Central Washington University (CWU) offers an online Master of Science in Health and Physical Education degree. Students complete course requirements and then choose the six-hour thesis, project, or examination option. The 47-credit program provides instruction in skills-based health education, instructional models in physical education, pedagogical design and analysis in physical
Best Online Master's in Physical Education
A master’s in physical education will prepare students for a career teaching others about the lifelong benefits of physical activity in schools, fitness centers, and other group fitness settings. Graduates of online master’s in physical education programs will be prepared to enter the workforce in engaging, hands-on positions.
Proper accreditation is critical for physical education students looking to teach. The main accrediting body for teaching programs is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Read more about the importance of program accreditation and discover the best master's in physical education degrees, careers and specializations below.
Online Master’s in Physical Education with the Highest Return on Investment

The return on investment (ROI) among schools offering top online master’s degrees in physical education ranges from $288,200 to $533,400. Our ROI calculations represent the estimated 10-year earnings of alumni and factor in student debt. These rankings can be used by students to determine which programs may be most profitable in the future. The top school on this list, Central Washington University, has an estimated return of investment that is $129,300 higher than the national average across all online and in-person programs.
ROI amounts are based on data reported by the U.S. Department of Education. Tuitions are manually researched in order to determine tuition amounts specific to online degrees. Read our methodology for more details.
Rank | School | Annual Tuition | Median Starting Salary | Median Debt | 10-year ROI |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Central Washington University | $23,007 | $54,153 | $19,333 | $533,400 | |
Ohio University-Main Campus | $9,432 | $50,995 | $37,000 | $478,900 | |
University of South Florida Online | $11,586 | $49,214 | $30,450 | $468,700 | |
University of Central Missouri | $6,279 | $48,041 | $23,528 | $465,300 | |
Georgia Southern University | $11,098 | $46,846 | $20,544 | $456,700 | |
Canisius College | $20,160 | $47,729 | $29,581 | $454,500 | |
University of Northern Colorado | $9,435 | $44,542 | $30,770 | $420,200 | |
Tennessee Tech University | $11,730 | $41,937 | $17,000 | $410,600 | |
Illinois State University | $14,251 | $42,073 | $19,125 | $409,300 | |
Jackson State University | $8,316 | $44,189 | $41,149 | $403,700 | |
Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville | $4,561 | $41,464 | $18,680 | $403,600 | |
Northwest Missouri State University | $9,960 | $40,647 | $13,667 | $401,400 | |
University of South Carolina-Columbia | $29,760 | $42,682 | $30,750 | $401,100 | |
SUNY College at Cortland | $28,890 | $41,193 | $23,000 | $395,400 | |
East Carolina University | $15,792 | $41,406 | $26,250 | $393,600 | |
Michigan State University | $13,462 | $40,551 | $31,021 | $378,800 | |
Georgia State University | $22,662 | $40,728 | $32,899 | $378,300 | |
Liberty University | $13,560 | $38,937 | $28,175 | $365,800 | |
Jacksonville State University | $8,400 | $38,721 | $32,144 | $358,600 | |
University of Memphis | $9,705 | $38,289 | $29,376 | $357,600 | |
Auburn University at Montgomery | $8,330 | $36,132 | $35,684 | $327,500 | |
East Tennessee State University | $13,518 | $31,374 | $27,911 | $288,200 |
Best Master's Degrees in Physical Education Rankings Details
#1
Central Washington University
- 10-Year ROI: $533,400
- Median Salary: $54,153
- Annual Tuition: $23,007
- Median Debt: $19,333
#2
Ohio University-Main Campus
- 10-Year ROI: $478,900
- Median Salary: $50,995
- Annual Tuition: $9,432
- Median Debt: $37,000
The online Master of Science in Coaching Education degree from Ohio University-Main Campus is designed around national coaching standards and focuses on how coaching impacts athletic performance. The 30-credit, part-time program is delivered over five semesters and can be complete in less than two years. The curriculum includes courses in the foundations of coaching, management
#3
University of South Florida Online
- 10-Year ROI: $468,700
- Median Salary: $49,214
- Annual Tuition: $11,586
- Median Debt: $30,450
The online Master of Arts in Physical Education at the University of South Florida (USF) provides advanced instruction to individuals who wish to instill a love of sports and activity in young people. This 30-credit online physical education degree program is suited for experienced educators as well as those who want to pursue advanced studies in the theories and practices of modern-day
#4
University of Central Missouri
- 10-Year ROI: $465,300
- Median Salary: $48,041
- Annual Tuition: $6,279
- Median Debt: $23,528
The online Master of Science in Physical Education from the University of Central Missouri provides students with advanced physical education techniques and practical applications. With a pedagogy option and a coaching option, students in the 30 credit-hour graduate degree program can emphasize one of the two particular curriculum tracks focusing on teaching or coaching with courses
#5
Georgia Southern University
- 10-Year ROI: $456,700
- Median Salary: $46,846
- Annual Tuition: $11,098
- Median Debt: $20,544
The online Master of Arts in Teaching - Health and Physical Education from Georgia Southern University (GSU) provides students with advanced physical education pedagogy. Graduates will be eligible for Georgia's T-5 Health and Physical Education Certification for preschool to 12th grade. The 36-credit curriculum includes courses in educational research, physical education methods,
#6
Canisius College
- 10-Year ROI: $454,500
- Median Salary: $47,729
- Annual Tuition: $20,160
- Median Debt: $29,581
The online Master of Science in Physical Education from Canisius College allows students to research the newest trends, studies, and discoveries in education and physical fitness pedagogies. The professional certification track is meant for students interested in careers as New York state school physical education teachers. The athletics track is designed for those living outside
#7
University of Northern Colorado
- 10-Year ROI: $420,200
- Median Salary: $44,542
- Annual Tuition: $9,435
- Median Debt: $30,770
The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) offers the 30-credit hour online Master of Arts (MAT) in Teaching Physical Education and Physical Activity Leadership degree. The program is designed for full-time teachers and can be completed in 18 months. The curriculum focuses on physical activity leadership for classrooms and school programming. Students will learn how to design physical
#8
Tennessee Tech University
- 10-Year ROI: $410,600
- Median Salary: $41,937
- Annual Tuition: $11,730
- Median Debt: $17,000
Tennessee Tech University offers an online Master of Arts in Exercise Science degree, with five concentrations, including Elementary and Middle School Physical Education. This 30-credit program consists of core courses, research courses, electives, and required concentration courses. Class titles include Curriculum Design in Physical Education, Instructional Strategies for Physical
#9
Illinois State University
- 10-Year ROI: $409,300
- Median Salary: $42,073
- Annual Tuition: $14,251
- Median Debt: $19,125
The online Master of Science in Kinesiology & Recreation - Physical Education Pedagogy Sequence degree from Illinois State University gives students an enhanced understanding of the skills and techniques needed to teach K-12 physical education. The 33-credit program is designed for certificated teachers. Students take classes titled Measurement and Evaluation, Instruction in Physical
#10
Jackson State University
- 10-Year ROI: $403,700
- Median Salary: $44,189
- Annual Tuition: $8,316
- Median Debt: $41,149
The online Master of Science in Physical Education from Jackson State University provides students with advanced coursework in education, sports science, and teaching concepts. The 42-credit degree has three focuses: nutrition, human performance, and teacher education. This program is designed for teachers who already have Class B teacher certification, and completion can lead to
#11
Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville
- 10-Year ROI: $403,600
- Median Salary: $41,464
- Annual Tuition: $4,561
- Median Debt: $18,680
The online Master of Science in Education in Kinesiology - Physical Education and Coaching Pedagogy from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville provides students with advanced knowledge in physical education theory and practice. Students are prepared for careers as health and physical education instructors. This 30-credit hour program includes courses like physiology, sports
#12
Northwest Missouri State University
- 10-Year ROI: $401,400
- Median Salary: $40,647
- Annual Tuition: $9,960
- Median Debt: $13,667
The online Master of Science in Health and Physical Education at Northwest Missouri State University consists of 30-credit hours of courses that emphasize contemporary physical education teaching approaches. Students learn instructional practices that include health models backed by the latest research. Students complete a thesis or research project to graduate. The program can
#13
University of South Carolina-Columbia
- 10-Year ROI: $401,100
- Median Salary: $42,682
- Annual Tuition: $29,760
- Median Debt: $30,750
The online Master of Science in Adapted Physical Education at the University of South Carolina – Columbia (USC) is designed to instruct PE teachers how to support all students, with and without disabilities, in a physical education setting. The 30-credit online physical education program is offered in an eight-week format and includes classes such as Theories and Principles of Motor
#14
SUNY College at Cortland
- 10-Year ROI: $395,400
- Median Salary: $41,193
- Annual Tuition: $28,890
- Median Debt: $23,000
The online Master of Science in Education in Physical Education Leadership at SUNY College Cortland is designed to prepare candidates for employment in K-12 physical education programs throughout the nation. This online physical education degree program is available on a full-time or part-time basis and focuses on pedagogy and best practices for inspiring young people to live active
#15
East Carolina University
- 10-Year ROI: $393,600
- Median Salary: $41,406
- Annual Tuition: $15,792
- Median Debt: $26,250
The online Master of Arts in Education - Physical Education from East Carolina University offers two concentration options: adapted physical education or physical education pedagogy. The program gives students advanced level understanding of physical education concepts, qualifying graduates for an increased salary level for those employed by a North Carolina school district. The
#16
Michigan State University
- 10-Year ROI: $378,800
- Median Salary: $40,551
- Annual Tuition: $13,462
- Median Debt: $31,021
The online Master of Arts in Education - Sport Coaching and Leadership at Michigan State University covers advanced physical education pedagogy, sports leadership, and coaching. The 30-credit program is designed for students planning to work in schools or community sports programs. Students take courses specifically focused on coaching: Psychosocial Behavior, Youth Development,
#17
Georgia State University
- 10-Year ROI: $378,300
- Median Salary: $40,728
- Annual Tuition: $22,662
- Median Debt: $32,899
The online Master of Education in Health and Physical Education degree from Georgia State University provides advanced skills for current physical education teachers seeking career advancement. The 36 semester hour degree includes courses in leadership, curriculum development, program administration, and health sciences organization.
Georgia State University online students can access
#18
Liberty University
- 10-Year ROI: $365,800
- Median Salary: $38,937
- Annual Tuition: $13,560
- Median Debt: $28,175
Liberty University offers a fully online Master of Science in Sport Management degree with concentrations in coaching and athletic administration, outdoor adventure sport, and sports administration. Each of these programs is available as a thesis or non-thesis option. The 30-credit degree is accredited by the Commission on Sport Management. Students learn how to train athletes,
#19
Jacksonville State University
- 10-Year ROI: $358,600
- Median Salary: $38,721
- Annual Tuition: $8,400
- Median Debt: $32,144
The online Master of Science in Physical Education from Jacksonville State University provides students with advanced coursework in education, sports science, and teaching concepts. The degree has three concentrations: nutrition, human performance, and teacher education. This 42 credit hour degree is available to teachers who already have Class B teacher certification, and completion
#20
University of Memphis
- 10-Year ROI: $357,600
- Median Salary: $38,289
- Annual Tuition: $9,705
- Median Debt: $29,376
The University of Memphis (UofM) offers an online Master of Science in Health Studies - Physical Education Teacher Education. This program covers theories, methods, and research practices in physical education. The 33-credit program requires a six-credit research project or thesis that is completed under the guidance of a faculty member. The curriculum includes classes such as Research
#21
Auburn University at Montgomery
- 10-Year ROI: $327,500
- Median Salary: $36,132
- Annual Tuition: $8,330
- Median Debt: $35,684
Auburn University at Montgomery offers an online Master of Education in Physical Education Teacher degree. Students enrolled in the 33 to 37-credit hour program complete courses in computer-based instructional technologies, research methods, advanced educational psychology, and the historical and philosophical foundations of education. Students complete a required practicum and
#22
East Tennessee State University
- 10-Year ROI: $288,200
- Median Salary: $31,374
- Annual Tuition: $13,518
- Median Debt: $27,911
The online Master of Science in Sport Science and Coach Education - Strength and Conditioning at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) prepares students for careers in coaching, sports science, or physical education. The program is integrated with ETSU's Center of Excellence for Sport Science and Coach Education so students can be involved in hands-on experiences like coach clinics
What can you do with a master's in physical education degree?
With a master’s degree in physical education, possible career paths include teaching physical education, coaching, and scouting. Teachers can be employed in a K-12 grade setting or at a university teaching health and physical fitness. A teaching certification is required to teach in a public school. Coaches and scouts can work for teams or individual athletes. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019, the median annual salary of kindergarten and elementary school teachers was $59,420. Middle school teachers earned $59,660 a year, while high school teachers earned an annual salary of $61,660. By contrast, coaches and scouts earned a median salary of $34,840.
Teacher employment is expected to grow 3-4 percent through 2028 and 11 percent for coaches and scouts during this same period. Other career opportunities could involve working in recreational sports settings, community outreach programs, and fitness centers.
Online Master's in Physical Education Degree Overview
Graduate-level physical education degrees include Master of Arts, Master of Science, and Master of Education programs. Master of Arts programs focus on artistic and social aspects of health and wellness, such as dance theory or community programs, while Master of Science programs focus more on the scientific aspects of health and wellness, such as anatomy and physiology. Master of Education programs focus on providing advanced teaching methods to prepare graduates to become skilled educators.
Program Requirements
Students who are interested in pursuing a career in athletics as a teacher, personal trainer, or coach should consider a master's degree in physical education. Admission requirements will vary depending on the program; some programs require a bachelor’s degree in education, physical education, or a related field such as kinesiology or athletic training, while others simply require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. Other program requirements may include a minimum GPA, GRE or other test scores, letters of recommendation, or a background in teaching. Most online programs require 30–36 credits, which can be completed in one to two and a half years.
Curriculum
The curriculum for a physical education program will also vary depending upon the focus but may cover health and wellness, teaching methods, curriculum development, physical education assessments, social psychology, or controversial health issues. Programs may include courses such as Motor Learning, Risk Management in Physical Education and Athletics, Sport Psychology, and Statistics in Education and Health Professions. Students may be required to complete some type of final research project, and students in teaching programs may be required to complete fieldwork in the classroom.
How to Choose a Program
When looking for an online master’s in physical education program, it is important to consider program and school accreditation, class flexibility, the variety of credits offered, fieldwork or on-site requirements, and support and resources available for graduates. The ability to tailor credits to fulfill your specific career aspirations, such as a focus on sports management or coaching, can also be an important factor in choosing a program.
Students should also ensure they have a plan for completing any required fieldwork or student teaching, and that it can be done at a convenient location. Alumni networks and career services offered through the school can also benefit graduates interested in networking or finding assistance with job placement.
The Importance of Accreditation for Master's in Physical Education Programs
Accreditation is a thorough and ongoing review that signals to schools, students, professionals, and employers that a program meets universal standards of quality. Students who attend accredited programs are more likely to be eligible for scholarships, grants, federal student aid, licensure, certification, and to transfer credits or continue their education.
Students should pursue programs with national or regional accreditation to ensure their credentials will be considered legitimate in their chosen field. While institutions seek accreditation as a whole, there are organizations that grant accreditation to specific programs as well.
Students looking to pursue a career as a physical education teacher will need to check licensure requirements for their state. Some states simply require students to complete an accredited program, while some require programs to be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), formerly known as NCATE and TEAC.
Some programs were previously accredited by SHAPE America, formerly known as NASPE, which is no longer evaluating curriculums. The main accrediting body for physical education programs is now CAEP, but some program pages still have SHAPE or NASPE listed as a programmatic accreditor. These programs will remain accredited through CAEP until their status expires and they must renew accreditation.
Other physical education programmatic accreditors include the Commission on Sports Management Accreditation (COSMA) and the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). For students who would like to check that their program is accredited by a legitimate organization, a full list of approved accrediting bodies can be found here.
What kinds of master's in physical education specializations are available?
While most physical education programs prepare students to be PE teachers in the K-12 school system, there are a few concentrations for people to pursue particular interests. Seeking a specialized degree can uniquely prepare students for a career in their chosen field, and can differentiate them from other job candidates by their credentials and experience.
Adapted physical education: Teachers trained in adapted physical education specialize in inclusive curriculums and coaching methods for students with disabilities. This degree will prepare graduates to work in general and adapted physical education settings, such as elementary schools or with adapted sport teams. Programs will cover physical education and activities for students with disabilities, design and implementation of effective curriculums, and may include courses on development of motor skills or legal issues in special education.
Sport coaching: Coaching programs equip students with the skills necessary to meet the needs of school, community, and club sport teams. Graduates will be ready to enter the changing field of athletics with the experience needed to train teams and athletes. Coaches can work with professional teams or individual athletes, and may focus on specific sports such as football or basketball. Programs may cover coaching techniques, sport psychology, motor development, and creating healthy competitive environments.
Sport management/administration: Sport management programs are geared towards students interested in the business side of athletics. These programs prepare students for a wide range of positions in the sport industry. Graduates may pursue careers in sales, marketing, event management, or athletic administration, for example, and may work for college or professional sport teams. Coursework may include sports marketing and finance, public relations, social, cultural, and ethical aspects of sports, and legal issues in sports administration.
Curriculum development: Programs with an emphasis on leadership and the use of research to enhance teaching methods will prepare students to create effective physical education programs. While most physical education degrees include courses on curriculum development, some programs focus on how to conduct, interpret, and implement research to improve student learning. Courses will likely cover leadership, curriculum construction, research methods, and technology use in physical education.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I finance a master's in physical education program?
Students considering a master's in physical education program have access to a variety of resources to help them finance their degree. These resources include scholarships, grants, loans, and tuition reimbursement programs available through employers. The Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America) provides a list of available resources, including scholarships for health and wellness degrees.
Students pursuing a career as a teacher may be eligible to have a portion of their federal student loans forgiven under the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program or the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Eligibility for these programs depends on the type of student loan you have and your employment after graduation. There are also many state-sponsored loan forgiveness programs for teachers. The American Federation of Teachers offers a tool to search for loan forgiveness and funding programs here.
How should I choose a program?
When looking for an online master’s in physical education program, it is important to consider program and school accreditation, class flexibility, the variety of credits offered, fieldwork or on-site requirements, and support and resources available for graduates. The ability to tailor credits to fulfill your specific career aspirations, such as a focus on sports management or coaching, can also be an important factor in choosing a program. Students should also ensure they have a plan for completing any required fieldwork or student teaching, and that it can be done at a convenient location. Alumni networks and career services offered through the school can also benefit graduates interested in networking or finding assistance with job placement.
What professional industry associations are available for physical educators?
Joining a professional network can benefit students while in school and long past graduation. Professional associations allow students to make connections, provide opportunities for career development, and can help ease the transition from program to employment. Many of these organizations offer discounted student membership prices and can help students develop additional skills, knowledge, and professional contacts to achieve their career goals.
American Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America): SHAPE America is a leading national organization that actively promotes quality physical education from preschool to university levels. Their K-12 PE standards are used in school districts across the United States to shape curriculums. They provide members with educational resources, tools, and programs for educators to better meet the unique needs of students in physical education.
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM): The American College of Sports Medicine is an excellent resource for sports medicine students and professionals. Their members include trainers, academic researchers, and physicians. ACSM members gain access to academic journals, continuing education materials, a sports medicine podcast, and other resources for a range of professionals in the field. They also have a members-only career portal with resources for resume writing and career development.
American School Health Association (ASHA): The American School Health Association advocates for creating collaborative, coordinated healthy school environments. They promote quality nursing, health and physical education, counseling, social services, and nutrition to best support school-aged children. Members gain exclusive access to the Journal of School Health, discounts on their annual conference and other educational support resources, and free Continuing Education credits through webinars, conferences, and self-studies.
The Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE): SOPHE is a nonprofit organization that works to improve public health through education and advocacy. They emphasize a holistic approach to public health by connecting behavioral science and health education. SOPHE members can participate in the larger public health education conversation, access journals and resources to continue education, become trained in public health advocacy, and connect with other professionals in the field.
National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA): The NRPA supports public health by supporting parks and recreation organizations. They emphasize conservation, health and wellness initiatives, and equal access to programs. Individuals and organizations can become NRPA members and gain access to educational resources, professional development tools, volunteer and leadership opportunities, and grant and fundraising support.