Health and Physical Education
The Health and Physical Education program at Minnesota State Mankato is dedicated to preparing future teachers to educate young learners on the critical importance of physical activity. Through classroom learning and real-world teaching experiences, students gain the expertise to design and execute comprehensive physical education programs that encourage students to commit to health and fitness.
Careers in Health and Physical Education
Students who complete their degree in Health and Physical Education predominantly work in an educational setting teaching health education at the middle school or high school level and/or physical education at the elementary, middle, or high school levels.- Teacher
- Health and Physical Education Teacher
- Coach
- Athletic Trainer
- DAPE Teacher
- Direct Support Professional
Potential Salary
Median Salary $62,860
Health, Physical Education and Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) Degrees at MSU
Health and Physical Education, Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education major prepares future educators for teaching students in Health (grades 5-12) and Physical Education (grades K-12) about how to live a physically active and health enhancing lifestyle.
Physical Education and Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE), Bachelor of Science
The Physical Education-DAPE major prepares teacher candidates to effectively teach PK-12 students, with and without disabilities, about physical literacy to ensure these students have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of healthful physical activity.
Developmental Adapted Physical Education, Minor
The DAPE minor is designed for students who are passionate about making physical education accessible and beneficial for individuals with diverse abilities and needs.
Health and Physical Education, Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education major prepares future educators for teaching students in Health (grades 5-12) and Physical Education (grades K-12) about how to live a physically active and health enhancing lifestyle.
Physical Education and Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE), Bachelor of Science
The Physical Education-DAPE major prepares teacher candidates to effectively teach PK-12 students, with and without disabilities, about physical literacy to ensure these students have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of healthful physical activity.
Developmental Adapted Physical Education, Minor
The DAPE minor is designed for students who are passionate about making physical education accessible and beneficial for individuals with diverse abilities and needs.
Get Involved!
Get involved with local, regional, and national organizations to build connections, develop leadership skills, and gain valuable experience. Whether you join a campus club, attend regional conferences, or connect with national professional groups, there are many ways to expand your network and grow personally and professionally.
Modern Facilities
Experience hands-on learning in state-of-the-art facilities as a Health and Physical Education major at MSU! From Schellberg Gymnasium and Myers Fieldhouse to our cutting-edge Fitness Lab and outdoor spaces, you'll train in real-world settings with top-tier equipment—preparing you to lead with confidence in the classroom and beyond!
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Health and Physical Education Club
The Health and Physical Education Club equips future educators with valuable resources, hands-on learning experiences, and service opportunities to support their professional growth.
Dual Teacher Licensure - DAPE
The Physical Education-DAPE major is the only undergraduate program in Minnesota and the Upper Midwest that leads to dual teacher licensure and a Bachelor of Science degree. This unique program helps meet the growing demand for DAPE teachers in Minnesota.
Related Programs
Applied Health Science
From undergraduate degrees in alcohol and drug studies to public health or public health education, school health education, pre-occupational therapy, pre-athletic training, or pre-health administration, you'll graduate prepared to make an immediate impact in the health science field through one of these rewarding careers.
Family Consumer Science
The Family Consumer Science program trains future professionals to promote family health through degrees in Dietetics, Child Development and Family Studies and Family Consumer Science Education.
Exercise Science
The Exercise Science Program at Minnesota State Mankato is designed to provide a comprehensive, science-based, and human-centered education. With access to renowned educators and the cutting-edge facilities at the Holbrook Exercise Physiology Center, students are encouraged to pursue their big ideas and develop the skills necessary to succeed in the evolving and rewarding field of exercise science.
Social Work
The Department of Social Work at Minnesota State University, Mankato, offers a nurturing and challenging environment for students committed to social justice and improving lives through a professional social work career. Our accredited BSSW and MSW programs provide students with comprehensive training that includes hands-on experiences in real-world settings, preparing graduates to improve lives and foster change in their communities.
Health and Physical Education Department
College of
Allied Health and Nursing
The College of Allied Health and Nursing is a thriving community dedicated to preparing future leaders in nursing, communication sciences and health-related fields. With state-of-the-art learning centers, real-world experiences, clinical practicums and fieldwork and strong community connections, students gain the hands-on training needed for success. Committed to equity and inclusion, we create an environment where all learners can excel and make a meaningful impact in health and wellness.