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 both an educator and a leader in exercise science. You’ll work closely with expert faculty from our Exercise & Sport Science and Education departments, complete a yearlong student teaching internship, and graduate prepared to earn your Colorado K-12 Physical Education teaching license.

Outside the classroom, you’ll gain valuable experience working with local youth and educators through partnerships with area schools and the Gunnison Recreation Center. For students interested in teaching physical activity without pursuing licensure, the Physical Education minor offers a flexible path to develop your instructional skills in health and movement—without the internship or certification requirements.

K-12 Physical Education Requirements

A major emphasis dives deeper into a specific interest within your major. It allows you to focus on a particular area of study, replacing the need for a separate minor. By tailoring your coursework, a major emphasis equips you with specialized knowledge and skills to better prepare you for career opportunities or advanced studies in your chosen field.

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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