Earning a physical education degree can be highly rewarding for individuals who have a passion for health and wellness. There are so many careers that are available in the health and fitness industry.
With a physical education degree, graduates can explore careers as fitness trainers, coaches, and physical education teachers. In addition, some individuals may pursue advanced careers in physical and occupational therapy.
Best Accredited Colleges identifies the five most affordable physical education degree programs available online as well as informs readers of similar online degree programs.
The Top Affordable Physical Education Degrees Online
The following list contains the five most affordable physical education degree programs available online.
1. Eastern New Mexico University
Eastern New Mexico University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Physical Education with an emphasis in sport and recreation management degree program that allows students to complete their assignments on their schedule.
The online program prepares its students to work in high school sports administration, private sports clubs, and professional sports. Along with the coursework, students are provided with hands-on experiences and electives that allow students to specialize.
The university offers flexible tutoring services to its students as well as online databases for online assignments. The program is extremely affordable with each credit hour priced at $174.75 or $257.27 for residents and non-residents, respectively.
2. Arkansas State University
Arkansas State University offers a unique program that prepares students for careers in physical education. Their online Bachelor of General Studies program is a versatile degree program that allows students to build on prior coursework and explore various interests.
The program is intended to provide work-relevant skills, in addition to courses in communications, math, science, arts, and humanities. Along with the general coursework, the university offers a physical education emphasis.
In this emphasis, students will develop a broad-based understanding of planning and implementing physical activity programs.
Students can expect to take courses in:
- concepts of athletic training
- principles and problems of coaching
- sport in society
- organizations and administration of physical education
The program is a total of 120 credit hours and each credit is priced at $276. This makes this particular program one of the most affordable degree programs available online.
3. Eastern Oregon University
Eastern Oregon University also offers a physical education degree program. The university has an online Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance that primarily focuses on physical education and sport.
The program allows students to learn from expert faculty members who provide students with a well-rounded education.
In the program, students are provided with:
- career-ready skills for physical education
- unique core and elective course topics
- hands-on internships
- capstone project opportunity
The program is a total of 180 credit hours, making the total cost of the program to be around $50,000.
4. William Carey University
William Carey University has one of the most popular online physical education degree programs. Their Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education aims to provide students with the knowledge to educate others on health and wellness.
Throughout the program, students are equipped with the understanding of procedures, methods, techniques, and materials needed for competent teaching and coaching.
The program is available online and consists of 128 credit hours.
5. Salem University
The Bachelor of Science in Education degree provides an emphasis on physical education. The program is offered in a unique format with blended courses that are available on-campus and online.
The program combines education principles with elements of kinesiology and provides coursework in physical and mental human development.
After completing the program, students will be able to:
- plan and strategize lessons
- develop appropriate assessments
- create productive learning environments
- collaborate with administrators and fellow educators
- build relationships with students and family members
Other Online Colleges That Offer Similar Degrees
The following list contains other online colleges that offer similar degree programs for individuals interested in physical education.
Maryville University
Maryville University is a popular online university that offers plenty of flexible online degree programs for aspiring students. Among their many degree programs, their exercise science program is a standout program.
Their Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree program is delivered completely online and provides students with the foundations in nutrition, counseling, behavioral strategies, and many more.
Other features of their exercise science program include:
- 24/7 access to online coursework
- no SAT/ACT required
- transfer credit-friendly admission
- access to state-of-the-art human performance lab
The university also offers two different concentration tracks for students to choose from: wellness management and strength and conditioning.
The degree program is a total of 128 credit hours and each credit is priced at $525.
Concordia University St. Paul
CSP Globals's Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science degree program is another option for individuals who are looking to enter the physical education industry.
The online program offers:
- career-connected curriculum
- many hands-on experiences
- transfer credit admission
- six convenient start dates each year
The online exercise degree provides a liberal arts perspective through a general education core.
Throughout the program, students take courses in:
- nutrition
- anatomy and physiology
- sport business
- motor development
- biomechanics
- kinesiology
This program consists of 120 credits and each credit is $420. The program can be completed in as few as two years.
Franklin University
Franklin University's Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree program is another great option for students.
Throughout 120 credit hour program, students are exposed to courses in:
- nutrition and fitness
- sports law
- medical terminology
- applied research methods
- exercise physiology
The degree program is delivered completely online and consists of six and 12-week courses. The program is highly affordable with each credit priced at $398.
Average Cost of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education
The average cost of an online bachelor's degree in physical education is between $30,000 to $50,000. Depending on the institution, some colleges and universities charge more per credit hour.
How To Finance an Online Physical Education Degree
There are many resources available for online students who need financial assistance.
One of the best ways is to apply for:
- federal loans
- private loans
- grants
Outside of federal aid, online students are eligible for scholarship awards as well as work-study programs. Some employers offer tuition assistance to their employees in exchange for continued employment within the company.
Benefits of a Physical Education Degree
One of the main benefits of earning a degree in physical education is the amount of careers that an individual can pursue.
With a physical education degree, graduates can explore careers as:
- athletic coaches
- fitness trainers
- physical education teachers
- athletic directors
In addition to the many careers available, other benefits of a physical education degree are:
- job security
- increased growth rates
- increased job satisfaction
Start Your Physical Education Degree Online Today
A physical education degree program prepares students for an endless amount of career opportunities. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about physical education, please reach out to any of the programs above for more information.
