Movement Science Degree, Teacher of Physical Education (Elementary or Secondary) Concentration, B.S.

Westfield State Athletics students in discussion

Turn Your Passion for Fitness into a Teaching Career

If you're passionate about promoting health, fitness, and active lifestyles in schools, the Physical Education Teacher Concentration at Westfield State University offers a clear, rewarding path to teacher licensure in Massachusetts. This dynamic bachelor’s degree program prepares you to teach physical education at the elementary or secondary level, combining scientific knowledge with real-world teaching experience.

From your first semester, you’ll build a strong foundation in motor learning, kinesiology, exercise physiology, and nutrition, while developing culturally responsive teaching skills. Through interactive coursework and hands-on field placements, you’ll learn how to design inclusive PE lessons that motivate students of all abilities to move, grow, and succeed.

This nationally recognized program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) and approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). You’ll complete key licensure milestones including CPR certification, MTEL exam prep, and Intermediate and Advanced Standing, all supported by expert faculty mentors.

Whether you're teaching, planning curriculum, or measuring student growth, you’ll graduate prepared to lead engaging, standards-aligned physical education programs and inspire lifelong wellness in your students.

Program Highlights

  • Study science, teaching methods, and curriculum planning
  • Build confidence with courses like strength training, games, and aquatics
  • Includes hands-on practicum in elementary or secondary schools
  • Guided licensure path with faculty support and professional development

Take the Next Step Toward Becoming a Licensed PE Teacher

Apply today to Westfield State’s Physical Education Teacher Concentration and start building a career that inspires movement, health, and lifelong learning.

Shape Healthy Futures Through Teaching

  • Group of Movement Science students smiling at the undergraduate research conference.

    Licensure-Driven Curriculum

    Our program is fully aligned with Massachusetts teacher licensure standards, integrating required coursework and field experiences that prepare you for the MTEL exams and success in real classroom environments.

  • Movement Science instructor guiding students during a physical education class in the gym.

    Faculty Mentorship and Support

    From your first semester through graduation, you’ll receive personalized guidance from dedicated faculty mentors who help you navigate licensure requirements, build your teaching skills, and grow professionally.

  • A college student helping children play with a colorful parachute during a Physical Education Day event.

    Commitment to Inclusive Teaching

    Gain the tools to support all learners through courses in adapted physical education and multicultural education. You’ll learn to design inclusive, culturally responsive PE lessons that meet the needs of diverse student populations.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Students will understand and demonstrate cultural competence.
  • Students will understand the need for and will demonstrate proficiency in written and oral communications and be able to utilize different forms of current technology.
  • Students will use reflective practices to plan, implement and evaluate program, personal, community and professional goals.
  • Students will demonstrate an ability to explain the relevance of scientific and theoretical knowledge appropriate to his/her chosen field of study to everyday problems.
  • Students will utilize critical inquiry to advance knowledge and apply that knowledge to practice.
  • Students will understand the importance of and will engage in professional behaviors including pursuit of appropriate credentials.
  • Students will understand the role of Physical Activity in the Health and Wellness of individuals across the lifespan.
  • Students will value and participate in Civic Engagement.

What Can You Do with a B.S. in Movement Science, Teacher of Physical Education (Elementary or Secondary) Concentration?

With a B.S. in Movement Science, Teacher of Physical Education (Elementary or Secondary) Concentration from Westfield State University, you’ll be qualified for a range of careers focused on teaching, coaching, and promoting physical health and education in school and community settings. Here's what you can do with this degree:

  • Physical Education Teacher (K–12)
  • Health and Wellness Educator
  • School Athletics Coach
  • Community Recreation Leader
  • Graduate Student in Education or Exercise Science
Physical education student smiling while seated on bleachers with classmates.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Requirements for Physical Education Concentration

The Westfield State University program for licensure for teachers of Physical Education has received national recognition from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) and Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Physical Education Core Requirements (27 credits)

Required Course List (44 credits)

Skills Courses (2-6 credits)

Select two of the following skills courses:

Professional Development Procedures

Physical Education students have to meet Intermediate and Advanced Standings in order to progress through their field of study. The Physical Education requirements for these standings are different than other Movement Science concentrations.

Intermediate Standing

Requirements for Intermediate Standing to progress through the Physical Education program:

  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the following courses:
  • MOVP 0100 - Science of Physical Activity and Health
  • MOVP 0194 - Musculoskeletal Structure and Function
  •  Additional Requirements (specific to Physical Education concentration):Evidence of met/passed state and national competencies (signed/verified log of observation hours, skill assessment scores, Gateway Assessment lesson plans, teaching evaluations, reflections) and MTEL scores in Communication and Literacy (001). Student Acknowledgement Form/Advisement Form Copy of Degree Evaluation (2.5 minimum GPA in MOVP 0100 and MOVP 0194) Current First Aid / CPR certification card Two (2) faculty recommendations Writing sample from ENGL 0101, graded B- or higher Earn a minimum of 12 Professional Development Points across four (4) different areas (Academic, Clinical, Professional, Social Justice; 3 from each area)

Advanced Standing

Student progress towards meeting Advanced Standing in Teacher Education is monitored at the end of the sophomore year (min. 54 credits earned). All students must meet the requirements for Advanced Standing to achieve teacher candidacy. For more information about requirements, see Licensure for Teaching  found in the Academic Policies page.

Advanced Standing is required for completing an internship, ATEP clinical experience, or student teaching practicum. The requirements are as follows:

  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the Major Core area (27 credits)
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 in Physical Education Certification courses, and a minimum GPA of 2.7 in the PE concentration
  • Minimum overall GPA of 2.8
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume
  • First Aid / CPR Certification
  • Membership in a professional organization
  • Earn a minimum of 16 Professional Development Points across four (4) different areas (Academic, Clinical, Professional, Social Justice; 4 in each area)
  • Three (3) faculty recommendations and two (2) additional recommendations from outside the department
  • Evidence of met/passed state and national competencies (signed/verification log of observation hours, skill assessment scores, Gateway Assignments, lesson plan scores, fitness assessments, passed licensure exam scores for reading, writing, and Physical Education)

Additional information can be found in the SMHP Department manual.

Practicum Eligibility

Students must satisfy the following requirements prior to practicum placement:

  1. Overall GPA of 2.8
  2. GPA of 3.0 in PE Certification courses, and a 2.7 GPA in the PE concentration
  3. SMHP Advanced Standing Status
  4. A minimum grade of B- (2.7) in MOVP 0314 - Physical Education Teaching Methodology: Elementary and Secondary 
  5. Passing scores on all required licensure exams (example: Reading, Writing, and Physical Education MTELs)
  6. Evidence of meeting/passing state and national competencies (verified/signed observation logs, skills assessments, Gateway Assessments, lesson planning assessments, fitness assessments, passing licensure examination)
Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a welcoming campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 17:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    Of students receive financial aid

     

  • 700+

    Internship opportunities

Personalized Attention from Dedicated Faculty

At our institution, faculty members hold advanced degrees in the subjects they teach. Imagine a learning environment where personalized attention is not just a promise but a reality. Your professors are not just educators; they are mentors committed to expanding your horizons. Through a blend of dynamic coursework and hands-on projects, we're dedicated to not just teaching but elevating your knowledge and skills.

Athletic training faculty member wearing blue long sleeve shirt in gym

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more.

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Movement Science Degree, Teacher of Physical Education (Elementary or Secondary) Concentration, B.S.