Study physical education abroad

A degree in physical education is designed to give you the skills and knowledge to teach and coach sports at a variety of levels. You’ll cover sport development, coaching pedagogy, physiology and psychology, and learn how to apply this knowledge to the classroom and coaching environment.

Studying physical education at a university abroad is an ideal option for those that want to combine their passion for sport and fitness with a desire to teach. You can go on to a fulfilling career coaching future athletes, leading school sports, and helping children keep fit and healthy.

As an international studying abroad, you’ll get a unique perspective on physical education and sports coaching. You’ll see first-hand another country’s sporting culture, and get the opportunity to benefit from the best facilities in the world.

At undergraduate level you can study for a BA or BSc in physical education. There is very little difference between the two qualifications, but the BSc programs may include more sports science or physiology focussed modules.

If you study in the US, you can choose physical education as a major or minor subject as part of a liberal arts education. If you want to qualify as a teacher once you graduate, make sure the program you choose includes teacher training. Bachelor’s programs typically take three or four years to complete depending on where you choose to study.

At postgraduate level you can study an MA or MSc in physical education or a related subject over one or two years. These are usually aimed at current professionals looking to widen their knowledge or improve their employability. In the UK, you can study a PGCE which will qualify you to teach physical education in schools.

Physical education is usually a highly practical program, but you will spend a lot of time in lectures and seminars. Most programs will also include placements where you get the chance to work in local schools.

The course structure and content of each program will depend on a range of factors, but some of the most common modules include:

• Pedagogical principles in sport
• Physiology and sport
• Sport and exercise psychology
• Movement and learning
• Science of movement
• Research in physical education
• School-based experience

Physical education programs are largely designed for those that want to go on to teach PE or coach sports. There are a variety of positions you could look to go into after graduation, including:

• Sports teacher
• Sporting coach
• Personal trainer
• Sports therapist
• Exercise physiologist
• Sports therapist

It’s worth noting that some of the careers above will require additional qualifications, so make sure you do your research. If you need helping working out which path is right for you, speak to the university’s careers advice service who can help.