How to Become a PE Teacher: Salary & Career Paths for 2025
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
Physical education (PE) teachers play a crucial role in fostering students’ physical fitness and overall well-being. Currently, more than 28,500 PE teachers are employed across the US, yet demand remains steady as schools prioritize health and fitness education. For those considering a career in physical education, the path to becoming a certified PE teacher involves specific educational and licensing requirements. Understanding salary expectations and potential career growth can help aspiring professionals make informed decisions. This guide outlines everything you need to know to start and advance in a career as a PE teacher for 2025.
Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a PE Teacher
- Most states require a degree in physical education, kinesiology, or a related field, often with a teaching certification component.
- PE teachers must pass licensing exams, complete background checks, and often obtain CPR/first aid certification.
- With experience or an advanced degree, PE teachers can move into roles like athletic director, sports psychologist, or college-level instructor.
Table of Contents
- What degree do you need to become a PE teacher for 2025?
- What certifications do you need to become a PE teacher?
- Are there alternative certification programs for aspiring PE teachers?
- What are the top skills every PE teacher needs for 2025?
- What is the average salary of a PE teacher in the US for 2025?
- What are the job growth projections for PE teachers?
- What are the best career paths for experienced PE teachers?
- What challenges do PE teachers face and how can they overcome them?
- What additional steps can prospective PE teachers take to strengthen their credentials?
- How can PE teachers build strategic leadership skills for career advancement?
- What is the difference between teaching PE in elementary vs. high school?
- How do PE teacher responsibilities change at the college level?
- How do professional networks and community partnerships boost career growth?
- How is technology changing the way PE is taught for 2025?
- Can advanced degrees in educational leadership drive PE teachers' career advancement?
- Can cross-disciplinary research enhance PE teaching outcomes?
- Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a PE Teacher
What degree do you need to become a PE teacher for 2025?
To become a PE teacher for 2025, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in physical education, kinesiology, or a related field. Many states require a Bachelor of Science in Education with a specialization in physical education, while others accept degrees in general education with coursework focused on fitness, sports science, or child development. Some universities also offer degrees in exercise science or sports management that include teaching certification components.
Aspiring PE teachers should ensure their degree program includes courses on human anatomy, biomechanics, health education, and instructional strategies for K-12 students. Most programs also incorporate a student teaching internship, providing hands-on experience in classroom management and curriculum development. For those seeking flexibility in their education, online colleges for teaching offer accredited degree programs that meet state certification requirements.
While a bachelor’s degree is the standard requirement, many PE teachers pursue an online master's degree in education to enhance their career prospects. A master's degree can lead to opportunities in athletic administration, curriculum development, or coaching at the collegiate level. Additionally, some states require PE teachers to obtain a master’s degree within a few years of initial certification to maintain their teaching license.
What certifications do you need to become a PE teacher?
In addition to a degree, PE teachers must obtain state-specific teaching certifications to work in public schools. The certification process generally includes:
- Passing a state-approved teacher licensing exam, such as the Praxis Physical Education: Content Knowledge test or an equivalent state-specific exam.
- Completing a background check and fingerprinting process.
- Obtaining first aid and CPR certification, which many school districts require for PE teachers.
Some states also require additional endorsements in health education or adaptive physical education for teachers working with students with special needs. Those looking for cost-effective ways to meet certification requirements might consider enrolling in the cheapest online kinesiology degree program, which can provide foundational knowledge in exercise science and human movement.
Are there alternative certification programs for aspiring PE teachers?
For individuals who hold a non-education bachelor's degree but want to become PE teachers, alternative certification programs provide a pathway to licensure without requiring a second full degree. These programs, often available through state education departments or universities, typically include:
- An accelerated teacher training program covering pedagogy, curriculum planning, and classroom management.
- A mentored teaching internship, allowing candidates to gain hands-on experience while working in a school setting.
- The option to complete coursework online while fulfilling teaching requirements in person.
Many states offer post-baccalaureate certification programs that can be completed in one to two years, making them an excellent choice for career changers. Additionally, some candidates may opt to further specialize in nutrition and wellness education, complementing their PE curriculum with the cheapest online master's in nutrition for broader career opportunities.
What are the top skills every PE teacher needs for 2025?
PE teachers must possess instructional, leadership, and physical fitness skills to effectively engage students. Based on data from Zippia, the most common skills for PE teachers for 2025 include:
- Classroom Management – Maintaining discipline and fostering a structured learning environment.
- Professional Development – Continuously improving teaching strategies and staying updated with educational trends.
- Student Learning – Adapting lessons to accommodate diverse learning styles.
- Public School Experience – Understanding state education standards and curriculum guidelines.
- K-12 Instruction – Designing age-appropriate physical education programs for various grade levels.
- Physical Education Curriculum Design – Developing engaging lesson plans focused on fitness and health.
- Learning Process Adaptation – Implementing different teaching methods to meet student needs.
- Other Skills – Includes teamwork, leadership, first aid, and sport-specific knowledge.
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Below is a pie chart illustrating the percentage of PE teachers who have these skills in their resumes.
What is the average salary of a PE teacher in the US for 2025?
Salary expectations for PE teachers vary depending on education level, experience, and location. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salaries for teachers in the US as of May 2023 were:
- Elementary School Teachers – $63,680
- Middle School Teachers – $64,290
- High School Teachers – $65,220
- Postsecondary Teachers – $84,380
PE teachers generally fall within these salary ranges, with public school teachers earning higher salaries than those in private institutions due to union contracts and government funding. In states with high demand for educators, such as California, New York, and Texas, PE teachers may earn $70,000 or more annually.
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What are the job growth projections for PE teachers?
The demand for PE teachers is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. The field is projected to expand by 12%, adding approximately 159,400 new jobs over the next decade. This increase is driven by a heightened focus on student wellness, fitness education, and childhood obesity prevention programs. Schools are prioritizing health and physical activity more than ever, recognizing the long-term benefits of an active lifestyle on academic performance and student well-being.
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What are the best career paths for experienced PE teachers?
Experienced PE teachers have several career advancement opportunities. Some transition into administrative roles, such as athletic directors or curriculum coordinators, overseeing school sports programs and shaping physical education policies. Others specialize further by becoming sports psychologists, helping athletes improve performance and mental resilience through training in motivation, stress management, and goal-setting.
Additionally, some PE teachers pursue an advanced degree, such as the cheapest online master's degree in sports management, to move into sports administration or coaching at the collegiate level. This career path allows educators to combine their passion for physical education with leadership opportunities in managing athletic programs.
To provide a clearer perspective on the earning potential of these career paths, the chart below outlines the average salaries for each role.
What challenges do PE teachers face and how can they overcome them?
PE educators encounter multifaceted challenges including adapting to evolving curriculum standards, addressing diverse student fitness levels, and maintaining safety during high-impact activities. Many face budget constraints and limited access to updated equipment, which can impede innovative class delivery. Additionally, balancing administrative duties with instructional responsibilities demands robust time management and continuous professional development. Strategies such as seeking advanced leadership coursework—like those offered in 2 year EdD programs—and participating in targeted workshops can provide PE teachers with practical tools to address these challenges while enhancing student engagement and overall program effectiveness.
What additional steps can prospective PE teachers take to strengthen their credentials?
Prospective PE teachers can enhance their qualifications by seeking targeted professional development opportunities, engaging in mentorship programs, and acquiring specialized certifications that address emerging trends in fitness and health education. Participating in advanced workshops and community-led initiatives further refines instructional skills while broadening practical experience. For a streamlined entry into the profession, review how to get a teaching credential to meet current state standards and benefit from best practices in physical education instruction.
How can PE teachers build strategic leadership skills for career advancement?
PE teachers seeking to advance their careers can benefit from focused leadership development that complements their instructional expertise. Specialized workshops and mentorship programs in strategic decision-making, resource management, and team coordination enable educators to assume broader administrative responsibilities. Pursuing advanced studies, such as an online PhD organizational leadership, can offer critical insights into data-driven policy development and change management. These initiatives equip PE teachers with the skills to drive program innovation and cultivate collaborative environments in academic settings.
What is the difference between teaching PE in elementary vs. high school?
Elementary PE teachers focus on building fundamental motor skills, coordination, and general fitness through fun and engaging activities. Their lessons emphasize basic movements, teamwork, and developing a positive attitude toward physical activity. Games like obstacle courses, relay races, and simple ball games help young students improve balance, agility, and cooperation.
At the high school level, PE instruction shifts toward structured sports, advanced fitness training, and health education. Teachers incorporate strength training, endurance-building exercises, and sport-specific drills. Additionally, they educate students on nutrition, injury prevention, and lifelong fitness habits. Many high school PE teachers also take on roles such as coaching school sports teams, organizing intramural leagues, or preparing student-athletes for college scholarships.
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How do PE teacher responsibilities change at the college level?
At the college level, PE instructors transition from general fitness instruction to specialized fields such as kinesiology, sports medicine, biomechanics, or athletic training. Their responsibilities extend beyond teaching basic skills to include conducting research, designing advanced fitness programs, and mentoring student-athletes.
College PE teachers may work closely with athletic departments to develop training regimens, assess player performance, and contribute to sports science advancements. Some also lead health and wellness initiatives, educating students on fitness trends, stress management, and injury rehabilitation. Unlike K-12 PE teachers, college-level instructors often focus on preparing future educators, coaches, and sports professionals rather than general physical education.
How do professional networks and community partnerships boost career growth?
Building robust professional networks and fostering community partnerships can open gateways to innovative teaching practices and career advancement opportunities. Engaging with local sports organizations, health agencies, and academic peers provides insights into emerging trends and enables PE teachers to collaborate on community-centric projects that enhance curriculum relevance. Additionally, constructive interactions with professionals from related fields—such as exploring masters in library science career paths—can introduce alternative perspectives that enrich instructional strategies and leadership competencies. These strategic alliances not only create avenues for mentorship and collaborative research but also strengthen a teacher’s professional profile in a competitive academic landscape.
How is technology changing the way PE is taught for 2025?
The integration of technology in PE is transforming student engagement and fitness outcomes. Research has shown that wearable fitness trackers can improve engagement by 25% and fitness outcomes by 20%, while interactive fitness apps boost engagement by 22% and enhance fitness by 15%. Virtual reality (VR) has also emerged as a powerful tool, increasing student engagement by 30% and improving fitness levels by 21%.
Despite these promising advancements, experts emphasize the need for further research on long-term impacts and best practices for incorporating technology into PE programs. Schools that effectively integrate these tools can enhance student motivation, personalize fitness education, and provide interactive learning experiences that go beyond traditional physical education methods.
What do PE teachers say about their career journey?
Becoming a PE teacher has been incredibly fulfilling. Watching students grow in confidence, develop teamwork skills, and discover a love for movement makes every day rewarding. Plus, with steady job growth in education, I know I’ve chosen a stable and meaningful career. Jessica
Teaching PE isn’t just about sports—it’s about shaping lifelong habits. I love seeing students who once struggled with physical activity find joy in fitness, and it’s rewarding to know I’m helping them build a healthier future. The flexibility to coach and lead school programs is a huge bonus! Paul
The best part of being a PE teacher is the energy and excitement students bring to class. Every day is different, whether I’m designing fun activities, incorporating new fitness technology, or mentoring young athletes. It’s a career that keeps me moving—literally and figuratively! Dan
Can advanced degrees in educational leadership drive PE teachers' career advancement?
Advanced degrees in educational leadership empower PE teachers with strategic decision-making, resource management, and policy development skills that facilitate a transition into administrative roles. This academic progression not only sharpens instructional leadership but also strengthens the capacity to influence curriculum design and wellness programs across educational institutions. Interested professionals can explore programs such as the cheapest online masters in education administration to gain both flexibility and cost-effective advancement opportunities.
Can cross-disciplinary research enhance PE teaching outcomes?
Integrating cross-disciplinary research skills into physical education can foster innovative curriculum development and improve instructional strategies. By leveraging methods from academic fields that emphasize data analysis and resource organization, educators can design lessons that are both evidence-based and engaging. This approach minimizes reliance on traditional pedagogies, enabling teachers to critically evaluate emerging trends and tailor their programs to contemporary student needs. Professionals exploring opportunities in careers library science exemplify how advanced research skills and systematic information management can broaden the scope of teaching practices in physical education.
Key Findings
- The demand for PE teachers is expected to grow by 12%, adding approximately 159,400 new jobs over the next decade.
- The profession is expanding due to increased emphasis on student fitness and wellness programs.
- PE teachers typically earn within the range of $63,680 (elementary) to $65,220 (high school), with higher salaries in certain states.
- Athletic directors earn around $115,676, while sports psychologists can make up to $108,792.
- Wearable fitness trackers and VR have significantly improved student engagement (by up to 30%) and fitness levels (by 21%).
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a PE Teacher
Can a PE teacher become a personal trainer or coach?
Yes, a PE teacher can transition into a career as a personal trainer or coach. Their background in exercise science, fitness instruction, and student motivation provides a strong foundation for training athletes or clients of all ages. Many PE teachers earn additional certifications, such as a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) credential from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) or the American Council on Exercise (ACE). Coaching school or community sports teams can also serve as a stepping stone into higher-level coaching positions. With the right credentials and experience, PE teachers can work in gyms, sports academies, or even start their own training businesses.
What careers can a PE teacher pursue outside of schools?
PE teachers have many career options outside of traditional school settings. They can work as corporate wellness coaches, designing fitness programs for employees, or as sports psychologists, helping athletes improve performance and mental resilience. Some transition into sports administration, managing athletic programs for colleges, professional teams, or recreational organizations. Others pursue careers in fitness technology, developing workout apps or wearable fitness devices. With additional training, PE teachers can also become physical therapists, occupational therapists, or health educators in hospitals and community centers.
How can new PE teachers gain experience before applying for jobs?
New PE teachers can gain experience by working as assistant coaches, substitute teachers, or volunteers for youth sports programs. Completing a student teaching internship as part of their degree program is essential for hands-on classroom experience. Many also gain valuable skills by leading fitness workshops, summer camps, or after-school physical activity programs. Earning certifications in first aid, CPR, or strength and conditioning can make them more competitive candidates. Networking with experienced teachers and joining professional organizations can also open doors to mentorship and job opportunities.
What factors do schools consider when hiring PE teachers?
Schools look for PE teachers who have the proper educational background, typically a bachelor’s degree in physical education, kinesiology, or a related field. Strong classroom management skills and the ability to engage students of all fitness levels are also key factors. Many schools prefer candidates with additional certifications in CPR, first aid, or coaching, as well as experience in teaching or sports leadership. A candidate’s ability to integrate technology, design inclusive fitness programs, and promote student wellness can also influence hiring decisions. Finally, schools value teachers who demonstrate enthusiasm, adaptability, and a passion for fostering lifelong fitness habits in students.
References:
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- BLS. (2024, August 29). Postsecondary teachers. BLS.
- Glassdoor. (2024, June 6). Salary: Athletics Director in United States 2025. Glassdoor.
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- Zippia. (2024, July 24). Physical education teacher trends. Zippia.
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- Zippia. (2025, January 8). Physical Education Teacher skills for your resume and career. Zippia.
