Bachelor’s in Physical Education Plus at KU

Program Overview

The bachelor's degree in physical education (PE) plus at the University of Kansas prepares individuals to become PE teachers at the pre-kindergarten through the 12th grade levels. The PE plus program also prepares graduates to pursue a licensure endorsement (by KSDE examination) in a variety of areas, or earn a minor in business or sport management.

Career Outcomes in the Teaching Field

Students who graduate with a bachelor's degree in physical education plus from the University of Kansas will have fulfilled the requirements for the degree as well as the requirements to pursue an initial teaching license in physical education for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade in Kansas. Graduates who have chosen to pursue a second teaching area in addition to PE, will have also completed coursework to prepare them to earn (by KSDE examination) an add-on licensure endorsement in one of the following areas: health (PK-12), mathematics (5-8), science (5-8), English (5-8 or 6-12), speech/theatre (6-12), or psychology (6-12). The bachelor's degree in physical education plus prepares individuals to work as teachers in the classroom, as well as with other physical education-related settings. Potential position titles after graduation could include:

Teacher
Fitness professional
Program coordinator
Curriculum specialist
Department chair
Physical activity leader
Athletic director
Entrepreneur
Events & operations coordinator
Personnel manager

The physical education plus program meets the educational requirements for licensure in the state of Kansas.

KU’s licensure programs strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information about the educational requirements for licensure in U.S. states and territories. However, regulations are subject to change and varying interpretations. In addition to possible changes in educational requirements, licensure often includes additional requirements, such as specific examinations and additional training or practicum hours. It is highly recommended that students seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency before beginning an academic program to ensure they know what is needed to obtain the license/certification/registration in the state in which they intend to practice and/or seek licensure.

Resources for licensure and certification boards outside of Kansas

Related degrees

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Career Statistics

$58K salary

Graduates can expect an average salary of $58,000 in Kansas, according to the Kansas State Department of Education.

KSDE School Finance Reports

Licensure endorsements

Students who successfully complete this program at KU may be eligible to take advantage of licensure endorsements options in a variety of areas.

Minor options

Students may also choose to pursue a minor in business or sport management rather than adding a licensure endorsement.

Graduate study

Those who choose to pursue an advanced degree after graduation are considered for many highly-selective master's & doctoral programs across the U.S.

Thinking about physical education?

Let us know you’re interested in the program. We would love to connect with you to discuss the program’s curriculum, steps necessary for admission to KU, and what to expect during the professional program.

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Program Details & Admission Requirements

"PE+ is not just a program on campus, but a community. It’s a tight knit group from the professors to the students. Everyone is committed to learning how we can best serve communities through physical activity and FUN!"

Blaine Jepson

Senior in PE+

#11

Public School of Education & Human Sciences

95%

Average licensure exam pass rate

71%

Employed in degree field

50%

Obtained further education

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As students, we shine. As Jayhawks, we rise. Life on campus includes more than academics. Students in the School of Education and Human Sciences are engaged, involved learners.

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Undergraduate Research

Students who want to support a faculty member’s research agenda or even design their own project have access to experiences through the Osness Human Performance Laboratories.

Center for Community Outreach

Students can participate in collaborative partnership and service programs that address needs and empower the community through education and advocacy.

School of Education & Human Sciences

Email:

soehsambassadors@ku.edu

Joseph R. Pearson Hall , Rm. 221

1122 West Campus Rd.

Lawrence , Kansas 66045-3101

Accreditation

The KU School of Education and Human Sciences is accredited under the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Accreditation System.

Learn About Accreditation