Students in the PETE program learn to use and integrate technology into their class work, gain hands-on, real-world experience and learn how to design and deliver physical education programs. Upon program completion, graduates are eligible for dual certification in Pre-K-adult Physical Education and 5-12 Health Education.

Program graduates are physical activity and wellness leaders in their schools, communities and states who promote healthy, active lifestyles for children and adults alike.

Graduates teach and coach in schools and colleges across the United States and around the world. Some teach in institutions that offer specialized programming for those with severe impairments and disabilities. Graduates also work in summer camps and resorts, health spas, hospitals, senior citizen centers and other places that offer physical education and physical activity programs. Some physical education teachers become interscholastic sport coaches (middle school and secondary school teams) or youth sport coaches for community-based programs.

With additional education and experience, physical education instructors can become school department heads or directors of physical education with school systems, counties or districts. Some physical education teachers become principals and school administrators. Physical education instructors with proven skills and a doctoral degree may become physical education teacher educators in colleges and universities. WVU offers master’s and doctoral degrees in Physical Education Teacher Education.

Commonly sought research focuses among alumni
  • Designing and implementing comprehensive school physical activity programs
  • Evidence based curricular and instructional models in physical education and sport
  • Physical activity programming for school-aged children with special needs
  • Instructional technology and its place in the gymnasium, classroom, and sports arena
  • Physical activity and youth sport