Want to become a physical education teacher or athletic coach and inspire young people to live physically active and healthier lives? Consider earning a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology with a concentration in physical education teacher certification.

Coursework

Students in this concentration take courses in human anatomy, human physiology, education as a profession, fitness and motor skill acquisition, sports skill proficiency, and more. Classes are experience-based — our undergraduates stay physically active as they progress through the curriculum. Service-learning opportunities include Special Olympics, field days and special events in local elementary schools, and volunteer coaching.

• View Program Handbook
• Learn more about the Honors Program for students concentrating in Physical Education

Student Teaching

With the help of their faculty advisors and the Office of Clinical Experiences, our undergraduates are placed in both an elementary and a secondary school — typically within a 50 miles radius of metro Birmingham — during their student teaching semester. Since UAB is close to and has affiliations with a wide range of urban, suburban, and rural public schools, our students have the opportunity to experience varied and diverse teaching environments.

Teacher Certification

Students must apply and be admitted to the UAB Teacher Education Program (TEP) midway through their undergraduate coursework. Our Kinesiology Physical Education Teacher Certification program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by the Alabama State Board of Education. Successful completion of our curriculum makes students eligible for Class B Professional Educator Certification.

Graduate Studies and Career Opportunities

A major in kinesiology with a concentration in physical education teacher certification prepares students for careers as elementary school, middle school, or high school physical education teachers and coaches. Graduates with this degree may pursue a traditional Master of Science degree in physical education teacher certification and Class A certification. Graduates holding an M.S. in physical education teacher certification may pursue an Educational Specialist degree (Ed.S.) and Class AA certification in Physical Education.