Welcome to the Physical Education Teacher Education program! We believe great PE teachers help students grow into healthy, happy, and helpful humans. Our unique PE teacher preparation program has dedicated faculty with decades of experience who are committed to guiding you to be the best teacher you can be.
The Physical Education program is not one of the larger programs in the state, but we think it is one of the best. More than once, a retired Health and Physical Education Curriculum Director from a school district in Wisconsin told us our graduates are better prepared than students coming out of any other program. We feel good about that.
In addition to the Physical Education major, we also offer a minor in Adapted Physical Education and a minor in Health Education. The Adapted minor is important for teaching at all levels and the Health minor is important for teaching at the secondary level. You can develop the program to fit your needs and graduate with just the Physical Education major, the major and one minor, or the major and both minors.
The UW–Madison School of Education Teacher Pledge can financially support your dreams of becoming a teacher. You pledge to teach in Wisconsin PK-12 schools for 3-4 years after graduation. In return, we pledge to pay the equivalent of in-state tuition and fees, testing, and licensing costs.
We are committed to transforming physical education into a powerful experience in which students develop physical, mental, and social skills for life. To that end, our program includes the following elements:
- Standards-based curriculum models
- Culturally responsive teaching techniques in inclusive and multicultural settings
- Social and emotional learning that incorporates community building and behavior management
Physical Education students also benefit from:
- Nationally and state-recognized faculty and staff members
- Student teaching placements in urban, suburban, or rural settings, depending on the needs of the individual
- Small class sizes and advising groups
- A strong science and technology-based curriculum
- Instruction within the #1 nationally ranked UW–Madison School of Education
From the beginning, you will get to work with students from diverse educational backgrounds, ensuring you will be prepared to thrive in any setting after graduation. We offer many "out-of-the-classroom" opportunities to strengthen and expand your physical education knowledge, and proudly have a presence in Special Olympics, adapted clubs, and local Boys & Girls Clubs.
You'll also have a chance to study abroad and take our team-building course in Costa Rica! We go every May after the spring semester, and our students learn how to create a safe, inclusive learning community in a unique cultural setting.
Throughout the Physical Education program, you’ll observe PE teachers, team teach home-schooled elementary students, and participate in community service opportunities in the Madison area. In your final year at UW, you’ll be mentored by veteran PE teachers who use various PE curriculum models: Adventure Learning, Fitness Education, Teaching Games for Understanding, and Sport Education. These invaluable teaching practices will prepare you for the joys and responsibilities of your own PE classroom.
Physical Education students also have the opportunity for professional growth as they earn their degree. Students have given presentations at the Wisconsin, Midwest, and national Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America) conferences. Several students have recently served in leadership positions at the state and district levels.
The world needs individuals like you who want to make a difference through physical education. We are excited you want to be a part of the movement!
On, Wisconsin!
"I think one of the most impactful and important aspects of this program is how often I go into schools, am involved in volunteer opportunities, and just work directly with students and people with and without disabilities. There's a lot of great opportunities to get involved in hands-on experiences instead of just being in a classroom."
–Lucas Mandel (read more)
How to Get In
Physical Education Declaration Overview
Students interested in a degree in Physical Education can enter UW–Madison with a Pre-Physical Education classification. They spend their initial semesters completing liberal studies, general education, and science core requirements.
UW-Madison students who started in another major can move to Pre-Physical Education by completing a Pre-Professional Declaration. A GPA of 2.75, based on all UW–Madison coursework or the last 60 credits, is required to transfer into Pre-Physical Education.
It is not necessary to be a Pre-Physical Education student before declaring the Bachelor of Science in Physical Education.
Declaring Bachelor of Science in Physical Education (BSPE)
On-Campus Students
On-campus students may declare the Bachelor of Science in Physical Education degree at any time, provided they have met the following requirements:
- Have second-year academic standing.
- Earned a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA (4.00 scale) on all college work attempted, or a 2.75 on the last 60 credits.
- Have met with a Physical Education or School of Education Student Services advisor who will submit the declaration form; see Contact Information for details.
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Last 60 Credits Rule - Two grade point averages may be calculated to determine a candidate's eligibility to declare Physical Education. A GPA may be calculated using (1) UW-Madison and all other all transferable college level coursework attempted and (2) the last 60 credits attempted. The higher GPA of these two calculations will be used for determining eligibility. Once declared, students must earn a semester GPA of 2.75 each semester after declaration. More information on this rule is available here.
Off-Campus Transfers to UW-Madison
Off-campus students wishing to transfer to UW-Madison and declare the Bachelor of Science in Physical Education degree must be admitted to UW-Madison. Admission to the university has its own application, admission process, and application deadlines; see Office of Admissions and Recruitment for application information. Students also need to meet with a Physical Education or School of Education Student Services advisor, who will determine if the following eligibility requirements to declare the BSPE degree have been met:
- Have second year academic standing.
- Earned a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA (4.00 scale) on all college work attempted or 2.75 on the last 60 credits.
See Contact Information for details. The advisor will submit the declaration form if the student has met the eligibility requirements. Transfer students who do not meet the declaration eligibility requirements may be admitted to UW-Madison with the Pre-Physical Education classification.
Students with a Previous Undergraduate Degree
Students who already hold a Bachelor’s degree and wish to become certified to teach Physical Education must be admitted to UW-Madison. Admission to the university has its own application, admission process, and application deadlines; see Office of Admissions and Recruitment for university application information.
Students need to meet with a Physical Education or School of Education Student Services advisor who will (1) review the student's eligibility to declare the BSPE degree, and (2) discuss their admission status, see below. Eligibility requires that a student has:
- Earned a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA (4.00 scale) on all college work attempted or 2.75 on the last 60 credits.
See Contact Information for details. The advisor will submit the declaration form if the student has met the eligibility requirement.
An applicant with a previous undergraduate degree will be admitted to Physical Education as a second degree candidate or as a School of Education "Special Student," depending on their academic background. Second degree candidates in the School of Education are changing their academic direction and wish to complete a degree that is unrelated to their first degree. A large number of credits are usually required to complete the new degree requirements and a second degree is awarded upon its completion; more information is available here.
Admission as an Education Special Student indicates that the applicant wishes to pursue teacher certification in Physical Education and studied it extensively during their initial degree. An individual enrolls in Physical Education as a Special Student to complete the requirements that were not taken during the first degree; these are assessed on a case by case basis. Another degree is not awarded for this "certification only" coursework.
All returning students are strongly advised to meet with an advisor in the School of Education Student Services office before applying for admission to UW-Madison. Consultations with advisors are available in person, virtually, or via telephone; email studentservices@education.wisc.edu or call 608-262-1651 to schedule an appointment.
Background Checks
Pursuant to State of Wisconsin law PI 34.018(2), the School of Education is required to administer a background check on all students entering teacher education programs. This check is intended to determine if the applicant has engaged in any behavior that endangers the health, welfare, safety, or education of PK-12 pupils. Local school districts frequently conduct background checks on teacher education students prior to the start of their in-classroom field work, and the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) will also conduct a background check on each applicant for a Wisconsin educator license.
Students should be aware that background checks may be initiated by other agencies or organizations when they are seeking employment or a professional license. School administrators have the authority to determine the appropriateness of a student placement and may choose not to permit a placement based on a student’s background check results.
An individual who has been deemed ineligible to participate in field or clinical experiences based on the results of their background check may not be able to complete the requirements for their degree or certification. Students with questions about these processes should contact the Teacher Education Center, tec@education.wisc.edu.
- University Requirements
- School of Education Liberal Studies Requirements
- Program Structure
- Science and Kinesiology Core Courses
- Physical Education Courses
- Professional Education Courses
- Additional Certification Options
- Continuation Requirement: Department of Kinesiology
- GPA and Other Graduation Requirements
- Additional Certification Requirements and Applying for a License
University Requirements
All undergraduate students must complete both the following Core General Education (Core GenEd) and University Degree and Quality of Work requirements. The requirements below apply to students whose first term at UW-Madison or whose earliest post-high school college attendance at any institution is Summer 2026 or later.
Students whose first term at UW-Madison or whose earliest post-high school college attendance at any institution occurred before Summer 2026 should refer to the archived Guide for the requirements that apply to them.
Core General Education (Core GenEd) Requirements
| Civics & Perspectives | 3 credits of Civics & Perspectives coursework. |
| Communication & Literacy | 6 credits of Communication & Literacy coursework. This requirement may be partially satisfied by a qualifying placement test score. For more information see this tiny url: https://go.wisc.edu/qualifyingenglishplacement |
| Humanities & Arts | 6 credits of Humanities & Arts coursework. |
| Mathematics & Quantitative Reasoning | 6 credits of Mathematics & Quantitative Reasoning coursework. This requirement may be partially satisfied by a qualifying placement test score. For more information see this tiny url: https://go.wisc.edu/qualifyingmathplacement |
| Natural Science & Wellness | Complete both:
|
| Social & Behavioral Science | 3 credits of Social & Behavioral Science coursework. |
| Total Credits | 30 credits. |
For more information see the policy.
University Degree and Quality of Work Requirements
All undergraduate degree recipients must complete the following minimum requirements. Requirements for some programs will exceed these requirements; see program requirements for additional information.
| Total Degree | 120 degree credits. |
| Residency | Complete 30 credits in residence. A course is considered “in residence” if it is taken when in undergraduate degree-seeking status and:
|
| Quality of Work | Achieve at least the minimum grade point average specified by the school, college, and/or academic program. |
| Math | Demonstrate minimal mathematics competence by: |
| English Language | If required to take the UW-Madison English as a Second Language Assessment Test (MSN-ESLAT), demonstrate minimal English language competence by:
|
| Language | Complete one:
|
| Major Declaration | Declare and complete the requirements for at least one major. |
School of Education Liberal Studies Requirements
All students are required to complete a minimum of 40 credits of Liberal Studies coursework. This requirement provides an opportunity to do some academic exploration beyond the scope of the major. Students take courses in areas of particular interest and also have an opportunity to sample the wide selection of courses offered across the university. Coursework is required in humanities, social studies, science, and cultural and historical studies. Some elective coursework is also needed to reach the required number of credits.
The School of Education’s Liberal Studies Requirements automatically satisfy most of the University General Education Requirements outlined above, including ethnic studies, humanities/literature, social studies, and science. Students pursuing most School of Education degree programs may also complete Communication Part B, Quantitative Reasoning Part A, and Quantitative Reasoning Part B through courses required by their degree program. If a student cannot complete a General Education Requirement within the curriculum of their chosen School of Education program, academic advisors can offer suggestions for courses that meet the requirement and augment the student’s primary area of study.
A basic outline of the liberal studies is included below. Students must consult the detailed version of the requirements for information about course selection and approved course options.
Humanities, 9 credits
All students must complete a minimum of 9 credits to include:
- Literature
- Fine Arts
- Humanities Electives
Social Studies (Social Science)
All students must complete a minimum of 9 credits. Teacher certification programs and Kinesiology have unique requirements in this category.
Science
All students must complete a minimum of 9 credits to include:
- Biological Science
- Physical Science
- Laboratory Science
- Science Electives
Cultural and Historical Studies
All students must complete three requirements (9 credits) met by separate courses. Any of these courses can also be used to meet the Humanities or Social Studies (Social Sciences) requirements if it has the relevant breadth designation.
- Ethnic Studies
- U.S./European History
- Global Perspectives
Complete Liberal Studies Electives to total 40 Credits.
Program Structure
The Physical Education program has six components:
- Liberal studies courses expose students to a broad range of academic disciplines. The university-wide General Education requirements also encourage this breadth of study.
- Science Core coursework offers in-depth study of the basic sciences and mathematics.
- Kinesiology Core courses look at how the body responds and adapts to exercise, the role of psychological factors in sports and exercise, mechanics applied to biological systems, and how movement is controlled, learned, and developed over the life span.
- The Physical Education requirements focus on advanced study in Physical Education pedagogy, including teaching methods coursework and field experiences in the schools.
- Education coursework includes an examination of the school's relationship to our society and also of the processes by which students grow and learn.
- Elective coursework is taken to reach the minimum of 120 credits required for the degree.
While not required, teaching certifications in Adapted Physical Education and Health Education are also offered. See Additional Certification Options, below.
Science and Kinesiology Core Courses
With the exception of KINES 116 First Aid and Basic Life Support and KINES 121 Foundations of Physical Education, Kinesiology coursework must be taken after admission into the professional part of the undergraduate program.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 112 | College Algebra | 3 |
| CHEM 108 | Chemistry in Our World | 5 |
| or CHEM 103 | General Chemistry I | |
| ANAT&PHY 337 | Human Anatomy | 3 |
| ANAT&PHY 235 | Human Physiology and Health | 4 |
| KINES 116 | First Aid and Basic Life Support 1 | 2 |
| KINES 308 | Biomechanics of Physical Activity | 2 |
| KINES 314 | Physiology of Exercise | 4 |
| KINES 361 | Motor Learning and Performance | 3 |
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Students may exempt from KINES 116 First Aid and Basic Life Support by completing American Red Cross First Aid AND either American Red Cross Basic Life Support or American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers, enroll here.
If a student wishes to request that a different course (or courses) be considered, contact the Department of Kinesiology undergraduate office PRIOR to enrolling.
Physical Education Courses
Effective for Fall, 2023 program admission.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| KINES 121 | Foundations of Physical Education | 2 |
| KINES 315 | Assessment and Research in Physical Activity Pedagogy | 3 |
| KINES 316 | Adapted Physical Activity | 3 |
| KINES 325 | Group Development and Behavior Management | 3 |
| KINES 327 | Current Topics in Outdoor Pursuits | 1 |
| KINES 353 | Health and Physical Education in a Multicultural Society | 3 |
| KINES 372 | Methods and Practicum of Teaching PK-5 Physical Education | 4 |
| KINES 373 | Methods and Practicum of Teaching 6-12 Physical Education | 4 |
| KINES 478 | Elementary School Physical Education Student Teaching | 6 |
| KINES 479 | Middle School or High School Physical Education Student Teaching | 6 |
Professional Education Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Learning (Minimum of 3 credits) | ||
| ED PSYCH 301 | How People Learn | 3 |
| Foundations of the Profession: (Minimum of 3 credits) | ||
| ED POL 300 | School and Society | 3 |
| or ED POL/HISTORY 412 | History of American Education | |
Additional Certification Options
Physical Education students are encouraged to increase their content knowledge and teaching capabilities through additional training. Although not required, teaching certifications are available in Health Education and Adapted Physical Education. Students may pursue more than one additional certification.
Continuation Requirement: Department of Kinesiology
All students admitted to undergraduate programs in the Department of Kinesiology, including Physical Education, must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.75, based on all UW–Madison campus course work. Consult the School of Education's Academic Policies and Procedures for additional information about the continuation requirement.
GPA and Other Graduation Requirements
Graduation Requirements
Based on UW–Madison coursework.
- 2.75 cumulative grade point average. This may be modified by the Last 60 Credits Rule.
- 2.75 cumulative grade point average across all professional education courses (excluding practicum and student teaching).
- 2.75 cumulative grade point average in the major.
- A minimum of 120 credits.
- Major residency: Degree candidates must complete at least 15 credits of upper-level major coursework (numbered 300–699) in residence on the UW–Madison campus.
- Senior residency: Degree candidates must complete their last 30 credits in residence on the UW–Madison campus. Student teaching and practicum are considered part of the 30 credits.
Degree Audit (DARS)
UW–Madison uses “DARS” to document a student's progress toward the completion of their degree, including any additional majors and certificates. A DARS (Degree Audit Reporting System) report shows all the requirements for completing a degree and, against courses that are planned or completed, shows the requirements that have been met, and those that are unmet. A report can offer suggestions about courses that may be taken to meet specific requirements and can assist in the academic planning and enrollment process. Students can access a DARS report in the Course Search & Enroll app or Student Center via My UW.
DARS also has a "what-if" function. This feature makes it possible to request a DARS report as if pursuing another program, major, or certificate. It is an excellent tool if considering a new or additional area of study. School of Education students in a pre-professional classification such as Pre-Elementary (PRE) or Pre-Kinesiology should request a "what if" DARS report of their professional program of interest. For example, Pre-Elementary Education (PRE) students will request Elementary Education K-9; Pre-Kinesiology (PKN) students will request the Kinesiology report. Minors have their own DARS programs and are run separately from the main degree audit.
More information (including tutorials) on how to request and read regular and what-if DARS reports is available under the Resources tab on the Office of the Registrar’s website.
DARS is not intended to replace student contact with academic advisors. It creates more time in an advising appointment to discuss course options, research opportunities, graduate school, or issues of personal interest or concern to students.
DARS is used as the document of record for degree program, major, and certificate completion in the School of Education.
Additional Certification Requirements and Applying for a License
In addition to completing UW-Madison's program requirements, students must also complete Wisconsin statutory requirements and certification requirements established by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Many of these requirements are embedded within the program's requirements and require no additional attention. The endorsement of the program coordinator/faculty is also required to receive certification through UW–Madison.
The State of Wisconsin requires that anyone wishing to teach in a public K–12 setting hold a valid teaching license issued through the Department of Public Instruction. In addition to completing a certification program, students must submit a separate application for this license.
Detailed information about certification requirements and applying for a license is available under Certification/Licensure.
Learning Outcomes
- Standard 1: Scientific Foundational Knowledge. Physical education candidates demonstrate an understanding of scientific foundations for the delivery of an effective preK-12 physical education program.
- Standard 2: Physical Education Foundational Knowledge. Physical education candidates demonstrate an understanding of theoretical foundations for the delivery of an effective preK-12 physical education program.
- Standard 3: Physical Education Content Knowledge. Physical education candidates understand physical education content, concepts and skills associated with the development of a physically educated student.
- Standard 4: Planning for Instruction. Physical education candidates plan developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with local, state and/or SHAPE America National Standards and Grade-Level Outcomes for K-12 Physical Education.
- Standard 5: Instructional Delivery and Management. Physical education candidates engage students in meaningful learning experiences through effective use of pedagogical skills. They use communication, feedback, and instructional and managerial skills to enhance student learning.
- Standard 6: Assessment of Student Learning. Physical education candidates select and implement appropriate assessments to monitor students’ progress and guide decision making related to instruction and learning that do not marginalize students.
- Standard 7: Technology. Physical education candidates select and implement a variety of technologies to enhance learning, as well as personal and professional productivity.
- Standard 8: Social-Emotional Learning and Trauma Based Practices. Physical education candidates understand and utilize a variety of practices critical to SEL and positive mental health outcomes.
- Standard 9: Professional Responsibility. Physical education candidates demonstrate behaviors essential to becoming effective professionals.
Four-Year Plan
Physical Education – Sample Four-Year Plan
This sample four-year sample graduation plan is designed to guide your course selection throughout your academic career; it does not establish a contractual agreement. Use it along with your DARS report, the Guide, and the Course Search and Enroll app to create a four-year plan reflecting your placement scores, incoming credits, and individual interests. Consult with your academic advisor(s) to develop a personalized plan of study and refer to the Guide for a complete list of requirements. You will likely revise your plan several times during your academic career here, based on your activities and changing academic interests.
| Freshman | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 121 | 2 | KINES 116 | 2 |
| Communication A | 3 | CHEM 108 | 5 |
| POLI SCI 104 | 4 | MATH 112 | 3 |
| Liberal Studies coursework | 6 | Liberal Studies coursework | 3 |
| General Electives | 2 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Sophomore | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 325 | 3 | KINES 315 | 3 |
| ED PSYCH 301 | 3 | KINES 316 | 3 |
| Liberal Studies coursework | 6 | KINES 327 | 1 |
| General Elective | 4 | ANAT&PHY 337 | 3 |
| General Electives | 5 | ||
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Junior | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 308 | 2 | KINES 372 | 4 |
| KINES 353 | 3 | ANAT&PHY 235 | 4 |
| KINES 361 | 3 | Liberal Studies coursework | 3 |
| General Electives | 7 | General Electives | 5 |
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Senior | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| KINES 314 | 4 | KINES 478 | 6 |
| KINES 373 | 4 | KINES 479 | 6 |
| ED POL/HISTORY 412 (Also meets U.S./European History) | 3 | ||
| General Electives | 5 | ||
| 16 | 12 | ||
| Total Credits 120 | |||
Advising and Careers
Physical Education Advising
Prospective off-campus and on-campus Physical Education students will meet with Prof. Michael Norris in the Department of Kinesiology. Students considering this major should schedule an appointment with Dr. Norris as soon as possible. Pre-declaration advising is conducted by the Department of Kinesiology and staff in the School of Education Student Services office, see below.
Students with either a pre-certification (PED) or certification (BSPE) classification are required to meet with their department advisor at least once per semester. Mandatory advising meetings are conducted every semester, just before enrollment begins for the following semester.
Academic Advising in the School of Education
Dedicated to supporting and promoting student success, academic advisors are here to assist students with the adjustment to college, understanding their degree and career goals, and connecting them to resources. Advisors support prospective and current School of Education students in all programs through:
- Course selection
- Mentoring and advocacy for underrepresented and international students
- Understanding degree requirements and progression
- Interpreting academic policies
- Helping students recognize their strengths and suggesting ways to expand their skills
- Expanding learning through activities such as study abroad, volunteering/work/internship, and by assuming leadership roles
Advising appointments are available in person, virtually, or over the phone. Current students schedule appointments through the Starfish app in MyUW. Appointments can also be made by calling 608-262-1651, or in person in Room 139 Education Building.
Academic Dean Support staff are also here for you when facing academic or personal challenges. We provide undergraduate School of Education students support, problem-solving, advocacy, resources, and approve exceptions to policies.
Career Advising in the School of Education
Through individual appointments, events, courses, and online resources, the Career Center provides students and alumni with the tools needed to be successful in their career development.
Career and Internship Advisors are prepared to help students with:
- Exploration of career and academic pathways
- Resumes
- Cover letters
- Job/Internship search
- Interview preparation
- Mock interviews
- Graduate school search, applications and decisions
- Negotiating job or internship offers
- Professional networking
- Connecting with employers
Students are encouraged to meet with their Career and Internship Advisor early in their college experience to take full advantage of the resources and support available.
To make an appointment: log into Starfish from the MyUW dashboard.
For more information, visit the School of Education Career Center website or reach out at career-center@education.wisc.edu.
Wisconsin Experience
UW–Madison’s vision for the total student experience, the Wisconsin Experience, combines learning in and out of the classroom. Tied to the Wisconsin Idea and steeped in long-standing institutional values — the commitment to the truth, shared participation in decision-making, and service to local and global communities — the Wisconsin Experience describes how students develop and integrate these core values across their educational experience.
UW–Madison encourages students to mindfully engage in four core concepts throughout their time on campus: Empathy & Humility, Relentless Curiosity, Intellectual Confidence, and Purposeful Action.
Since its inception, the School of Education has embraced the concepts of the Wisconsin Experience, providing opportunities for students to learn in venues beyond the traditional classroom. Our students also independently seek out related activities and experiences, thus creating their own unique Wisconsin Experience.
Physical Education and the Wisconsin Experience
On-Campus Activities and Experiences
Homeschool Physical Education
Physical Education students in an elementary PE methods course provide an eight-week physical education program for local homeschool students. This experience is a win-win for both groups, as PE students practice their teaching skills while homeschool students get the vital motor and social skill development they need.
Participation in the Virginia Horne Henry PE History Project
Current students met with Physical Education alumni to share stories, learn about the rich program history, and establish new traditions to enhance the program.
Off-Campus Activities and Experience
Camp Courageous
Students completing the Adapted Physical Education minor volunteer for a weekend as camp counselors at Camp Courageous, working one to one with campers with disabilities. The students provide activities such as a scavenger hunt, support in the pool for aquatic activities, and other adventures like ziplining with their camper.
Walk for Autism (Fitchburg, WI)
Students enrolled in several Adapted Physical Education minor courses participate in the annual Walk for Autism, hosted by The Autism Society of Wisconsin - Madison. They help organize equipment and supplies prior to the walk and make posters supporting the children and families participating in the event. All student volunteers are posted around the walking track to guide and cheer on the walkers.
Team Building Activities
In KINES 325 Group Development and Behavior Management, students develop and plan team-building activities. The students then visit a local elementary school to teach these activities and help students develop positive social and emotional skills.
Teaching in Area Schools
Students in physical education courses provide physical education and social skill development in area schools.
Partnering with Boys & Girls Club of Dane County
Physical Education students and staff provide training on the implementation of social and emotional learning for after-school staff.
Volunteering to Support Local Programs
Students volunteer with the Madison School and Community Recreation Department in a variety of sports and activities and assist in numerous capacities with the Adapted Sports Program at Sun Prairie Area School District.
Multicultural Field Experience
As part of KINES 353 Health and Physical Education in a Multicultural Society, students complete the Multicultural Field Experience in which they work with individuals from a cultural background different than their own. Placements for the MFE have included assisting teachers in school health or physical education classes, volunteering with an after-school program through Madison School and Community Recreation, and supporting a community organization.
Additional Activities and Accomplishments
Student Organizations and Memberships
Students have organized the local Physical Education Club on campus and have memberships with Wisconsin Health and Physical Education.
Additional Certifications
In addition to the Physical Education major, most students also complete the Adapted Physical Education minor and/or the Health Education minor.
State Association Leadership Positions - Wisconsin Health and Physical Education
Several students have served as Future Professionals President and Vice President with Wisconsin Health and Physical Education (WHPE). They have also served as Future Professionals Secretary and Treasurer. Additionally, they have served as the Future Professionals representative on the Leadership Council for the Midwest District of the Society of Health and Physical Educators, the parent body of the WHPE association.
Professional Presentations and Workshops
Students are active participants as presenters at the Wisconsin Health and Physical Education Convention, Best Practices in Health and Physical Education Conference, Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) Convention, and UW–Madison Undergraduate Symposium. Students also participated in the Society for Public Health Education/CDC sponsored Skills-Based Health Education Workshop implemented by Health Education faculty and students in the spring.
Let's Talk - First Year Teacher Program
Physical Education staff and retirees partner with first-year alums to help them incorporate social and emotional learning across their Physical Education curriculum and provide a place to debrief as they go through their first year or two of teaching.
Study Abroad Courses
- In 2023-2025, the Department of Kinesiology began offering a summer study-abroad course in Costa Rica for PE students. The study abroad was designed to enhance the group development skills of its participants while engaging in various activities to encourage group and team development by white-water rafting, ziplining, and hiking. The course linked to this experience, KINES 325 Group Development and Behavior Management, encourages students to learn and practice social and emotional learning and apply it in a group setting. These outdoor pursuits and group activities provide opportunities for conversations, discussions, and processing. Each day during the trip also provides opportunities to not only explore the Pura Vida (Pure Life) of Costa Rica, but also to engage in personal reflection. Participants experience the process of growing together as a community and develop skills to create lasting communities in their personal and professional lives. Students earn credit for KINES 325, a required course in the Physical Education program.
- Anticipated study abroad destinations include a return to Costa Rica, and also consideration for developing opportunities in Brazil in 2028, or Botswana in 2029.
Certification/Licensure
Additional Certification Requirements
In addition to completing UW–Madison's program requirements, certification also requires the completion of Wisconsin statutory requirements related to teacher education and certification requirements established by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Students must complete all requirements and also obtain the endorsement of the program faculty to receive certification through UW–Madison. For a description of additional certification requirements and information about applying for a license, see the Mary T. Kellner Teacher Education Center.
Professional Certification/Licensure Disclosure (NC-SARA)
The United States Department of Education (via 34 CFR Part 668) requires institutions that provide distance education to disclose information for programs leading to professional certification or licensure. The expectation is that institutions will determine whether each applicable academic program meets state professional licensure requirements and provide a general disclosure of such on an official university website.
Professional licensure requirements vary from state-to-state and can change year-to-year; they are established in a variety of state statutes, regulations, rules, and policies; and they center on a range of educational requirements, including degree type, specialized accreditation, total credits, specific courses, and examinations.
UW-Madison has taken reasonable efforts to determine whether this program satisfies the educational requirements for certification/licensure in states where prospective and enrolled students are located and is disclosing that information as follows.
Disclaimer: This information is based on the most recent annual review of state agency certification/licensure data and is subject to change. All students are strongly encouraged to consult with the individual/office listed in the Contact Information box on this page and with the applicable state agency for specific information.
The requirements of this program meet certification/licensure requirements in the following states:
Wisconsin
The requirements of this program do not meet certification/licensure requirements in the following states:
Not applicable
Updated: 1 June 2026
Resources and Scholarships
Information about scholarships, academic and career advising, study abroad opportunities, student well-being, and other resources for students in the School of Education can be found on the School's Resources page.