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Physical Education Degrees in North Dakota

The educational system of North Dakota relies on teachers of all specialties and backgrounds to provide students with a thorough, well-rounded education. While physical education lost time in schools for several years, the connection between physical activity and academic performance is now clear.

By teaching North Dakota students how to play sports, stay fit, and eat healthy food, you can create a generation of healthy North Dakota residents. It all starts with a degree in physical education.

Role of Educators with a Physical Education Degree in North Dakota

As you learn how to become a PE teacher in ND, you can discover the role that PE teachers play in local schools and how they improve students’ lives.

Find the right physical education degree for you by contacting North Dakota programs below.

Becoming involved with local gym teachers can help you make the most of your education and shorten the learning curve. Since 1928, the North Dakota Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance has represented gym teachers throughout the state. Their goal is to help the children of North Dakota by providing support and resources to North Dakota educators.

 This can help you stay on top of changing education requirements, such as the new PE requirements introduced in North Dakota in 2015 (Grand Forks Herald, 2016). The new standards cover a general knowledge of physical activity and sports.

With demand for teachers increasing throughout the state, this is the time to learn how to become a PE teacher. Get in touch with teaching programs near you to explore your options.

Getting Your Physical Education Degree in North Dakota

There are several paths that you can take to become a licensed teacher in North Dakota. If you have already earned your first Bachelor’s degree, you can look into alternative certification programs, a second Bachelor’s degree, or a Master’s degree.

Bachelor’s degree programs are the most widely available option in North Dakota, allowing new students to get a thorough education at several state schools.

Bachelor’s-level programs require between 120 and 135 credits. Most schools require students to attend school full-time, due to the in-depth nature of teaching programs. For most students, this works out to four to five years of full-time study. Those who opt for additional certifications on their license may need more credits.

Physical education programs in North Dakota help you achieve several learning outcomes. Many of these goals are focused on achievement in physical activities, a commitment to fitness, an extensive knowledge of teaching research and theories, and the ability to smoothly transition between grade levels and sports.

To meet these goals, you may work through a rigorous curriculum of classes, like those listed below.

North Dakota Physical Education Courses

  • Principles of Conditioning
  • Adapted Physical Education
  • Motor Learning and Performance
  • Curriculum, Standards, and Assessment in Physical Education
  • Professional Preparation in Elementary School Activities
  • Professional Preparation in Middle School Activities
  • Professional Preparation in High School Activities
  • Methods of Coaching
  • Fitness Education Activities and Materials
  • Classroom Management
  • Instructional Planning and Methods

 North Dakota physical education programs are built around the National Standards Guidelines for Physical Education Teacher Education, which are used in schools throughout the country. Practical experience is an essential component in these standards, so you may complete rotations at multiple area schools by the time you graduate. This culminates with a student teaching assignment.

Since PE teachers are licensed to work with all grades, you may work with several grade levels during your semester of student teaching. Plan on keeping full-time teaching hours during this semester, since you must take over full teaching duties partway through the semester. The references and feedback you get as a student teacher can significantly impact your career.

When you are done with your PE teacher training, you can apply for your license through the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board. You must pass the physical education Praxis II exam, submit proof of your education and training hours, and pass a background check before you qualify for a license.

Working with a Physical Education Degree in North Dakota

When you’re ready to jump into life as a gym teacher, you should know the basic skills needed in elementary, middle, and high school gym classes. You can use your training to motivate students, encourage a love of physical activity, and give students plenty of exposure to sports.

Your income potential and job outlook may depend on which grades you teach. Currently, elementary school teachers in North Dakota earn an average of $47,110 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016). The average annual income for a secondary school teacher is $48,410 (BLS, 2016).

The future of teaching is bright in North Dakota. Between 2014 and 2024, O*Net anticipates a 10% jump in job openings for elementary school teachers (2016). During this time frame, demand for secondary school teachers may increase 11% (O*Net, 2016).

A career that you love can make you feel fulfilled, strengthen the education system of North Dakota, and make an impact on students’ lives.

Check out degree options below and get in touch with schools near you.