In order to get a physical education degree, you will need to have an understanding of basic anatomy and physiology, or how the human body is constructed and how it works. Personal trainers must often take complicated anatomy tests and be able to name muscle groups, bone structures and other body parts in order to complete their certification, and physical education teachers are responsible for this information and knowledge as well.
Physical education teachers often serve the function of educating students about health, and those who use their physical education degrees to become athletic trainers or work one-on-one with athletes must also understand how to motivate and inspire those they work with to maintain good fitness and nutrition. Those interested in getting a physical education degree must learn methods of health education, including motivational psychology techniques and theories of sport pedagogy, which is the study of how sports education can promote exercise.
In addition to taking specific classes about the human body, you will also have to take general education requirements, as well as classes in education, whether at the high school, elementary, college or professional level, whichever your target area of specialization is. For prospective school instructors, these education classes will be geared toward helping you to teach physical education concepts to children and to motivate them to engage in and participate in sports and other aspects of physical education. Most programs that prepare you for physical education in public schools will also eventually require that you become certified by the state in which you hope to teach.
Depending on what focus you want your physical education degree to take, you will usually need to take courses in one or more sports. For example, PE teachers may take general "team sports" courses that provide a foundational overview and popular coaching methods for different sports taught in schools, including basketball, baseball and soccer. Alternatives to team sports classes include classes in individual sports, swimming, weightlifting and cardiovascular fitness.