Physical Education Teacher Education

Prepare to inspire healthy, active lifestyles.

Physical Education Teacher Education

Interested in a career inspiring students to lead healthy, active lives? At Simpson, our Physical Education Teacher Education program prepares you with the knowledge, practical experience, and personalized support to become a confident, effective physical education teacher. Students earn a teaching license with endorsements to teach Physical Education in grades K-8 and 5-12, with additional opportunities to earn health endorsements for K-8 and 5-12.

Learning goes beyond the classroom. You’ll work closely with faculty who are invested in your success while gaining hands-on experience through field experiences, clinical teaching, and student teaching in school settings. These opportunities allow you to apply what you learn, work directly with students, and learn from experienced educators. Along the way, you’ll build valuable teaching skills and professional connections while gaining the experience needed to enter the field with confidence.

Whether you plan to teach physical education or health, coach, or pursue graduate study, the program will prepare you to make a meaningful impact on students and inspire lifelong healthy, active lifestyles.

Students can receive a K-8 or a 5-12 teaching endorsement or a health endorsement for K-12.

View major course requirements

Resources for Current Simpson Teacher Education Students

Resources for Field Experience Mentors and Supervisors

Why Simpson College for Physical Education Teacher Education

What Will I Learn?

You’ll learn how to create engaging physical education and health experiences that promote lifelong wellness. Develop skills in teaching, assessment, classroom management, coaching, and inclusive instruction while gaining hands-on experience in K-12 settings. You’ll apply your knowledge through field experiences and student teaching, preparing you to confidently lead and inspire students.

Earn Your Health Endorsement

At least 50% of our PETE majors get their health endorsement. The endorsement is designed around the state teaching requirements and national health standards and allows the graduate to work in the classroom with students in grades K 12. It’s an added benefit when looking for a job.

Career Ready

Our graduates are prepared to launch successful careers and make an immediate impact in the workforce. Here are a few examples of where Simpson alumni are building their careers:

Ankeny Community School District
BCLUW Community Schools
Des Moines Public Schools
DSM Performance
Gilbert Community School District
Indianola Community School District
PCM Community School District
YMCA

Explore Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

Interested in the unique opportunities the department has to offer? See more opportunities and experiences that will shape your future at Simpson.

Education Club

The purpose of Education Club is to provide education majors with a chance to learn more about the field that they have chosen for their career. Education Club has many events throughout the school year. We have speakers come in to talk to the members about various topics dealing with education. The goal of the Education Club is to create a safe and fun environment for education majors, minors, and others interested in becoming a part of in order to grow, develop, and learn more about education, as well as provide outreach opportunities and workshops to better prepare education students for the real world. The purpose of this organization is consistent with the mission of Simpson College.

Pre-Health and Exercise Science Club

The Pre-Health and Exercise Science Club at Simpson College provides students with opportunities to engage in topics related to physical fitness, health, and wellness. Our club organizes various activities such as Workshops and Seminars that focus on health education, fitness, and nutrition led by professionals, or faculty members. Fitness and Group Workouts: We may host regular group exercise sessions, such as yoga or strength training, to encourage physical activity and peer support in maintaining fitness goals. Community Outreach: Members may participate in health fairs, offer fitness classes or wellness activities to the broader community, or collaborate with local health organizations to promote active lifestyles. Professional Development: The club often provides networking opportunities with professionals in health-related fields, career panels, or guidance on internships, certifications, and job opportunities in areas like physical therapy, sports medicine, and dietetics. Research and Learning Opportunities: The club encourages participation in research projects related to health and exercise science to support academic growth. Social Events: To build a close-knit community, the club organizes biweekly gatherings, recreational sports games, or outdoor activities like games to team members or those who are interested. The Health and Exercise Science Club promotes a culture of health, wellness, and academic/professional development within the context of exercise science and fitness.

Sport Administration Club

The Club’s purpose shall be to provide sports opportunities and fellowship between members and sports professionals that the club brings in to give members opportunities and exposure within the industry.