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Majoring in Physical Education
With a degree in Physical Education, you’ll go on to teach and coach students in grades pre-kindergarten through 12.
Classes for Physical Education Majors
This Physical Education degree program, accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, will prepare you for initial certification in New York State pre-K through 12th grade Physical Education.
You will learn how to effectively instruct and assess in Physical Education and best practices in coaching for youth and scholastic sports.
In the third and fourth years, our program utilizes a Professional Development School model, where faculty work with public school partners to prepare future teachers.
Students gain clinical experience during methods courses to train as teachers and to build a professional network.
Program Distinctions
You’ll gain hands-on experience early on within this program through field experiences and culminating with student-teaching placements — and in doing so, network with area school district administrators, coaches and physical educators.
Small class sizes ensure that you’re not just a number.
This program also puts an emphasis on adapted physical education, with eight credits earned from this area. This emphasizes the growing need of inclusive practices within schools.
Pathway Programs
Sage maintains an articulation agreement with Hudson Valley Community College to simplify enrollment for students in HVCC’s associate degree program in Physical Education.
Another partnership between Sage and East Greenbush Central School District allows students in grades 9-12 to earn up to 30 college credits. Graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Childhood Education or Physical Education from Russell Sage College in just three years, saving time and money.
“We offer Physical Education majors the opportunity to learn from a board-certified behavior analyst, which gives you that extra edge …”
Peter Stapleton, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Education
Student Spotlights
Careers with a Physical Education Degree
Physical Education majors go on to teach PE and coach sports in schools and private clubs in New York and surrounding states. They have also become athletics directors, district superintendents and personal trainers.
Alumni Spotlights
A degree in Physical Education prepared these Sage graduates for success.
Graduate Studies with a Physical Education Degree
Russell Sage College’s M.S. in School Health Education is the next step for many Physical Education majors and a pathway to professional licensure.
Have questions?
Assistant Professor, Department Chair, and Director, Center for Teaching and Learning