Physical Education, A.A.
The Physical Education A.A. degree program provides a comprehensive foundation in physical activity, health, and wellness. Designed for students planning to transfer to four-year institutions or pursue careers in fitness, recreation, or health promotion, this program prepares you to make a positive impact on individual and community health.
What Can You Do with a Physical Education Degree?
While the A.A. degree primarily prepares students for transfer, it also provides a
strong foundation for careers in fitness instruction, coaching, recreation management,
or health promotion. Graduates can work as personal trainers, fitness instructors,
sports coaches, or wellness coordinators, helping individuals and communities achieve
healthier lifestyles and active living.
Graduates with an A.A. in Physical Education often transfer to four-year colleges
to pursue bachelor鈥檚 degrees in exercise science, sports management, or health education.
Additionally, there are entry-level opportunities in fitness training, recreation
coordination, health promotion, and community wellness programs. As health awareness
continues to grow, careers in fitness and recreation are expected to remain stable
and rewarding.
Suggested Curriculum
The courses below are recommended as part of your program of study. Please work with
your Academic Advisor to select the courses that are right for you and your educational
goals.
Area A: Communications (9 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900) - with a grade of C or better
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (9 credits)
Select three courses from Area B with at least one course from humanities and one from fine arts. For Illinois teacher licensure, select one English course numbered 200 or above. ART 131, ENG 243, HUMAN 101, or PHILO 205 recommended to meet the non-Western Cultures requirement at some senior institutions.
Area C: Mathematics (3 credits)
Select one math course from the list for Area C
- MATH 115 General Education Statistics (M1 902)
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (7-8 credits)
Select one life science course and one physical science course from the list for Area D. One course must have a lab component. It is recommended that both courses have a lab for the Illinois teaching licensure.
- BIOL 111 Cellular and Molecular Biology (IAI: BIO 910; L1 910L) recommended
- PHYSI 120 College Physics I (P1 900L) recommended
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (9 credits)
Select three courses in at least two different disciplines from the list for Area E including:
- PSYCH 101 Introduction to Psychology (S6 900)
- PSYCH 102 Human Growth and Development: Life Span (S6 902)
- POLSC 140 Introduction to U.S. Government and Politics (S5 900) or
- HIST 201 U.S. History: 1492 to 1877 (S2 900) or
- HIST 202 U.S. History: 1877 to Present (S2 901) recommended for Illinois teacher licensure.
-
BIOL 221 Human Anatomy and Physiology I
-
BIOL 222 Human Anatomy and Physiology II
-
ED 100 Foundations of American Public Education
Select additional courses from the list of Courses Approved for Transfer or contact the universities you are considering.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a 91重口 advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
Do more with your Degree
Maximize your educational opportunities by exploring our Online programs and personalized
Academic Counseling. Discover how you can expand your credentials and successfully
transition to your next academic goal.
AcademicsOnline Learning
Experience flexible learning with Prairie State College鈥檚 online courses. Study from
anywhere at your own pace and achieve your goals with quality education and support.
Start today and advance your future on your schedule.
Student ResourcesAcademic Advising
Need guidance on your academic journey? Reach out to our dedicated academic advisors!
Whether you're choosing the right classes, planning your transfer, or exploring career
options, our advisors are here to support you every step of the way. Don't wait鈥攃ontact
us today to stay on track and achieve your goals!
