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Physical Education Impact

Physical Education

The Bachelor of Arts in Education (B.A.) program with a concentration in physical education is a specialized program that leads to a PreK-Adult teaching certification. The physical education program is designed to prepare teacher candidates with the interdisciplinary knowledge to teach, motivate, and facilitate skillful movement, physical activity, and fitness in school, wellness, and sport-based environments. The curriculum directly aligns with the West Virginia Standards for teachers and the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) National Standards for beginning teachers. Our program’s small class sizes allow teacher candidates to gain hands-on, real world learning experiences, and develop strong relationships with peers and faculty.

Real-World Experience

Physical education majors apply the knowledge learned in the classroom through participation in practical experiences in public schools. Physical education undergraduates begin working with students in local schools during their first year, and continue to do so throughout their four-years, culminating in a semester-long student-teaching experience.

National Recognition

The Fairmont State undergraduate physical education program is nationally accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)/Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and SHAPE America.

Career Paths

The B.A. program with a concentration in physical education prepares students for careers in a variety of physical education, administration, sport, physical activity and fitness-related settings. Employment opportunities include, but are not limited to:

  • Physical Education Teacher
  • Adapted Physical Education Teacher
  • Fitness and Wellness Coordinator
  • Fitness Center Employee/Specialist
  • Health and Wellness Coaches
  • Physical Fitness Trainer
  • Physical Activity Consultant
  • Physical Activity Director
  • Recreation and Fitness Studies Teacher
  • State or District Health/Physical Education Curriculum Specialist

Mission

The mission of the Physical Education program at Fairmont State University is to produce highly skilled, physically literate practitioners who are dedicated to promoting healthful physical activity across the lifespan, through culturally inclusive and innovative instructional practices.

Career Outlook

The career outlook for teachers (including physical education and health teachers) ranges from good to excellent. Examples of physical education and related jobs include, but are not limited to:

Career *Job Growth *U.S. Median Salary
Adapted Physical Education Specialist 14% $53,860
Fitness & Wellness Coordinator 14% $78,210
Physical Fitness Trainer 14% $38,160
Elementary Physical Education Teacher 5-9% $55,800
Middle School Physical Education Teacher 5-9% $56,720
Recreation & Fitness Studies Teacher 14% $59,180

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Contact

Dr. Kristi Kiefer

Kristi Kiefer

Program Coordinator, Professor of Physical Education
 309 Colebank
 304-367-4662
 Kristi.Kiefer@fairmontstate.edu