2026 How to Become a Physical Education Teacher in Montana

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Montana dances to the rhythm of active lifestyles, with over 60% of its youth engaging in regular physical activity, making it a fertile ground for passionate physical education teachers. The demand for educators who can inspire movement and wellness is rising, fueled by a growing focus on combating childhood obesity and promoting lifelong health. A career in physical education here offers the exhilarating opportunity to shape the state’s future athletes and mindful movers in open skies and vibrant classrooms.

This article dives into the precise steps required to become a physical education teacher in Montana. Crafted by seasoned career planning experts, it distills essential licensing, educational prerequisites, and local nuances to empower aspiring teachers with clear, actionable insights for successful entry into this vital profession.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Physical Education Teacher in Montana

Earn a Bachelor’s degree with a PE teaching endorsement—Montana requires coursework in health, kinesiology, and pedagogy for licensure.
Pass the Montana Educator Licensure Assessments including the Praxis II for Physical Education to demonstrate content mastery and teaching skills.
Complete a supervised student teaching semester; Montana reports a steady demand for PE teachers, fueled by growing youth sports programs encouraging active lifestyles.

What are the education requirements to become a physical education teacher in Montana?
What skills are essential for physical education teachers in Montana?
Do PE teachers in Montana need a teaching license?
How do you get certified as a PE teacher in Montana?
Can out-of-state teachers transfer their license to Montana for PE teaching?
How long does it take to become a PE teacher in Montana?
How much does it cost to become a PE teacher in Montana?
How Can Professional Development Boost Career Prospects for PE Teachers in Montana?
Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in Montana?
Is there demand for physical education teachers in Montana?
What is the average salary of a PE teacher in Montana?

What are the education requirements to become a physical education teacher in Montana?

In Montana, preparing to become a physical education teacher involves more than just enthusiasm for sports or fitness; it demands a robust educational foundation that blends science, health, and pedagogy. This ensures future educators can craft dynamic PE programs that nurture lifelong wellness and adapt seamlessly to Montana’s diverse student landscape.

Below are the essential education requirements for PE teachers in Montana, designed to build expertise and resilience in teaching physical education.

Bachelor’s Degree in a Relevant Field: A core step is earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education, kinesiology, health enhancement, or exercise science. This degree equips students with comprehensive knowledge in human movement, health science, and child development, forming the grounding needed for effective PE instruction aligned with Montana physical education teacher degree requirements.
Completion of a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Beyond the degree, candidates must engage in a teacher preparation program approved by Montana. These programs intertwine theoretical coursework with practical teaching experiences, including supervised student teaching in K-12 schools, fostering real-world readiness.
Coursework Aligned with Standards: Instructional content is aligned with Montana’s Health Enhancement Standards, emphasizing motor skills, physical activity promotion, and social responsibility. This ensures educators are ready to address various student needs, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Grade Requirements for Courses: To maintain high professional standards, students must earn at least a “C” grade in all major-specific courses, verifying their mastery of essential physical education concepts.
Exposure to Professional Development: While continuing education is ongoing, initial training programs highlight the value of lifelong learning. Aspiring teachers benefit from early exposure to professional growth opportunities, helping them stay current with best practices.

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What skills are essential for physical education teachers in Montana?

In Montana’s varied educational landscape, physical education teachers must ignite enthusiasm, foster lifelong healthy habits, and skillfully navigate classrooms teeming with diversity. These essential skills create the backbone of effective teaching that embraces every student’s potential, whether in a bustling urban district or a remote rural school.

To thrive as a physical education teacher in Montana, mastering a specific set of capabilities is paramount. Here are the crucial skills that define success in this dynamic role:

Effective Communication: Clear, motivational communication acts as the lifeline between teacher and student. PE teachers craft messages that cross cultural and ability divides, ensuring instructions inspire action and feedback cultivates growth in every learner.
Leadership and Classroom Management: Leading means more than directing activities; it’s about embodying respect and teamwork. Managing safety and behavior in unpredictable, active environments keeps the space inclusive and engaging for all participants.
Adaptability and Flexibility: From changing weather to diverse physical abilities, adaptability transforms challenges into opportunities. Montana PE teachers tailor lessons on the fly, reshaping activities and learning goals to meet each classroom’s unique rhythm.
Expertise in Fitness, Health, and Safety: A deep grasp of physical fitness principles and health education enables teachers to design programs that meet state standards and inspire lifelong wellness. Knowledge about nutrition, disease prevention, and motor skills enriches student experiences while fulfilling Montana’s rigorous requirements.
Assessment and Instructional Planning: Skilled PE teachers use thoughtful assessment to shape personalized lesson plans that truly develop motor skills and health literacy. This data-driven approach ensures every student steadily advances toward meaningful state learning outcomes.
Community Engagement and Resource Utilization: Harnessing connections with local health agencies and professional networks expands opportunities beyond the gym. Montana's PE teachers build bridges that support student growth and community wellness, enhancing their role as health advocates.

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Do PE teachers in Montana need a teaching license?

Licensing requirements act as the invisible framework that shapes the quality and consistency of physical education in Montana’s schools, ensuring every student benefits from skilled guidance. In this dance of standards and qualifications, the state’s licensing system functions as a gatekeeper, blending rigorous academic preparation with practical teaching artistry, so classes move beyond mere exercise to nurture lifelong well-being.

In Montana’s public schools, holding a state-issued teaching license is non-negotiable for physical education teachers. The journey involves earning a bachelor’s degree embedded with an approved teacher preparation program, completing student teaching, and navigating the state’s tiered licensing path—from the provisional Class 5 License, for those still polishing components like the Praxis exam, up to the full Class 2 Standard License.

This layered system guarantees teachers arrive equipped with a solid grasp of exercise science, child development, and pedagogy—skills essential for fostering health in young learners.

Private schools and alternative education spaces sketch a different picture. While many embrace the state license as a mark of credibility, Montana law leaves room for flexibility; teaching licenses are not strictly mandatory for all these settings. This latitude means some institutions consider alternative qualifications—like degrees in physical education, relevant experience, or specialized certifications—sufficient.

Nonetheless, this variance shapes career pathways starkly: licensed educators unlock broader access to stable, full-time roles in public schools and enjoy a competitive edge even in private institutions, while those without licenses navigate narrower, often less secure, professional waters.

How do you get certified as a PE teacher in Montana?

Certification is the gateway through which Montana shapes its physical education teachers into champions of student health and wellness. It safeguards the promise that every PE teacher stepping onto the gym floor or playing field is armed with the knowledge, skills, and cultural awareness necessary to inspire lifelong fitness.

The process molds candidates into educators ready to nurture both body and mind, balancing tradition with innovation. Below are the essential steps Montana sets forth to ensure quality physical education instruction.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates pursue a degree in physical education, kinesiology, or a related area from an accredited college, building a foundation in anatomy, physiology, and teaching methods vital to the profession.
Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: This involves coursework paired with hands-on student teaching experiences, sharpening classroom strategies and curriculum delivery specifically for PE.
Pass Required State Exams: While Montana skips a specific PE content exam, candidates must complete the state’s Indian Education for All course to affirm cultural competence in their teaching practice.
Submit to a Criminal Background Check: Fingerprinting and background screening help protect Montana’s students and ensure trustworthy educators.
Apply for Montana Teaching Licensure: Candidates compile transcripts, verification of program completion, and other documentation to formally join the professional ranks under licensure classes matching their preparation level.
Engage in Professional Development and Renewal: Certification is an ongoing journey, with continuing education required to stay abreast of best practices and maintain licensure.

A PE teacher from Montana, who graduated from a local university, shared his reflections on this journey. He described the demanding dance of balancing coursework with student teaching, where each lesson plan felt like crafting a new way to move young minds and bodies.

“The Indian Education course was eye-opening,” he said, emphasizing how it deepened his respect for Montana’s cultural diversity and expanded his role beyond just physical fitness. Navigating the licensure paperwork required patience and precision, but it also marked the moment his dream took shape officially.

He remembers the reassurance brought by the background check, knowing it was part of building trust with his future students and their families. For him, certification wasn’t simply a bureaucratic hurdle but a rite of passage transforming aspiration into meaningful impact on Montana’s youth.

Can out-of-state teachers transfer their license to Montana for PE teaching?

Montana does extend a hand to out-of-state teachers looking to step into physical education classrooms, but it’s not a simple handshake—it’s more like a firm grip with a few extra steps. The state participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, allowing many teachers to transfer their licenses without retaking exams.

Yet, Montana demands dedication to its unique educational landscape by requiring completion of an online course titled “An Introduction to Indian Education for All in Montana.” This isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a deep dive into the state’s cultural integration in education.

If you haven’t completed this course before applying, expect to receive a temporary Class Five Provisional License. That gives you up to three years to fulfill this and any other state-specific requirements while you’re already in the classroom.

Teachers with a bachelor’s degree and a valid out-of-state license can apply for the Class Two Standard License, while those with a master’s degree and some experience might qualify for the Class One Professional License. Along with proving your credentials, you'll also need to provide transcripts and pass a background check.

While Montana usually waives new testing for experienced reciprocal license holders, it reserves the right to require extra coursework if gaps appear.

For PE teachers boldly relocating to Montana, these rules create a path paved with both caution and opportunity. The mandatory Indian Education course emphasizes the state's commitment to honoring Native American heritage—a non-negotiable piece of your professional puzzle.

The provisional license acts as a bridge, preventing a career pause and letting you hit the ground running in Montana’s schools. This three-year window to clear requirements is a lifeline, but it’s also a timer: failing to upgrade your license before it expires means losing teaching eligibility.

So, while the process isn’t automatic, it’s designed to blend respect for local culture with practical career continuity, making sure Montana’s PE teachers are ready—both on the field and in the classroom.

How long does it take to become a PE teacher in Montana?

The path to becoming a physical education teacher in Montana is a dynamic progression shaped by education choices, certification hurdles, and hands-on classroom time. How many years to become a PE teacher in Montana can shift based on the route you choose, whether traditional or alternative, but a focused timeline helps chart the way.

Bachelor’s Degree Completion: This foundational stage usually takes about four years of full-time study. Many opt for a health enhancement or physical education major with embedded teacher preparation, merging academic depth with practical readiness.
Teacher Preparation Program: If your bachelor’s lacks a built-in preparation component, expect roughly an additional year to complete a post-baccalaureate teacher preparation program. This bridges the gap between subject mastery and classroom strategy.
Student Teaching Experience: Immersive and essential, student teaching lasts at least one semester, approximately 14 weeks. This hands-on phase sharpens skills under supervision, turning theory into practice within real K-12 settings.
State Certification and Examination: Navigating Montana’s certification mists takes several weeks to a few months post-education. Applications, exam passes, and paperwork create a final checkpoint before entering the teaching arena.
Alternative and Provisional Licensing: A less trodden path, provisional licensure lets candidates begin teaching while wrapping up requirements. This flexibility can either compress or stretch your timeline depending on individual circumstances.

For those exploring PE teacher education requirements in Montana, the journey often totals around four to five years. This includes earning your degree, acquiring teaching experience, and securing certification.

Those holding a bachelor’s in a different area might need extra coursework to align with licensure standards. If you’re also curious about adjacent education paths, you might find information on what is the most affordable elementary education online program a useful resource.

How much does it cost to become a PE teacher in Montana?

Becoming a physical education teacher in Montana involves navigating a landscape of expenses that shape the overall investment required. Tuition, certification tests, and licensing fees each play a significant role in the cost of PE teacher certification in Montana, demanding careful financial planning.

Below is an exploration of the primary cost components you should anticipate.

Tuition for Bachelor’s Degree: The cornerstone of this career path is earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education or a related field, typically from a Montana public university. In-state students usually face annual tuition between $6,000 and $8,000, while out-of-state students encounter a steeper price tag ranging from $16,000 to $25,000, making the total for residents $24,000 to $32,000 over four years.
PE Teacher Preparation Program Expenses: Embedded within your degree program, this component provides essential teaching methodologies and practicum experiences. Although often included in tuition, expect potential extra fees from $200 up to $1,000 for specialized workshops or student teaching placements that polish your preparation.
Licensing and Exam Fees: Securing your Montana teaching license requires paying application costs of $30–$35 and passing necessary exams like Praxis, which cost between $90 and $150 per test. Add fingerprinting and background checks, typically $30 to $50, to these vital expenses.
Additional Costs for Books and Materials: The unseen but crucial extras—textbooks, educational materials, and fees for technology or transportation—can add $800 to $1,200 yearly to your budget. These round out the full spectrum of expenses for becoming a PE teacher in Montana.

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How Can Professional Development Boost Career Prospects for PE Teachers in Montana?

In Montana, continuing education and targeted training play a pivotal role in advancing a career in physical education. PE teachers can enhance their expertise through specialized workshops, state-sponsored mentorship programs, and advanced certifications designed to refine instructional strategies and leadership skills. These professional development opportunities empower educators to transition into roles such as curriculum coordinators, athletic directors, or administrative positions while staying current with emerging trends in health and wellness education. For more detailed guidance on career timelines, consider reviewing how long does it take to become a teacher in Montana.

Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in Montana?

Covering the costs of becoming a physical education teacher in Montana demands more than just passion—it requires financial strategies that unlock educational doors. Scholarships and aid lighten this load, turning expenses into stepping stones for future educators ready to inspire the next generation.

Federal and State Financial Aid: Montana students can claim Pell Grants, FSEOG, and federal loans through FAFSA. State grants and tuition waivers reward those committing to teach within Montana’s schools.
Institutional Scholarships: Universities offer targeted scholarships, like merit-based awards and specific PE scholarships, designed to support education majors and foster diversity.
Teaching Grants and Loan Forgiveness: TEACH Grants reward service in high-need areas with up to $4,000 annually, while Public Service Loan Forgiveness erases loan debt after ten years of qualifying teaching work.
Community and Professional Grants: Local foundations and organizations provide funds for both aspiring and current PE teachers, supporting their educational and professional growth.

When I spoke with a PE teacher from Montana who graduated from a local college, she shared how navigating scholarships felt like a scavenger hunt at first.

“I remember applying for nearly every award I qualified for, not knowing which would come through,” she said.

The financial aid she secured—from a community foundation’s grant to a university scholarship focused on women in education—helped her avoid crippling debt and stay focused on her goals.

“It wasn’t easy, but the support made teaching not just possible, but exciting,” she reflected, proving that with the right resources, Montana’s future PE teachers can sprint toward success without being tripped up by tuition hurdles.

Is there demand for physical education teachers in Montana?

Montana’s need for physical education instructors is shaped by a trio of powerful forces: shifting school enrollment patterns, vigorous state health initiatives, and an aging teaching workforce edging toward retirement. These elements converge to heighten the importance of qualified professionals ready to step into physical education roles.

As schools embrace holistic wellness programs, the spotlight on PE teachers grows brighter, setting the stage for increased demand.

This demand for PE teachers is most acute in Montana’s public schools, particularly within rural and underserved districts where vacancies linger like stubborn shadows. The shortage is officially recognized for the 2024–2025 academic year and encompasses positions from elementary through high school levels.

While specific Montana job growth data for physical education teacher jobs in Montana remain unreported, national projections anticipate a 12% increase in this field over the coming decade, signaling robust opportunities statewide. Challenges in recruiting are amplified by declining enrollment in teacher preparation programs, but new educators willing to serve in rural areas may find doors swinging wide open.

Such dynamics create fertile ground for aspiring physical education instructors to plant their roots. With steady retirements and an emphasis on health education, demand for PE teachers in Montana promises a fertile job market.

If you’re exploring paths into teaching, be sure to review the list of easiest teaching degrees, which can offer insights into efficient routes to certification. Ultimately, those ready to embrace Montana’s diverse schools will find a profession ripe with opportunity and purpose.

What is the average salary of a PE teacher in Montana?

In Montana, the average salary rises slightly from the national average to approximately $49,828 annually. For those considering a career in physical education within the state, understanding these salary dynamics is essential, as pay reflects not only economic conditions but also career sustainability and growth potential in Montana’s diverse educational landscape.

Here are the main factors influencing PE teacher salaries in Montana:

Years of Experience: Entry-level teachers can expect salaries near $38,280, while seasoned educators may earn upwards of $61,120, demonstrating the clear financial rewards tied to longevity and professional development.
Education Level: Holding advanced degrees such as a master’s often leads to increased pay, with districts implementing tiered salaries that reward higher credentials and additional graduate credits.
School Type (Public vs. Private): Public schools generally offer better salaries and benefits compared to private institutions, reflecting greater funding and larger school infrastructures.
Geographic Location within Montana: Salaries fluctuate significantly, with urban centers like Billings averaging $77,706 and more rural areas or smaller cities offering considerably less, influenced by local budgets and cost of living.

The earning landscape for PE teachers in Montana mirrors the balance between modest state-wide averages and pockets of robust compensation, underscoring both the challenges and intrinsic rewards of serving varied communities across the state.

What Do Physical Education Teachers in Montana Say About Their Career?

Completing my physical education program at Bozeman High School truly set the foundation for a rewarding career. Starting work at a local school in Montana gave me the chance to combine my love for outdoor activities with teaching, using the state’s breathtaking natural surroundings as a backdrop for fitness education. The community here values health and wellness, and it's fulfilling to see students improve not only physically but also in confidence and teamwork. Montana’s commitment to supporting educators means job stability and ongoing professional development opportunities that keep me motivated every day. Katy
Reflecting on my journey after graduating from Billings Academy, what stands out most is the incredible impact I’ve been able to have on students’ lives beyond just physical fitness. Teaching PE in Montana has allowed me to foster a strong sense of community among young people, helping them develop lifelong habits and resilience. The challenges of adapting programs to seasonal changes here have made me more creative and resourceful as an educator. There’s a genuine sense of pride in contributing positively to the well-being of children in this unique environment. Bernie
Starting my career as a PE teacher in a local Montana school was an exciting step into a profession full of potential for growth. Montana’s diverse culture and access to outdoor resources provide a unique platform for integrating adventure-based learning with physical education. The professional development programs available have helped me advance my skills steadily, and I appreciate the state’s support in nurturing educator careers over time. Watching students embrace a healthy lifestyle and seeing the impact on their academic and social lives keeps my passion alive. DeMarcus

References:

How to Become a PE Teacher in Montana | Requirements for PE Teacher Jobs in MT https://www.peteacheredu.org/montana/
Health and Physical Education K-12 BS | MSU Northern https://www.msun.edu/academics/coeasn/program-SE-HPE.aspx
Physical education teacher salary in Montana ‐ CareerExplorer https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/physical-education-teacher/salary/montana/
Educator Licenses https://opi.mt.gov/Educators/Licensure/Educator-Licensure/Educator-Licenses
Montana Teaching License Guide | 2025 Montana Test Prep - Teacher Certification https://teachercertification.com/montana/
Montana Alternative Teaching Certification Requirements https://www.teachercertificationdegrees.com/certification/montana-alternative/
How to Become a Physical Education Teacher - Graduate Programs for Educators https://www.graduateprogram.org/blog/how-to-become-a-physical-education-teacher/
Physical Education Degrees in Montana | Search Degrees – Education Degree https://www.educationdegree.com/programs/physical-education/montana/
Health Enhancement K-12 (Health & Physical Education) Major - Department of Food Systems, Nutrition, and Kinesiology | Montana State University https://www.montana.edu/fsnk/undergrad/healthenhancement/
Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification | University of Montana Western https://www.umwestern.edu/online/post-baccalaureate-teachers-certification/

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Physical Education Teacher in Montana

Can you become a PE teacher in Montana without a teaching degree?

In Montana, becoming a physical education (PE) teacher without a traditional teaching degree is challenging but not impossible. While the standard pathway requires completing an educator preparation program and obtaining a teaching license, alternative routes such as the Provisional License for individuals with expertise in a related field can provide opportunities to teach.

However, candidates typically need to demonstrate subject matter competence and commit to completing education coursework concurrently.

Ultimately, although a formal teaching degree is the most straightforward path, those with relevant experience or academic backgrounds in physical education may still enter the profession through alternative certification, but they must meet state licensing requirements to teach in public schools.

Does Montana offer alternative certification for PE teachers?

Montana does offer alternative certification routes for aspiring Physical Education (PE) teachers, providing flexibility for individuals who have not completed traditional teacher preparation programs.

Candidates typically need to hold a bachelor’s degree and demonstrate proficiency in their subject area before entering an alternative licensure program approved by the state. These programs often include mentoring and professional development components to ensure quality teaching standards.

Overall, Montana’s alternative certification pathways make it easier for those with relevant experience or education to become licensed PE teachers without following the conventional route.

What benefits do physical education teachers in Montana receive?

Physical education teachers in Montana enjoy a range of benefits that contribute to both their professional and personal well-being. They typically receive competitive salaries aligned with state education standards, along with health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave, providing financial stability and security.

In addition, many school districts offer opportunities for professional development and career advancement, ensuring that teachers can continue to grow and improve their skills. Montana’s supportive educational environment and emphasis on community health make it a rewarding place for PE teachers to inspire and impact student wellness.

Can PE teachers in Montana teach other subjects with additional endorsements?

In Montana, physical education teachers typically need the appropriate endorsement to teach their subject, but they are generally required to obtain additional endorsements to teach other subjects legally. Without these additional endorsements, PE teachers are usually not authorized to teach subjects outside their certified area.

However, there may be some flexibility in certain districts or under emergency substitute provisions, although this is not a standard practice. For those looking to expand their teaching opportunities, pursuing endorsements in other areas is advisable to ensure compliance with state regulations and to increase job prospects.