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College of Health and Human Sciences

Physical Education Teacher Education (BSEd)

Become a physically literate teacher and coach, trained in the best practices of physical education and wellness.

PETE students leading a physical education class

Our fully accredited Physical Education Teacher Education program is led by faculty recognized nationally and internationally for their scholarship, and deeply engaged in the local community — with local school districts, the YMCA, City of Memphis Parks and the Memphis Grizzlies. That network gives you research and service-learning opportunities, financial support and a wide range of career paths.

Quick facts about the PETE program.
Major Physical Education Teacher Education
Concentration Licensure
Degree Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd)
Licensure Physical education and health, K–12, State of Tennessee
Accreditation National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Degree sheet PETE degree sheet (subject to change)
Residency Teaching Degree Sheet Residency Degree Sheet

What You'll Study

Teaching is one of the most consequential professions society has, and preparing you to teach physical education and health, K–12, is a primary goal of the College of Health and Human Sciences. You will complete courses in general education, professional education and physical education, including specialized coursework in the foundations of physical education, skill development and teaching methods.

Throughout your undergraduate years you will engage in clinical experiences with some of the finest teachers in local schools, culminating in a full-year residency during your senior year.

Ready2Teach Residency

The Ready2Teach residency is a full-year student teaching experience that begins on the first day of the school year. Because it mirrors an authentic school year from start to finish, you graduate having already run a classroom rather than having visited one.

Post-Grad + Careers

Graduate study

Graduates are well prepared to attend graduate school in:

  • Physical Education Teacher Education (K–12)
  • Health Education (K–12)
  • Community-based youth serving agencies

Plan early. Work with the academic services coordinator, the pre-health professional advisor, faculty mentors and your college or school of interest to confirm the prerequisite courses required for graduate admission.

Employment

Graduates teach at the elementary, middle, junior high and high school levels, and work with community agencies such as YMCAs, fitness centers, camps and sport-related businesses. You will also be prepared for:

Corporate wellnessHealth club facility managementPersonal trainingGroup fitness instructionFitness and wellness coachingStrength and conditioning coaching

PETE Majors Club

The PETE Club exists to help you finish your degree and build your professional network. Members get:

  • Support taking the steps needed to complete your degree
  • Praxis II study groups
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Connections with other PETE students through your studies, student teaching and career
  • Opportunities to attend TAHPERD and SHAPE state and national conferences
  • Leadership experience as a club officer

Contact faculty advisor Becky Bocz to join.

Meet the faculty Join the PETE Club

Dr. Todd Layne

For more information

Dr. Todd Layne, Program Coordinator
telayne@memphis.edu