Online Colleges with a Bachelors Degree in Physical Education: How to Choose

Online physical education programs are rare. Before selecting and enrolling in a program, students should be certain that it is accredited by the proper authorities to ensure credit transfer and degree recognition.

How to Choose an Online School for a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education

Degree Availability

Bachelor's degree programs in physical education are rarely available in a fully-online format. Hybrid programs may be available from some universities, and fully-online degrees are available in rare circumstances. In either case, students should be aware of the type of degree program in which they are enrolling and should make sure they are comfortable with the schedule and requirements that it will impose upon them. Students should also be aware that online degree programs may not provide as thorough a training program in a predominantly physical discipline such as physical education.

Program Accreditation

Students who wish to go on to teach at most colleges or public schools or who may later transfer credits to another institution should ensure before enrolling in any degree program that it is properly accredited. Because some online education institutions that offer such degree programs operate internationally, they may not be accredited by United States accrediting authorities. Students who enroll in non-accredited programs may find that they are not qualified for many jobs in the field upon graduation or that their course credits cannot be transferred to other programs.

Online Program Options for Physical Education

Bachelor of Science in Physical Activity and Health

A bachelor's degree in physical activity and health is designed to teach students how to promote health and well-being for clients at a variety of fitness levels. Classes on human anatomy and physiology, youth coaching, nutrition, injury prevention and biomechanics are all common in this type of online degree program. Courses are often delivered via unified education software that combines message boards, e-mail, online testing and assignment feedback capabilities.

Bachelor of Science in Sports and Health Sciences

A bachelor's degree in sports and health sciences often focuses on teaching students how to coach and train others for various sports. Students also learn about the financial and practical issues associated with managing or running a sports team. Class topics might include exercise physiology, training and conditioning techniques, sports drugs, injury prevention, sports marketing and athletic program administration.