2026 How to Become a Physical Education Teacher in North Dakota

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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In North Dakota, the demand for physical education teachers is steady, with the state employing approximately 450 specialists in this field as of recent data. This stable employment landscape reflects the state’s commitment to promoting health and wellness among youth.

While some may question whether a teaching career in this area offers sufficient growth, the increasing emphasis on physical fitness in schools suggests ongoing opportunities. Additionally, the profession supports community well-being and development, offering both personal and societal benefits beyond standard job metrics.

This article will explore the steps required to become a physical education teacher in North Dakota. Prepared by experts in career planning, it aims to guide readers through certification, education requirements, and practical advice. The goal is to provide clear, reliable information to assist prospective educators in making informed decisions about their future path.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Physical Education Teacher in North Dakota

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree in physical education or a related field from an accredited institution, meeting North Dakota's Higher Education guidelines.
• Complete state-approved teacher preparation programs, including supervised student teaching experiences, to gain practical skills and classroom management techniques.
• Pass the Praxis exams for physical education to meet North Dakota’s licensure requirements, which are crucial due to the state’s growing demand for qualified physical education teachers in K-12 schools.

Table of Contents

1. What are the education requirements to become a physical education teacher in North Dakota?
2. What skills are essential for physical education teachers in North Dakota?
3. Do PE teachers in North Dakota need a teaching license?
4. How do you get certified as a PE teacher in North Dakota?
5. Can out-of-state teachers transfer their license to North Dakota for PE teaching?
6. How long does it take to become a PE teacher in North Dakota?
7. Are There Ongoing Professional Development Opportunities for PE Teachers in North Dakota?
8. How much does it cost to become a PE teacher in North Dakota?
9. Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in North Dakota?
10. Is there demand for physical education teachers in North Dakota?
11. What is the average salary of a PE teacher in North Dakota?

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

Formal education plays a critical role in preparing educators to design effective physical education programs that promote lifelong wellness among students in North Dakota. It ensures they acquire a comprehensive understanding of exercise science, child development, and modern teaching methods essential for fostering healthy habits.

The following outlines the key academic components that align with the North Dakota physical education teacher degree requirements. To meet the educational standards, aspiring physical education teachers typically need to complete these minimum requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education or Related Field: Candidates must earn a four-year bachelor’s degree in physical education, kinesiology, or a related discipline from a regionally accredited institution. This degree provides foundational knowledge in exercise science and curriculum development necessary for effective teaching.
• Completion of an Approved Teacher Education Program in North Dakota: Enrollment in a state-approved teacher preparation program focused on physical education is essential. This program includes coursework on instructional strategies, classroom management, and assessment methods tailored to K-12 physical education settings.
• Minimum GPA Requirements: Maintaining a satisfactory academic performance, often a minimum GPA of around 2.75 in major courses, is required to advance through these rigorous programs, ensuring readiness for professional responsibilities.
• Supervised Student Teaching Experience: A supervised, full-semester student teaching placement in a K-12 school enables practical application of theory under mentorship. This hands-on experience is vital for skill development and meeting accreditation standards.
• Core Academic Skills Assessment: Passing basic skills assessments or achieving qualifying ACT scores is necessary to demonstrate proficiency in critical areas like reading, writing, and mathematics, supporting effective teaching practice.

For those seeking further advancement, considering options such as the best rated 1 year online masters in education programs can complement their foundational training and expand professional expertise.

What skills are essential for physical education teachers in North Dakota?

Physical education teachers in North Dakota must possess a range of skills to effectively engage students, encourage lifelong healthy habits, and manage increasingly diverse classroom environments. These skills help address varied learner needs while supporting the holistic goals outlined in state standards. Understanding these competencies is essential for those aiming to thrive professionally in the region.

Below are some of the most important essential skills for PE teachers in North Dakota.

• Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is key to explaining activities, safety guidelines, and expectations to students of all ages and backgrounds. Mastering this skill also supports collaboration with parents and colleagues, fostering a community approach to student wellness.
• Leadership and Teamwork: A physical education teacher’s ability to lead by example motivates students to participate and develop respect and cooperation. These competencies help build not only athletic ability but also important life skills such as responsibility and conflict resolution.
• Adaptability and Inclusivity: With North Dakota’s increasingly diverse student population, flexibility in instructional methods is critical. Teachers need to customize lessons to accommodate varied physical abilities, learning styles, and cultural differences, ensuring all students can engage meaningfully and safely.
• Knowledge of Fitness, Health, and Safety: A strong grasp of exercise science, health education, and safety practices is fundamental to promoting lifelong wellness. This includes using technology and current health information to assess students and respond to injuries promptly and ethically.
• Technology Integration: Incorporating digital tools enhances instruction and engagement. Experience with technologies like video analysis and fitness trackers allows teachers to personalize learning and provide timely feedback.
• Professional Ethics and Lifelong Learning: Maintaining ethical standards and committing to ongoing professional development ensures teachers stay aligned with evolving educational best practices and health guidelines.

For those looking to prepare for these roles, exploring the best online education degree program can offer valuable foundational knowledge and practical skills in line with physical education teacher competencies North Dakota demands.

Do PE teachers in North Dakota need a teaching license?

Licensing requirements serve a vital function in maintaining consistent educational standards and ensuring positive outcomes for students in North Dakota. They help create a baseline level of knowledge, skills, and professional conduct for physical education teachers, which contributes directly to the quality of instruction and student development statewide.

In North Dakota public schools, a state teaching license is mandatory for PE teachers. The Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) manages licensing, requiring candidates to earn a bachelor’s degree with an approved teacher preparation program, complete at least 10 weeks of supervised student teaching in physical education, and pass specific Praxis exams.

Additionally, a background check is necessary before a license is granted. Licenses are issued in tiers, starting with an Initial In-State License, progressing to renewal or longer-term options, reflecting growing experience and professional standing. This process ensures that public school PE teachers meet standards tied to professional accountability and public trust.

Private and other non-public educational institutions in North Dakota are not legally bound to require a state teaching license for PE teachers. Many private schools prefer licensed teachers to meet accreditation and quality expectations, but some allow flexible qualifications such as a relevant bachelor’s degree or experience.

Alternate Access Licenses enable candidates lacking formal teaching degrees but holding content-area qualifications to teach temporarily while completing their education requirements.

This variability can result in differences in teacher preparation quality and impacts career options; those with state licensure have wider access to public and often private school positions and better job security, while unlicensed teachers may face restricted opportunities and less stable employment.

How do you get certified as a PE teacher in North Dakota?

Certification serves as a critical benchmark for ensuring physical education teachers in North Dakota possess the knowledge and skills necessary to encourage student fitness and lifelong wellness. It aligns educators with state standards and guarantees that instruction meets consistent quality across schools where physical education is mandated for grades 1 through 10.

The process involves several key components that collectively validate both academic preparation and practical competency. Below are the typical steps to achieve PE teacher certification in North Dakota:

• Complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education or Related Field: Obtain a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution, focusing on physical education, kinesiology, or related disciplines. This academic foundation encompasses coursework designed to address exercise science, pedagogy, and youth development consistent with state expectations.
• Finish a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Enroll in and successfully complete an Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) approved program, which combines theoretical studies with hands-on teaching experiences, including student teaching placements in K–12 physical education.
• Pass Required State Exams: Demonstrate proficiency through exams such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators or acceptable ACT scores. Though North Dakota does not mandate a specific PE licensure test, these assessments ensure foundational academic competence.
• Apply for State Certification: Submit a formal application to the ESPB with official transcripts, evidence of program completion, and exam results, along with background checks and fees. Initial licensure is provisional, lasting two years before eligibility for renewal or upgrading.

One PE teacher from North Dakota, who graduated from a local university, reflected on his certification journey as a mixture of rigorous demands and rewarding milestones. He recalled the challenge of balancing coursework with the intensive student teaching requirement, noting, "The practical hours tested my ability to apply theory in real classrooms, which was daunting but invaluable."

He also described navigating application procedures as “tedious but straightforward,” emphasizing the importance of attention to detail in submitting documents. Despite initial anxieties about exam performance, he highlighted how the process ultimately deepened his confidence in teaching.

“Becoming certified felt like crossing a significant threshold; it wasn’t just about meeting criteria but gaining a professional identity and responsibility toward students’ wellbeing.”

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

North Dakota does not offer full automatic reciprocity for out-of-state physical education teaching licenses. Instead, out-of-state teachers must apply for licensure through North Dakota’s Education Standards and Practices Board, where their credentials are evaluated individually.

Although North Dakota participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, this primarily facilitates the review process and does not guarantee immediate licensure.

Most teachers will need to fulfill additional requirements, which often include passing content or pedagogy exams specific to North Dakota, completing state-mandated coursework such as state history or instructional methods, and undergoing fingerprint-based criminal background checks.

In some cases, where deficiencies exist, the state may issue a temporary or provisional license, allowing educators to teach while completing those requirements. This means that holding a valid PE license from another state alone does not ensure an unrestricted North Dakota license.

The impact of these licensure rules on physical education teachers relocating to North Dakota is significant. Teachers should anticipate a transitional period during which they may work under provisional status while completing extra coursework or passing required exams.

This process can delay full entry into the workforce and requires time and financial investment. Given that North Dakota faces shortages in licensed physical education teachers, especially in rural areas, the state balances the need to recruit qualified educators with maintaining local licensure standards.

Consequently, experienced PE teachers from other states must be prepared for these hurdles, as they serve both to uphold instructional quality and address regional teaching demands. Understanding these conditions helps clarify why transferring a PE license to North Dakota is not a simple transfer but a regulated licensing process tailored to state standards.

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

The timeline to become a physical education teacher in North Dakota depends on various factors, including the chosen degree program, certification steps, and practical experience requirements. While the pathway generally spans multiple years, individual circumstances and program structures may affect the overall duration.

Understanding the typical stages can help clarify how many years to become a PE teacher in North Dakota.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education: A four-year bachelor’s degree in physical education or a related field forms the core foundation. This program covers essential content and teaching methods, often requiring students to meet GPA thresholds before advancing to teacher preparation phases.
• Admission to Teacher Preparation Program: Usually during the second or third undergraduate year, students must meet GPA and foundational exam requirements to enter an approved teacher education program. This step is critical for accessing specialized coursework and supervised practice.
• Teacher Preparation Coursework and Field Experience: Over the final semesters, candidates complete professional education courses alongside practical field experiences. These components are designed to develop teaching skills progressively and typically last two to three semesters.
• Student Teaching: North Dakota requires a minimum of ten weeks of full-time student teaching, providing immersive classroom experience under licensed supervision. This usually occurs in the senior year and is necessary for state licensure eligibility.
• State Certification Exams and Licensure Application: After completing academic and field requirements, candidates take the Praxis II Physical Education exam and submit licensure applications, including background checks. This process can add several weeks to months before initial certification is granted.
• Employment and Continuing Education: Securing a teaching position may extend the timeline depending on hiring cycles. After roughly 18 months of teaching, educators can apply for a renewable five-year license, which requires ongoing professional development to maintain.

While the entire physical education teacher education timeline North Dakota typically ranges from four to five years, variations do occur. Prospective teachers might explore options like endorsements or double majors, or different institution pathways to optimize their preparation.

For those interested in flexible learning routes, exploring best online teaching degrees programs can also be valuable.

Are There Ongoing Professional Development Opportunities for PE Teachers in North Dakota?

Ongoing professional development is essential for maintaining instructional quality and adapting to evolving fitness and pedagogical practices. In North Dakota, physical education teachers can access state-sponsored workshops, in-service trainings, and specialized seminars that focus on innovative curriculum strategies and emerging trends in physical fitness education. Such opportunities not only support the continuous enhancement of teaching skills but also facilitate the attainment of additional endorsements aimed at career advancement. For further details on preparatory timelines, consider reviewing how long does it take to become a teacher in North Dakota.

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

Becoming a physical education teacher in North Dakota involves several financial considerations, including tuition, teacher preparation expenses, and certification costs. These factors together form the foundation of the cost to get PE teacher certification in North Dakota, though individual circumstances and choices may influence the total.

Below are the main cost components to understand before pursuing this path.

• Bachelor’s Degree Tuition: Completing a degree in physical education or a related field is the largest expense. In-state tuition for North Dakota public universities generally ranges from $9,000 to $10,000 per year, with total costs over four years estimated between $36,000 and $40,000, excluding fees, housing, and other living expenses.
• PE Teacher Preparation Program Expenses: Enrollment in a teacher preparation program incurs additional fees, such as student teaching costs. For example, some programs may charge about $70 per credit during the student teaching semester, leading to several hundred dollars in extra expenses.
• Licensing and Exam Fees: Prospective teachers must pass required Praxis exams, which cost between $90 and $150 each, typically taking at least two exams. The initial license application fee is $85, with fingerprinting/background checks adding about $44.50. CPR and First Aid certification, also mandatory, can cost from $50 to $110.
• Additional Costs: Students should budget for textbooks and course materials, estimated at $500 to $1,000 annually. Other potential costs include transportation for student teaching, professional clothing, and optional endorsements, each costing around $80. Considering these elements helps gauge the total financial investment.

Choosing specific universities or programs can impact these expenses significantly. For those exploring further educational opportunities, it’s useful to know are online masters degrees in educational leadership affordable, which may influence long-term career costs and advancement options.

Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in North Dakota?

Financial aid and scholarships play a crucial role in helping physical education teaching students in North Dakota manage the costs of their education and training, especially amid modest starting salaries and ongoing teacher shortages. Multiple funding sources exist, but each comes with specific eligibility criteria and conditions requiring careful consideration.

• Federal and State Financial Aid: FAFSA is the key gateway for Pell Grants, work-study, and federal loans. State grants like the North Dakota State Grant Program also support eligible residents attending approved institutions.
• Institutional Scholarships: Universities such as the University of Jamestown and Valley City State University offer scholarships targeted to education majors, sometimes covering significant portions of tuition for qualifying applicants.
• Teaching Grants and Loan Forgiveness: Programs like the TEACH Grant provide funding for students who commit to teaching in high-need schools, with loan forgiveness options available after years of public service.
• Para-to-Teacher Scholarships: These are designed for paraprofessionals aiming to earn teaching credentials, offering substantial tuition aid and reimbursement incentives within North Dakota’s approved educator programs.

When I asked a physical education teacher from North Dakota about scholarships, she reflected on her personal experience balancing financial challenges. Having graduated locally, she described the relief she felt after receiving a Para-to-Teacher scholarship, which bridged a critical gap in funding.

“Without that support, pursuing my degree would have been much harder,” she shared. She emphasized how navigating scholarships required persistence and connecting with advisors, but ultimately the financial aid provided not just monetary help but motivation to stay committed through the tougher moments of her education journey.

Is there demand for physical education teachers in North Dakota?

The demand for physical education teachers in North Dakota is influenced by multiple factors, including fluctuations in school enrollment, state health initiatives, and retirement trends among educators.

These elements collectively shape how many physical education teachers are needed at any given time, balancing the supply of qualified professionals with evolving public health priorities and demographic changes. 

Demand is particularly strong in public schools located in larger urban districts such as Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks, where student populations tend to be higher. Private schools and specialized education centers also contribute to the need for qualified physical education teachers, though often to a lesser extent.

While North Dakota has a relatively low number of physical education teachers overall, projected national job growth for the profession suggests slow but positive expansion, with specific demand continuing in underserved rural areas where recruitment challenges remain significant.

For those exploring physical education teacher job openings in North Dakota, the landscape reflects a steady if modest need influenced by these geographic and institutional factors.

These trends create job opportunities that are steady but often competitive, especially within larger districts or for candidates with versatile skills who can take on multiple roles, such as coaching sports. Prospective educators would benefit from combining formal training with practical experience and cultural awareness to stand out.

Some may also consider advancing their qualifications—for example, through an online phd in education—to enhance their employability and adapt to changing educational demands across North Dakota.

What is the average salary of a PE teacher in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, PE teachers earn around $63,900 annually, reflecting a modest but meaningful premium that aligns with regional educational investment priorities. For those considering a career in physical education, understanding salary expectations is important as compensation influences career sustainability, professional growth opportunities, and financial security.

The following factors significantly impact PE teacher salaries in North Dakota:

• Years of Experience: Salary increases with tenure, where entry-level teachers might start near $49,990, while seasoned educators can earn upwards of $97,450 annually.
• Education Level: Advanced degrees such as master’s or specialist certifications often lead to higher pay, as school districts reward additional qualifications and professional development.
• School Type (Public vs. Private): Public school teachers generally receive higher salaries due to standardized pay scales and greater funding compared to private schools.
• Geographic Location: Urban areas like Bismarck offer higher average salaries around $63,041, whereas rural districts tend to pay less, reflecting local budgetary constraints and cost of living differences.

These variables demonstrate the complex nature of earning potential for PE teachers in North Dakota, balancing institutional funding, regional factors, and individual credentials. While challenges exist, educators dedicated to their field can achieve competitive compensation that values their role in promoting student health and wellness.

What Do Physical Education Teachers in North Dakota Say About Their Career?

• Graduating from Dakota Prairie High School’s physical education program was a pivotal step for me. Beginning my career at a local school in North Dakota allowed me to apply practical skills and foster strong relationships with students eager to embrace a healthy lifestyle. The unique winter sports culture here challenges me to be creative in engaging students year-round, and the community’s support makes it all deeply rewarding. I have grown both personally and professionally, witnessing firsthand the positive impact of encouraging youth physical activity and wellness in a rural setting. Joaquin
• Completing my PE education at Red River Academy gave me a solid foundation that prepared me well for a career dedicated to student health and fitness. Starting work in a North Dakota school means stability and consistent opportunities for growth, which I truly appreciate. I find it fulfilling to help students overcome the challenges posed by our long winters and seasonal changes through adaptive physical education programs. Watching students flourish in their confidence and wellbeing over the years has profoundly shaped my professional journey. Greta
• My experience at the Northern Lights Institute was transformative, providing me with both academic and practical exposure to physical education. Working as a PE teacher in North Dakota’s tight-knit communities is uniquely rewarding, as I get to integrate outdoor activities tied to our local environment, like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, into the curriculum. These opportunities allow me to contribute positively to students’ physical health and foster a deep appreciation for our state’s natural resources. The continual professional development available here keeps me inspired and advancing in my career. Ezra

References:

• Types of Licenses | North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board https://www.nd.gov/espb/licensure/license-information/types-licenses
• How to Become a PE Teacher in North Dakota | Requirements for PE Teacher Jobs in ND https://www.peteacheredu.org/north-dakota/
• North Dakota Teacher Certification Guide | All Education Schools https://www.alleducationschools.com/teacher-certification/north-dakota/
• Physical Education https://www.ndsu.edu/education/academic_units/k_12_teacher_preparation/physical_education
• Physical Education Degrees :: Mayville State University :: Mayville, ND https://mayvillestate.edu/academics/majors-and-minors/physical-education-and-recreation/
• Teacher License Reciprocity: State Profiles - Education Commission of the States https://www.ecs.org/teacher-license-reciprocity-state-profiles/
• Physical education teacher salary in North Dakota ‐ CareerExplorer https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/physical-education-teacher/salary/north-dakota/
• Professional Teaching Staff Salary & Benefit Information - West Fargo 6 School District https://www.west-fargo.k12.nd.us/departments/human-resources/benefits/professional-teaching-staff-salary-benefit-information
• EdJobsND https://www.edjobsnd.com/
• NORTH DAKOTA EDUCATIONAL EMPLOYMENT SYSTEM https://www.schooljobsnd.com/list

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