If you're passionate about helping K-12 students develop the skills, habits and attitudes necessary to promote lifelong health and wellness, check out our experiential and research-informed program in physical education. You'll connect current educational theories and research to real-world, contemporary experiences. We recommend a minor or endorsement in a second teaching area; many physical education majors complete a minor in health education. The College of Education is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation to offer teacher education programs which are approved by the Illinois State Board of Education.
We embrace a holistic approach in physical education that focuses on "the whole child," preparing our graduates to impact the social and emotional development, as well as the cognitive and behavioral changes of their students. KNPE 466 (Field Experience at Outdoor Environments), for example, transports our P.E. majors to our Lorado Taft Field Campus, one of the premier outdoor education facilities in the country, for an experience as outdoor educators for elementary school children. This unique experience builds our students' confidence and bolsters their résumés.
The NIU College of Education embeds diverse, real-world learning opportunities in physical education programs, offering you valuable experiences you won't get anywhere else.
NIU's annual Educators' Job Fair brings school districts from throughout the state and around the country to interview for teaching positions. Our students and alumni are admitted free and are offered an extended open session time with recruiters. It's a great way to practice your professional communication skills and learn about employment opportunities, with the possibility of invitation-only interviews at the event.
My professors are setting me up for success and making me feel like I'm at home. They give me so many opportunities to prepare myself in a school environment, to learn from physical education teachers in the DeKalb area and allowing me to become more comfortable and confident when I introduce content to my students and peers. Practice makes perfect!
Triston Kelley, physical education major
The NIU College of Education and the amazing professors are so invested. They really care about students and want to see you succeed. They are always willing to help because they want you to be your best.
Kirstin Dore, physical education major
Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education
Anderson Hall 221
DeKalb, IL 60115
P: 815-753-1407
F: 815-753-1413
knpe@niu.edu