Physical Education BA/BSc

Physical Education (PE) is the study of physical activity, movement, and sport, with a focus on promoting health, wellbeing, and lifelong participation. It combines elements of education, sport science, psychology, and pedagogy to understand how people learn and perform physical skills.

A Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education prepares students to teach and inspire others through physical activity. It blends theory and practice, covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and education methods. Many graduates go on to careers in teaching, coaching, or sport development.

Why Study Physical Education?

There are many reasons why students choose to study Physical Education:

• A passion for sport, exercise, and helping others lead healthy lives.

  
  

• The opportunity to combine science, teaching, and practical sport.

  
  

• Clear progression routes into teaching, coaching, and sport management.

  
  

• Strong emphasis on leadership, communication, and motivation.

  
  

• Practical learning through placements, workshops, and coaching sessions.

  
  

• High graduate employability in education and sport sectors.

This degree suits students who are energetic, motivated, and interested in how physical activity supports health, learning, and performance.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BA or BSc in Physical Education typically takes three years of full-time study, or four years with a placement year, foundation year, or study abroad option.

A typical course structure includes:

Year 1: Introduction to physical education, human movement, and sport science. Students explore anatomy, physiology, and the foundations of teaching and coaching.

Year 2: Intermediate modules in sport psychology, pedagogy, and skill acquisition. Students develop teaching and leadership techniques through practical experience.

Year 3: Advanced study in physical education practice, curriculum design, and research methods. The final year includes a dissertation or applied project in education, health, or sport performance.

Most programmes include placements in schools, sports clubs, or community settings to provide hands-on experience.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary between universities but typically include one of the following:

• A Levels: In Physical Education, Biology, Psychology, or Sociology.

  
  

• BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Sport, Sport and Exercise Science, or Health and Social Care.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Including Sport, Exercise and Health Science or Biology.

  
  

• Other qualifications: Access to Higher Education Diploma in Sport, Education, or Science.

  
  

• English language proficiency: Required for applicants whose first language is not English.

  
  

• Experience in coaching, sport participation, or working with young people is often desirable.

Teaching and Assessment

Physical Education degrees combine theory, research, and practical teaching experience. Students learn through:

• Lectures and seminars

  
  

• Practical sport and activity sessions

  
  

• School or community placements

  
  

• Group projects and presentations

  
  

• Independent research and dissertation work

Assessment methods typically include:

• Coursework and reflective journals

  
  

• Practical teaching or coaching assessments

  
  

• Examinations and written reports

  
  

• Group projects and oral presentations

  
  

• A final dissertation or applied project

Some courses also allow students to gain coaching or teaching qualifications alongside their degree.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in Physical Education develops a blend of scientific, teaching, and leadership skills, including:

• Teaching and coaching techniques

  
  

• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics

  
  

• Lesson and curriculum planning

  
  

• Communication and motivation

  
  

• Teamwork and leadership

  
  

• Assessment and reflective practice

  
  

• Research and data analysis

  
  

• Health promotion and behaviour change

These skills are valuable across education, sport, and health-related professions.

Career Prospects

Graduates of Physical Education degrees are well-prepared for careers in teaching, sport, and health promotion.

Typical career paths include:

• Physical education teacher (with PGCE or QTS)

  
  

• Sports coach or instructor

  
  

• Sports development officer

  
  

• Health and wellbeing coordinator

  
  

• Fitness or performance consultant

  
  

• Youth worker or education officer

  
  

• Further study in teaching, sport science, or education leadership

Employers include schools, local authorities, sports organisations, community programmes, and fitness centres.

Tips for Prospective Students

• Develop experience through volunteering in schools, coaching, or youth sport.

  
  

• Stay physically active and familiar with a range of sports and physical activities.

  
  

• Build communication and organisational skills for teaching and leadership.

  
  

• Gain relevant coaching or first aid certifications.

  
  

• Join professional bodies such as the Association for Physical Education (afPE) or CIMSPA.

  
  

• Keep up to date with curriculum developments and sport education policy.

Course Variations

Universities offer a range of related and specialist degrees, including:

• Physical Education and Sport Coaching: Combining teaching and coaching development.

  
  

• Sport and Physical Education: Exploring both scientific and educational perspectives.

  
  

• Physical Activity and Health: Focusing on wellbeing and fitness promotion.

  
  

• Education Studies with Physical Education: Linking teaching theory with sport practice.

  
  

• Sport and Exercise Science: Emphasising performance and physiological analysis.

  
  

• Sport Development and Management: Connecting physical education with community and policy initiatives.

Recommended Wider Reading for Aspiring Physical Education Students

For those considering or beginning a degree in Physical Education, the following books and resources provide useful background and insight:

“Learning to Teach Physical Education” by Susan Capel and Margaret Whitehead – A key text for aspiring PE teachers.

“Physical Education: Essential Issues” by Ken Green and Ken Hardman – A comprehensive overview of PE theory and practice.

“Teaching Physical Education 5–11” by Richard Bailey – Practical guidance for primary education.

“Sport Pedagogy” by Kathleen Armour – Insight into teaching and learning in sport and PE.

Association for Physical Education (afPE) – Professional body supporting PE educators in the UK.

CIMSPA (Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity) – Information on professional standards and qualifications.

Sport England – Policy and funding resources for physical activity and education initiatives.