Physical Education: Initial Licensure | Springfield College

Physical Education: Initial Licensure

Master of Education or Master of Science
About This Program
Admissions Contact

Rachel Ahlmeyer
Senior Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions and Events
rahlmeyer@springfieldcollege.edu
(413) 748-3383 
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Are you an International Student?
Please contact intladmissions@springfield.edu 
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Program Contacts
Curriculum and Delivery
Start Dates and Duration
  • Start in September (fall semester) or January (spring semester)
  • Courses are offered full time
  • Complete in 4 semesters (pending prerequisites are met)
Graduate Success and Careers
Paying for Your Education
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Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
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Springfield College physical education class in Blake

Inspire Students Throught Movement.

The Springfield College MEd/MS in Physical Education: Initial Licensure is one of the few in the country to offer both a master’s degree as well as initial licensure. Completion of this program will therefore allow graduate students to qualify for initial licensure in elementary physical education (PreK-8) and/or secondary level physical education (5-12).

The program is perfect for students who have earned their undergraduate degrees in fields other than physical education and who wish to complete the Massachusetts teacher licensure requirements in physical education. Completion of this program allows graduate students to qualify for initial licensure at both the elementary and secondary levels.

Through graduate-level content courses and prerequisites that can be taken concurrently with graduate courses, students gain knowledge and prepare for the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure. In methods courses embedded with sequential field-based experiences starting in the first semester, students become more confident and competent teachers. The culminating experience for the program is a full semester student teaching placement. Career outcomes include placements as physical education teachers in grades PreK-12. 

How to Apply:

What job can I get with a master's degree in Physical Education?

A master's degree in Physical Education from Springfield College prepares you for a variety of impactful careers in education and health promotion. Graduates often become physical education teachers, guiding students in developing physical fitness, sports skills, and healthy lifestyle habits. You might also pursue roles as athletic coaches, helping athletes improve their performance and reach their full potential.

 

Data is from the 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics


Preschool Physical Education Teacher
$41,024
Median Salary
4%
Job Projected Growth
23,300+
Job Projected Openings

Preschool teachers educate and care for children younger than age 5 who have not yet entered kindergarten. They teach language, motor, and social skills to young children.



Kindergarten and Elementary Physical Education Teacher
$63,670
Median Salary
1%
Job Projected Growth
11,500+
Job Projected Openings

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers help students learn and apply important concepts. Many teachers use a hands-on approach to help students understand abstract concepts, solve problems, and develop critical-thinking skills. For example, they may demonstrate how to do a science experiment and then have the students conduct the experiment themselves. They may have students work together to solve problems.



High School Physical Education Teacher
$59,000
Median Salary
1%
Job Projected Growth
6,900+
Job Projected Openings

High school teachers generally teach students from the 9th through 12th grades. They usually specialize in one area. They may teach several different classes within their subject area. For example, a high school math teacher may teach algebra, calculus, and/or geometry.

Some high school teachers take on additional responsibilities, such as coaching sports or advising academic clubs, activities that frequently take place before or after school.


“The faculty at Springfield College want students to succeed and give you the same amount of effort that you put in. Faculty will go above and beyond to see that a student succeeds in making this campus feel like one big family.” Drew Brady, Graduate Class of 2025
Drew Brady - Springfield College

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Graduate Financial Aid

Most of our students are eligible for some type of aid, whether a grant, scholarship, or loan.
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