Feb 22, 2026  
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog

Physical Education, BA K - 12 Education Certification Preparation


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs (A-Z)

102 credit hours

This major is only obtainable as part of education certification preparation (Grades K-12). It is not obtainable as a stand-alone program. 

Certification Requirements

Teacher certification requires completion of both your content area degree and additional education coursework. To be recommended for Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) teacher certification in your chosen grade range (9-12 or K-12) and content area, you must:

  • Complete all requirements for your chosen content area degree
  • Declare and complete the Secondary Education (9-12) minor, including the courses listed below
  • Meet content-specific coursework requirements for teacher certification in your subject area

Important: The content area degree alone does not guarantee teacher certification eligibility. You must work closely with your education advisor in the College of Education and Human Services to ensure you complete all certification requirements. Your education advisor will help you develop a personalized pathway that satisfies both your degree requirements and the specific coursework needed for teacher certification in your content area.

Certification requirements are determined by the College of Education and Human Services in accordance with DESE standards and may change independently of university degree catalogs. Students are evaluated for Missouri DESE certification based on requirements in effect at the time of their recommendation for certification.

Students pursuing K-12 or secondary (grades 9-12) teacher certification are required to declare the Secondary Education minor in addition to their degree program to ensure accurate identification and advising for certification.

Requirements


Teaching and Technology Coursework


3 credit hours of coursework from the following options:

Oral Communications Coursework


3 credit hours of coursework from the following options:

Content Area Coursework


6 credit hours of coursework from the following options:

Human Anatomy and Physiology Coursework


4 credit hours of coursework from the following options:

Activity Coursework


At least 3 credit hours total of coursework in Team Sports, Life Sports, and Dance with at least one course in each category from the following options:

Team Sports Coursework


1 credit hour of coursework from the following options:

Lifetime Sports Coursework


1-3 credit hours of coursework from the following options:

Dance Coursework


2-3 credit hours of coursework from the following options:

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs (A-Z)