Why Study Physical Education at OCC?
Make an impact that lasts a lifetime by helping students build confidence, teamwork, and healthy habits through movement and physical activity. As a future physical education teacher, you won’t just teach sports – you will shape how students think about fitness and wellness throughout their lifetime. At Ocean County College, you can start your path toward becoming a health and physical education teacher who inspires students and athletes both in and beyond the gym.
Note: The State of New Jersey requires a 3.0 Grade Point Average for any certification candidate.
What You Will Learn
The physical education concentration is designed for students who want to teach health and physical education in the K-12 setting. Students build a foundation in health, human movement, and child development through experiential learning. Coursework emphasizes promoting lifelong fitness and healthy behaviors. This program prepares students for transfer to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s degree and state certification in health and physical education.
Core skills and competencies include:
- Child and adolescent development fundamentals
- Foundations of human movement and motor skills
- Lifelong fitness and healthy behavior promotion
- Strategies for teamwork and character building
- Inclusive physical activity and sports instruction
- Management of safe learning environments
Where Passion Becomes a Career
Physical Education majors typically pursue careers in K–12 education as physical education teachers, coaching, or athletic training, helping students develop fitness, health, and motor skills. Graduates also find opportunities in fitness and wellness instruction, recreational program management, and sports coaching, with some advancing to study in kinesiology, exercise science, or sports management.
Transfer Opportunities
Credits earned at Ocean County College transfer to four-year colleges and universities, giving students the flexibility to continue their education at accredited institutions.
Connect with our Transfer Services team to ensure a smooth path to your bachelor’s degree.
At A Glance
Length
60 credit hours
~2 Years to Complete
Cost
For Ocean County Residents
Summer – $206 per credit
Effective Fall – $216.00 per credit
Modality
In Person
Academic Pathways
This program is designed to transfer. Where you go next is up to you! After earning your degree at OCC, seamlessly transfer your credits to a four-year college or university, setting the stage for continued academic and career success.
Associate
Build a solid foundation in human movement and child development, mastering the instructional methods and health principles needed to promote lifelong fitness and positive behaviors in a K-12 setting.
Bachelors
Transfer to a four-year institution to complete your degree and earn state certification in health and physical education, preparing for professional roles in public or private school systems.
Career
Prepare for a rewarding career as a certified educator or coach, where you will inspire students to develop healthy habits, teamwork, and confidence through physical activity and wellness education.
Have any Questions?
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