The Physical Education major equips students to teach health, fitness, and sports skills to PreK-12 students.
Designed to meet teaching certification requirements in multiple states, the program opens doors to local and regional employment opportunities. The curriculum adheres to the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America Teacher Education standards, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to excel in educational settings.
Offered On Campus
120 Credit Hours
Estimated Time to Complete: Four Years
Sample Coursework
Personal Health
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Behavioral and Social Issues in HPER/A
Curriculum Development and Evaluation
Exercise Physiology
Adapted Physical Education
Motor Learning and Development
7-12 Methods of Teaching PE
Related Minors
Athletic Coaching Permit
Adapted Physical Activities
Biology
Coaching
Early Childhood Education
Elementary Reading
Health
Special Education
Similar Programs
Human Performance
Sports Administration
Elementary Education
Music Education, K-12
Psychology
Secondary Education
Social Science Education
Special Education
Become a Skilled Educator
Core courses provide a robust foundation in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise science, and motor development, while specialized classes such as adapted physical education and curriculum development prepare students to address diverse student needs. Methods courses for K-8 and 7-12 education focus on effective teaching strategies and classroom management, ensuring graduates are ready to lead dynamic and inclusive physical education programs.
Comprehensive teacher education requirements, including field experiences, student teaching, and coursework in educational psychology, instructional design, and classroom technology, complement the curriculum. This well-rounded program ensures students are subject-matter experts and skilled educators ready to thrive in various educational settings.
Deeper Learning through Hands-On Experiences
The Sports Sciences Department highly values experiential learning at Northern State University as it offers numerous benefits beyond the traditional classroom setting. Encouraging students to engage in hands-on experiences actively fosters a deeper understanding of the subject, as well as critical thinking and practical skills application. Northern State University offers experiential learning in various forms, exemplified by partnerships with esteemed organizations such as the South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the South Dakota Special Olympics, and the Northern State Athletics Department. These collaborations allow students to work directly with diverse populations, honing their empathy, adaptability, and cultural competence. Additionally, students benefit from immersion in real-world scenarios, such as conducting research in the Nora Evert Staale Human Performance and Sports Biomechanics Lab and the Digital Arts Green Screen Lab, where they can apply theoretical knowledge to solve practical problems. Through experiential learning, Northern State University ultimately empowers students to become versatile professionals equipped with the skills and insights needed to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.
Get Involved on Campus
Build skills outside the classroom and get involved with the Aberdeen community with clubs and organizations.