6 Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees in Physical Education Online for 2020

phys ed degreeIn this article ranking the most affordable Bachelor’s degrees in Physical Education online, we will explore the following types of degrees:

  • Online Bachelor’s in General Studies with an emphasis in Physical Education
  • Online Bachelor’s in Physical Education
  • Online Bachelor’s in Health and Human Performance with a concentration in Physical Education and Sport
  • Online B.S. in Physical Education
  • Online B.S in Applied Health Sciences

Are you undecided as to what major to pursue? Check out our article 5 of the Easiest Online Bachelor’s Degrees. If you are looking for a way to find high-quality, online degree programs for the best price, check out our ranking of the Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees.

If you enjoy being active and helping people maintain a healthy lifestyle, you might consider a low-cost online Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education. Though there aren’t many programs you can complete online, we found a few! You’ll be able to take your coursework on your own schedule and complete any practicum in your geographical location. With your degree, you can pursue careers as a physical education teacher, health educator, personal trainer, wellness coach, or more. Below, we explained how we ranked these 6 cheap online physical education degree programs.

Rating and Ranking Methodology

To develop this ranking of the top affordable Bachelor’s in Physical Education online programs, our editors searched for schools that offered cheap online undergraduate programs in Physical Education. Because there are so few online Bachelor’s degrees in physical education, we simply ranked them in descending order of net-price tuition, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics.

#6 Salem University

Salem, West Virginia

Online Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in Physical Education

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22 to 1

At Salem University, you can earn your affordable online BS in Education with a concentration in Physical Education. The online physical ed degree option at SU is a good fit for those who want a solid background in education but also have a passion for fitness, wellness, and physical education. The curriculum will merge skill development and healthy living with hands-on field experience (student teaching) for a well-rounded degree. Classes in the major include:

  • Individual Sports
  • Team Sports
  • Adapted Physical Education and Sport
  • Kinesiology and Biomechanics
  • Materials and Methods of Teaching Physical Education
  • Advanced Topics in Physical Education

It is important to note that this program is blended, meaning you’ll have some coursework on-campus. Thus, it will be necessary to live in the Salem, WV area. A related degree in Health Education is also available. The Salem School of Education is accredited through the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation’s NCATE, and upon graduation, you’ll have your licensure to begin teaching.

Net-Price Tuition: $17,774

#5 William Carey University

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Online BA/BS in Physical Education

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1

At William Carey University, you can earn your low cost undergraduate physical education online degree. As one of the most customizable on this ranking list, you can choose either a B.A. or B.S. degree option, which will affect what kind of general education coursework you take. You can pursue a degree in Physical Education with a teacher licensure option, or a major in Health, Recreation, and Physical Education. In addition, a minor is required for this major, including one of three options: coaching, recreation, or special education. Your professors will be faculty with experience in both the health and coaching fields. William Carey University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award bachelor, master, education specialist, and doctoral degrees.

Net-Price Tuition: $17,100

#4 Eastern Oregon University

La Grande, Oregon

Online Bachelor’s in Health and Human Performance with a concentration in Physical Education and Sport

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1

Eastern Oregon University’s affordable online physical ed degree offering is a Bachelor’s in Health and Human Performance with a concentration in Physical Education and Sport. The curriculum will focus on subject matter in health, sport, recreation, teacher education, coaching, and exercise science. It will also combine a scientific approach with a community-based hands-on curriculum. Coursework in the major include classes like:

  • Teaching Team Sports
  • Prevention & Care of Injury in Physical Activity Settings
  • Teaching Individual Lifetime Sports
  • Adapted Physical Activity
  • Sport Psychology

Additional available minors include two options in Health Studies or Outdoor Recreation and Leadership. In addition, related degrees in Exercise Science and Community Health are also available.  Graduates of the program will be able to enter the workforce as fitness instructors, personal trainers, public health employees, or health education specialists. You’ll also be prepared to continue your education in a Master’s degree program in teaching, sports management, or nutrition. The degree is also a springboard for professional careers in physical therapy, medicine, occupational therapy, chiropractic, or nursing. Eastern Oregon University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Net-Price Tuition: $15,902

#3 Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, Arkansas

Online Bachelor’s in General Studies with an emphasis in Physical Education

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1

Arkansas State University offers an online Bachelor’s in Physical Education in a unique way. Students will receive a Bachelor’s in General Studies, which provides a broad education emphasizing critical thinking skills. After completing the general education requirements, students will complete a concentration in Physical Education. Coursework includes the following classes:

  • Principles and Problems of Coaching
  • Sport in Society
  • Concepts of Athletic Training
  • Organization and Administration of Physical Education
  • Physical Education Curriculum
  • Philosophy & Ethics in Sport

The main goal of this area of specialization is to help students learn to plan and implement physical ed, recreational sports, fitness, or wellness activities. Graduates can pursue a myriad of professional positions in those fields. This 120-credit online physical education degree is convenient and flexible, offering multiple start times per year. ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price Tuition: $13,459

#2 Indiana University

Bloomington, Indiana

Online B.S in Applied Health Sciences

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
where to go to college

The affordable Bachelor’s in Physical Education online offering at Indiana University takes a more holistic approach. Your degree will result in an online B.S. in Applied Health Sciences with a curriculum focusing on preventing disease and encouraging wellness in families. This degree offering might be better suited for students seeking to make policy change or make a positive impact on the larger community. Two options for specialization areas in:

  • Community Health Education: this track will focus on elements of health education, general health, and wellness assessments
  • Health Administration: this track will focus more on the administrative side of health, including resource management and strategic planning

You can expect to take classes like:

  • Healthcare Delivery and Leadership
  • Health Policy, Ethics, and Legal Issues
  • Epidemiology/Biostatistics and Population Health
  • Informatics
  • Economics of Healthcare

And if you’re worried about taking your classes online, Indiana University has you covered. You’ll get academic support, success coaching, career services, and 24/7 tech support. Indiana University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price Tuition: $11,931

#1 Eastern New Mexico University

Portales, New Mexico

Online Bachelor of Science in Physical Education with an emphasis in Sport and Recreation Management

Website
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
 
At Eastern New Mexico University, you can earn your low-cost online Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with an emphasis in Sport and Recreation Management for a price tag of just $10,000 net-price tuition per year. Though the school offers other areas of focus, this one in Sport and Recreation Management can be taken fully online. In addition, you can take it on-campus or as a blended program. As an online student, you’ll be privy to the school’s online support services, including online tutoring, online advising, student success center, and online writing center. Sample major classes include options like:

  • Sports Marketing
  • Media and Public Relations in Sports
  • Facilities and Event Management
  • Sport Finance
  • Fundamentals of Sport Management
  • Professional & Technical Communication

Students will also participate in a hands-on internship experience. Graduates will be prepared to start careers in professional sports management, private club management, high school sport management, or fitness blogging.  Eastern New Mexico University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price Tuition: $10,918

What is an affordable online Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education?

An affordable online Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education will typically be a 4-year endeavor that will prepare students to be physical education teachers, health teachers, sport coaches, athletic directors, personal trainers, and more. Though each program will be different, the main goal of the programs will focus on equipping you to teach people how to live a healthy lifestyle, whether through school, sport, or recreation.

What concentrations are available for a cheap online Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education?

Some schools might offer areas of concentration to give you a more in-depth specific degree of study. In the Physical Education field, you might see emphasis areas like coaching, athletics, health, or administration. In addition, as is the case with some programs on this list, some schools offer a major in Education, with an area of focus in Physical Education. This degree will give you a solid foundation in the education field and will allow you to hone in your focus in the field of physical education. Typically, this degree will lead to licensure with the purpose of teaching in K-12 schools.

What minors would best accompany an affordable degree in physical education online?

Though they are similar, a minor differs from a concentration. An area of emphasis will go hand in hand with your major, and will usually be within the same department and a part of your actual degree. A minor, on the other hand, can be from another area of study, designed to complement your degree.

While all options will vary by school, if you decide you want to pursue a minor, you’ll want to choose an option that will help you in your future career. Typically, to add on a minor, you will take about 15 extra credit hours (will depend on the program), which is about 5 additional classes. Some schools will even allow these classes to take the place of electives, enabling you to customize your degree to fit your goals. A few minors that could be helpful in the physical education field are: education, health education, nutrition, exercise science, community health, or health administration.

What coursework can I expect to take in my low-cost online physical education degree?

All coursework will vary by program and by specific degrees, but at the core, a physical education curriculum will address key components like:

  • health science
  • nutrition
  • psychology of sport
  • teaching methodology
  • sport and recreation
  • kinesiology or exercise

Specific coursework reviewed in the programs on this ranking list include:

  • Teaching Team Sports
  • Prevention & Care of Injury in Physical Activity Settings
  • Teaching Individual Lifetime Sports
  • Sport Psychology
  • Sports Marketing
  • Media and Public Relations in Sports
  • Facilities and Event Management
  • Sport Finance
  • Fundamentals of Sport Management
  • Professional & Technical Communication
  • Healthcare Delivery and Leadership
  • Health Policy, Ethics, and Legal Issues
  • Epidemiology/Biostatistics and Population Health
  • Informatics
  • Economics of Healthcare
  • Adapted Physical Education and Sport
  • Kinesiology and Biomechanics
  • Materials and Methods of Teaching Physical Education
  • Advanced Topics in Physical Education

Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education FAQs:

Q: Will I be able to teach with my cheap online degree in physical education?

In order to teach, you will need licensure within your state. Some programs will include this part (like the option at William Carey University), but other programs may not. This means that in order to teach, you may need extra certification or you could continue towards a Master’s degree in Education. Make sure to check your program for information, as well as your state’s guidelines for aspiring educators.

Q: Is getting an online degree in Physical Education worth it?

Absolutely. We know that educators don’t teach for the money; they teach for the love of the students and the subject matter. But, you will definitely make more money long term if you get your Bachelor’s degree. You’ll be able to make a difference and earn a good living doing it. Plus, you’ll earn respect from your peers, which is always a positive.

Q: How useful is my affordable online degree in physical education?

As long as there are people on this earth, we will need professionals to help us understand how to move our bodies and keep them healthy. And it’s probably safe to say that the sports industry won’t be slowing down any time soon either. Choosing a degree in physical education is wise because it’s practical. Job opportunities are vast, and you’ll be able to find a career that matches your passion!

Q: Can I take my classes part-time?

These days, colleges and universities are hyper-aware that students have a lot to manage. Some students need to take their classes part-time so they can also work or take care of family. That’s why most colleges allow you to take your classes on a part-time basis. But because details for every program vary, you’ll want to verify that your specific program offers your program part-time before you commit to it. One point to consider is that taking your program on a part-time basis will lengthen the time it takes to get your degree. In addition, some schools might require you to finish your degree in a certain amount of years, so if you are taking your courses part-time, make sure you don’t drag it on too long.

Q: Will I be able to work and go to online school at the same time?

The answer to this question will depend on you and what you think you can handle. In addition, it might matter what type of job you have. If it takes a lot of mental energy, maybe you won’t be able to balance it all. Try looking for a program that offers asynchronous courses and doesn’t have scheduled times for classes or tests. While you could possibly manage due dates, it might be easier to create your own schedule and fit your schooling in when it’s best for you. Also, don’t overdo it. You don’t want to be spread thin, so consider only taking on a part-time load so you can make sure you’re giving your best to school and work! Lastly, if you live near the university where you are taking classes, you could always try to find a job on campus (like a peer worker or tutor). You might even get a tuition discount for being an employee!

Q: What kind of technology will I need to complete my online degree?

Typically all you’ll need is a computer and access to the internet. Other programs that utilize video conferencing or participation might require camera and microphone access on your computer. But, it’s important to remember that every program is different. To find out exactly what you need, check your school’s website. If you don’t see the information you need, simply call the school and they can direct you to the right department.

Q: How will I pay for my cheap online physical education degree?

We know that the cost of higher education can be daunting, but the good news is that most online programs offer discounted rates or at least in-state tuition for their online students. You might even be able to find scholarships. Either way, don’t let the price of school deter you from chasing your educational dreams! Here a few ways you can cut down the cost of your education:

  • credit for prior knowledge (through testing)
  • credit for military service
  • tuition discounts for military personnel and dependents
  • special rates for online students
  • flat-rate tuition (tuition caps)

While not every school on this list utilizes all of these cost-saving methods, even just one of them could drastically impact your future.

Q: When can I start my online degree in physical education?

Some online schools follow a traditional path, offering start times each semester and sometimes in the summer. Other programs even offer monthly start times. Still others allow you to start whenever you’re ready. Make a decision for what best fits your personal timeline and availability.

Q: Is the cost of my books included in the tuition cost?

Most of the time, the answer to this question will be no. Typically, the cost of books will be on top of your tuition rates. However, there are some schools out there that either (1) use online textbooks to save money or (2) don’t charge extra for books. If you do need to purchase your books, try buying them used to save money. There are plenty of online resources out there to help you with your search.

Career FAQs:

Q: If I get a degree in Physical Education, is my only career option to become a teacher?

No, it’s not. While becoming a PE teacher might be a popular career choice for people with degrees in Physical Education, it won’t be your only option. This is why choosing a minor or area of concentration could be beneficial–as it could direct you to different or more specific career choices. You’ll also have the option to continue to graduate school and broaden your career choices as well.

Q: What are some careers I can pursue with my low-cost online degree in Physical Education?

With a  degree in physical education, you’ll be able to start careers in many different fields. For example, options in public/private schools, fitness, health organizations, or nutrition will be available to you. Depending on your area of concentration, specific choices could include:

  • PE Teacher
  • Health/Wellness Teacher
  • Athletic Director
  • Coach
  • Fitness Instructor
  • Recreation Worker
  • Fitness Blogger
  • Human Kinetics
  • Sport Nutritionist

Some jobs related to physical education might require a higher or professional degree. However, if you continue your schooling, you could also work in fields like:

  • Sports Medicine
  • Sports Psychology
  • Collegiate level athletics/athletic director
  • Senior-level health administration positions
  • Sport/Athletic Law
  • Physical Therapy

Q: What kind of salary can I expect with an online physical education degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, salaries could be:

  • Fitness Trainer & Instructor: $39,820 per year
  • High School Teacher: $60,320 per year
  • Health Educator/Community Health Worker: $46,080 per year
  • Coach/Scout: $33,780 per year

*Might require extra certification or schooling:

  • Exercise Psychologist: $49,270 per year
  • Dietician/Nutritionist: $60,370 per year
  • Recreational Therapist: $47,860 per year
  • Athletic Trainer: $47,510 per year
  • Medical and Health Services Manager: $99,730 per year

Q: How do I know what career path to take?

Ultimately, the answer to this question will be up to you. While some people are driven by income, others will be driven by passion. Keep in mind that whatever you pursue, you want to love it. You spend a lot of your time at work, so there’s no reason to do something you don’t love. However, always keep in mind that your degree is versatile. If you start working, and you don’t love what you do, just reevaluate. Perhaps you could find another field within physical education that will work for you.

Q: Are there any professional organizations for people in Physical Education related careers?

Yes, there are! Professional organizations are important to get involved with because they can help guide you in your career. You’ll stay up to date on best practices, helpful current information, research, and studies in your given field. You’ll even meet like-minded peers and begin to build a network of colleagues. A few options include the following:

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