED-247
4 Total Credits
Teaching Strategy in Physical Education and Exercise Science
BIO-155
3 Total Credits
Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
BIO-155L
1 Total Credits
Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Lab
PED-263
4 Total Credits
Teaching of Team Sports and Individual Activities II
PED-251
4 Total Credits
Teaching of Team Sports and Individual Activities I
SPD-208
4 Total Credits
Survey of Special Education: Teaching Children with Exceptionalities
PED-275
4 Total Credits
Teaching Fitness and Wellness
EXS-340
3 Total Credits
Physiology of Exercise
EXS-340L
1 Total Credits
Physiology of Exercise-Lab
EDU-330
4 Total Credits
Social Justice for Educators
ESL-446N
3 Total Credits
Methods of Structured English Immersion for K-12 Education
PED-420
4 Total Credits
Physical Education Teacher Education Methods: Elementary Grades
GOV-260
1 Total Credits
Arizona Constitution & Government
PED-430
4 Total Credits
Physical Education Teacher Education Methods: Middle Grades
EXS-335
3 Total Credits
Kinesiology
EXS-335L
1 Total Credits
Kinesiology Lab
PED-370
4 Total Credits
Physical Education for Students with Disabilities
PED-440
4 Total Credits
Physical Education Teacher Education Methods: Secondary Grades
PED-450
4 Total Credits
Methods of Teaching and Assessing Health
PED-480A
6 Total Credits
Physical Education Student Teaching I
PED-480B
6 Total Credits
Physical Education Student Teaching II
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.