Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology - Physical Education Teacher Education
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Physical Education Teacher Education is ideal for students who want to inspire and educate students about the importance of physical fitness and healthy lifestyles. With this degree, you can make a positive impact on the health and well-being of younger generations through engaging and fun physical activities.
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Physical Education Teacher Education equips you with the skills and knowledge to pursue a teaching certificate in K-12 physical education, enabling you to inspire and educate students about the importance of physical fitness and healthy lifestyles. With this degree, you can make a positive impact on the health and well-being of younger generations through engaging and fun physical activities.
The Physical Education Teacher Certification program provides comprehensive knowledge about the structure of physical education through content courses in individual and team sports, dance, lifetime activities, teaching methods, and adapted physical education. Students apply this knowledge in practical settings to ensure they are well-prepared to teach physical education.
Certification Options
Incoming students who wish to pursue the Physical and/or Health Education at the University of Kentucky should select Kinesiology: Physical Education Teacher Education (B.S.E.) on their application. Once enrolled, your academic advisor will assist you in choosing the best option for you. You will choose from one of the following certification options.
Plan 1: Students are encouraged to complete this plan, which includes majors in both Physical Education Teacher Certification and Health Education Teacher Certification. Graduates will be qualified to pursue their teaching certification in physical education and health education for grades K-12.
Plan 2: (Single Discipline Certification): Students who choose to major in either Physical Education Teacher Certification or Health Education Teacher Certification alone must select a university-approved minor. They will be certified to teach only in the chosen discipline.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), recognizing our commitment to high standards in teacher preparation. This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous benchmarks for quality, continuous improvement, and positive impact in the field of education.
Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?
If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.
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What You'll Learn
The Physical Education Teacher Certification program provides comprehensive knowledge about the structure of physical education through content courses in individual and team sports, dance, lifetime activities, teaching methods, and adapted physical education. Students apply this knowledge in practical settings to ensure they are well-prepared to teach physical education.
Below is a template that outlines the typical course progression for this major. Actual progression may vary based on factors such as AP/IB credits, dual enrollment, transfer credits, and individual academic readiness. A College of Education academic advisor will help develop a path to graduation that is best suited for you. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan for the different options.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Program Specific Requirements
ACT scores may allow students to opt out of Praxis testing for program admission.
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2025
Being a Physical Education teacher is the best job in the world. I love being able to interact with and influence the younger generation on a daily basis. All while teaching and leading them in lessons that have a positive impact on their health. The physical education program at UK prepared me by allowing me to get first hand experience in the classroom. My experience at UK also allowed me to form many valuable relationships with other people in the profession who have helped me become the teacher I am today.
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
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At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
