Education - Physical Education B.S.

Turn a passion for movement and teaching into a career shaping healthier, more active lives.

Approved by the New York State Education Department and nationally accredited, Manhattan University's Physical Education program prepares you to teach in elementary and secondary schools. You will combine coursework in the scientific foundations of movement with extensive fieldwork and supervised student teaching in New York City and beyond.

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Credit Hours
120
Time to Complete
4 Years
Kids on Physical Education Class at School

This program is part of Kinesiology & Health

The Manhattan University Difference

What Sets Us Apart

Manhattan University's Physical Education program prepares you to become a certified K-12 teacher through a blend of movement science, research-based teaching methods, and hands-on practice that begins early. You will learn in small classes, work directly with K-12 students well before graduation, and build the knowledge and professional dispositions of an effective, caring educator, all near the heart of New York City.

An Accredited Path to Certification

Accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) and approved by NYSED, the program leads to New York State K-12 teaching certification.

Teach From Your First Year

Build your skills through field experiences that begin early and grow each year, so you are teaching long before graduation.

 

Grounded in Teaching Methods

Learn research-based pedagogy, curriculum design, and assessment aligned with national and New York State physical education standards.

Adapted and Inclusive Practice

Prepare to teach learners of all abilities through coursework and field experience in adapted physical activity.

 

The Science of Human Movement

Study exercise physiology, anatomical kinesiology, and biomechanics, the scientific foundations behind effective teaching.

May Camp and the Outdoors

Spend a week earning credit through outdoor pursuits and adventure programming that builds community and problem-solving skills.

 

Students jumping and raising their arms, following their gym teacher's instructions during a physical education class

The Manhattan Advantage

Why Study Physical Education at Manhattan University?

At Manhattan University, Physical Education students learn to teach the motor skills, games, and lifelong fitness habits that shape healthier lives. The professional curriculum combines liberal arts and sciences with the scientific principles of human movement and the craft of effective teaching, all in small classes built around mentorship. You will gain real teaching experience from your first year, complete extensive fieldwork and student teaching, and graduate prepared for New York State certification and a meaningful career in education.

Students jumping and raising their arms, following their gym teacher's instructions during a physical education class
Training Cones and Markers on Artificial Grass field.

Certification and Accreditation

Manhattan University's Physical Education program is approved by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and leads to New York State teaching certification in physical education (K-12), qualifying you to teach in primary and secondary schools. NYSED maintains certification reciprocity agreements with many other states, so your credential can travel with you. The program is also nationally accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a mark of rigorous, recognized educator preparation.

Training Cones and Markers on Artificial Grass field.

Teach Before You Graduate

Manhattan University builds real teaching experience into the program from the start. Beyond your coursework, you will complete 100 hours of fieldwork in K-12 schools and 60 full-time days of supervised student teaching before graduation, gaining the confidence and classroom skills that set new teachers apart.

Early and Ongoing Fieldwork

Complete 100 hours of fieldwork in K-12 schools, serving as a teacher's assistant and planning and presenting physical activities to students.

Live Teaching at Partner Schools

Plan and teach real lessons at partner schools, including Fieldston Lower School and Intech Academy, building from elementary methods to secondary practice.

A Semester of Student Teaching

Student teach for a full semester in your senior year, split between the elementary and secondary levels, under close supervision.

Academics

Curriculum & Courses

Manhattan University's Physical Education program has a well-earned reputation for producing excellent physical educators who teach across urban and suburban districts. Graduates step into the classroom, the gymnasium, and coaching roles, and many continue on to graduate study in related fields.

To view the whole curriculum, please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.

  • Adapted Physical Activity
  • Anatomical Kinesiology
  • Biomechanics of Human Movement
  • Curriculum & Assessment
  • Intro Teaching Physical Ed
  • Motor Learning
  • Organization, Administration & Principles of Kinesiology
  • Physiology of Exercise
  • Quality Physical Education for Elementary Schools
  • Quality Physical Education for Secondary Schools
  • Supervised Practice Teaching in Secondary Schools

Minor in Adapted Physical Education

All physical education and exercise science majors are eligible upon completing five courses (14 credits) with a grade of C or higher: Adapted Physical Activity, Adapted Exercise & Sport, Therapeutic Recreation, Nature and Needs of Students with Disabilities, and Classroom & Instructional Management for Diverse Learners.

Physical Education: Teach, Coach, and Inspire.

At Manhattan University, Physical Education students gain rigorous preparation, extensive teaching experience, and individualized mentorship in a supportive community. The program produces excellent educators who teach across urban and suburban schools and go on to lead in classrooms, gymnasiums, and beyond.

A Nationally Accredited Program

Approved by NYSED and nationally accredited, the program meets rigorous standards for educator preparation.

Small Classes, Close Mentorship

Learn in a supportive community where faculty mentor you toward certification and a successful teaching career.

NYC's Diverse Classrooms

Observe and student teach across urban and suburban schools, preparing you to teach in any setting.

A Bridge to Graduate Study

Graduates go on to advanced study in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant programs, and other health professions.

A Strong Alumni Network

Join a wide network of alumni teachers, coaches, and administrators who help open doors to employment.

Coaching and Beyond

Build the knowledge and skills to coach at the middle school, high school, or collegiate level.

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Why Study in New York City

For a future teacher, few places offer more than New York City. Manhattan University places students in a broad range of school settings, from city public schools to private and suburban classrooms, giving you experience with the diverse students and communities you will one day teach. Partner schools and a vast network of districts within reach of campus mean you can observe, practice, and student teach across very different environments before you graduate. That range builds adaptable, confident educators, and it connects you to a professional community of teachers, coaches, and school leaders, near the heart of New York City.

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Potential Careers

Manhattan University's Physical Education program has a well-earned reputation for producing excellent physical educators who teach across urban and suburban districts. Graduates step into the classroom, the gymnasium, and coaching roles, and many continue on to graduate study in related fields.

  • Athletic Coach
  • Athletic Director
  • Fitness Instructor
  • Health Education Teacher
  • Health Educator and Community Health Worker
  • Physical Education Teacher
  • Strength and Conditioning Coach

Learn From Leaders in the Field

In Physical Education, you learn from faculty who are accomplished teachers, scholars, and leaders in their profession. Members of the department hold leadership roles in professional organizations such as the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYSAHPERD), and they mentor you closely through coursework, fieldwork, and student teaching, helping you grow into a confident, certified educator.

Kinesiology and Health Faculty

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The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences

The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. With strong pre-law and pre-health advising and a focus on ethical, engaged scholarship, Kakos graduates leave prepared to lead, and the University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), evidence of where that preparation leads.

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Program Costs & Financial Aid

Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.

More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.

A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.

Learn More About Costs and Financial Aid

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A Smarter Investment in Your Future

Jasper Guarantee

At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.

Learn More About the Jasper Guarantee
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Admissions Information for Manhattan University

Start Your Journey in Physical Education
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements below to take the next step toward your degree.

Requirements:

  • Application & transcript
  • SAT/ACT optional
  • Personal statement
  • Letter(s) of recommendation

Deadlines:

  • Early Action: November 15
  • Regular Decision: February 1

Admission and Application Process

International Students:

Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.

Learn More about International Financial Aid

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Prepare for the Real World

At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.

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