K-12 Physical Education

A female student uses a rower machine inside the Mountaineer Field House on campus.

Part of: Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science Department, Education Department

Offered as: Minor, Education Licensure, Major Emphasis

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science

Licensure: K-12 Licensure

Related Areas of Study: K-12 Physical Education Licensure with MA in Education

Part of: Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science Department, Education Department

Offered as: Minor, Education Licensure, Major Emphasis

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science

Licensure: K-12 Licensure

Related Areas of Study: K-12 Physical Education Licensure with MA in Education

If you’re passionate about inspiring health, movement, and lifelong wellness in students, Western’s K-12 Physical Education emphasis is built for you. This dynamic program blends research-backed teaching strategies with hands-on experience to help you grow as a leader in physical education and exercise science. You’ll work closely with expert faculty from our Exercise & Sport Science and Education departments and gain practical experience working with youth and educators in real-world settings.

Students can choose to complete the emphasis with or without the K-12 teaching licensure track, depending on their career goals. Those pursuing licensure complete the required EDUC coursework and a yearlong student teaching internship, preparing them to earn their Colorado K-12 Physical Education teaching license. Students who choose the non-licensure option focus on physical education, movement instruction, and youth development without the additional licensure and internship requirements.

Outside the classroom, you’ll gain valuable experience through partnerships with local schools and the Gunnison Recreation Center, giving you opportunities to work directly with youth and community members while building practical instructional skills.

Experiential Education

Education – Residency

Students gain real-world experience through student teaching, building connections and making an impact in the community.
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RESS – Community Engagement

Students promote wellness by collaborating with community members on fitness initiatives that inspire active lifestyles.
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K-12 Physical Education Requirements

This pathway is intended for students who are interested in physical education, coaching, youth development, or related fields but do not plan to pursue K-12 teacher licensure. Students complete core coursework in the emphasis without the additional EDUC licensure requirements, allowing for more flexibility in electives and career pathways.

Program requirements and Degree plan will be coming soon.

This pathway is designed for students who want to become licensed K-12 Physical Education teachers. In addition to coursework in Exercise & Sport Science, students complete the required EDUC licensure courses that prepare them for teacher licensure and working in K-12 schools.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

A minor complements your major by allowing you to explore a secondary field of interest. It requires fewer courses than a major, making it a flexible way to broaden your knowledge, diversify your skills, or pursue a personal passion alongside your primary area of study.

Program Requirements

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

Start with the General Application—it will match you with eligible scholarships. You’ll be notified if any department-specific materials are needed.

General Application

General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

Explore Scholarships

Adapted Physical Education

Coaching & Leadership

Communication & Collaboration

Conflict Resolution & Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Health & Wellness Education

Lifesaving & First Aid Certification

Technology Integration

Adaptive Physical Education Specialist
Coach & Scout
Exercise Trainer
Fitness & Wellness Coordinator
K-12 Physical Education Teacher
Sports Programming Planner

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