2026 How to Become a Physical Education Teacher in Oregon

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Oregon has seen a steady demand for qualified physical education teachers, with employment in this field projected to grow by 7% over the next decade, outperforming the national average. The average salary for physical education teachers in Oregon is approximately $60,000, reflecting competitive compensation aligned with cost of living.

This growth is driven by increased emphasis on student wellness and active lifestyles in Oregon’s education system. Pursuing a career as a physical education teacher in Oregon offers both job stability and meaningful engagement with youth development.

This article, prepared by experts in career planning, provides a detailed guide on how to become a physical education teacher in Oregon. It delivers essential information on certification requirements, educational pathways, and state-specific procedures to assist prospective educators in navigating their career steps efficiently.

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

Earn a bachelor’s degree with a physical education endorsement; Oregon requires completion of an approved teacher preparation program.
Pass the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) licensure exams, including content-specific assessments for physical education.
Complete a supervised student teaching internship; Oregon reports about 18% growth in PE teaching roles over the last decade, reflecting increasing demand.

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

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

Formal education is fundamental for preparing physical education teachers to develop effective, evidence-based PE programs that enhance students' physical, social, and emotional well-being in Oregon. It aligns instruction with state standards and equips educators with the skills to foster lifelong wellness.

The following outlines the typical minimum education requirements to enter the field in Oregon:

Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education or Related Field: Candidates must obtain a bachelor’s degree generally in physical education, kinesiology, exercise science, or a closely related discipline. These programs impart essential knowledge in human movement, exercise science, and teaching strategies specific to physical activity and health.
Completion of a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Prospective Oregon PE teachers must complete a preparation program accredited by the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission. These programs cover modern pedagogy, curriculum planning, classroom management, and provide practical experience through fieldwork and student teaching.
Specialized Coursework in Physical Education Methods: Education plans demand coursework in areas such as movement education, dance, fitness training, outdoor education, and instructional models. This training ensures educators can meet Oregon’s comprehensive physical education content standards and adapt to diverse activity requirements.
Grade-Level Specialization: Many preparation pathways encourage or require specialization in teaching specific grade ranges—elementary (K-5), middle (6-8), or high school (9-12). This focus supports developmentally appropriate instruction aligned with the curricular needs of each student group.

For those exploring advanced degrees to complement their qualifications, reviewing the best masters for teachers can help identify valuable opportunities.

What skills are essential for physical education teachers in Oregon?

Success as a physical education teacher in Oregon depends largely on a specific set of skills that enable educators to engage students effectively, encourage lifelong wellness habits, and manage classrooms with diverse student needs.

These essential skills for PE teachers in Oregon support the implementation of comprehensive state standards, ensuring that instruction is both inclusive and impactful.

Below are the key competencies valued in Oregon’s physical education teaching environment.

Communication and Instructional Clarity: Clear communication skills for physical education teachers in Oregon are vital to translate complex movement concepts and fitness principles into understandable lessons for students of varying ages.
Leadership and Classroom Management: Effective PE teachers must demonstrate strong leadership to within the active, high-energy setting. Oregon’s standards emphasize the need for teachers to create positive learning climates, quickly organize groups, and seamlessly transition between activities to meet instructional time goals.
Adaptability and Differentiated Instruction: Meeting the diverse abilities and backgrounds of Oregon’s students requires flexibility in teaching methods and assessments. PE teachers must modify activities and use inclusive strategies to help all students achieve physical literacy outcomes, adapting instruction based on available resources and integrating technology when appropriate.
Comprehensive Fitness and Health Knowledge: Deep expertise in exercise physiology, motor development, and health-related fitness is necessary for teachers to deliver informed instruction aligned with Oregon’s rigorous standards. Preparation for the ORELA PE endorsement exam reflects this knowledge base, which encompasses fitness trends, injury prevention, and evidence-based practices.

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Do PE teachers in Oregon need a teaching license?

Licensing requirements play a crucial role in maintaining consistent teaching standards and ensuring positive student outcomes in Oregon’s education system. By standardizing qualifications, the state ensures that physical education teachers possess the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver effective instruction across all grade levels.

In Oregon, public school physical education teachers must hold a valid teaching license with a physical education endorsement issued by the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC).

This involves earning a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, completing a TSPC-approved teacher preparation program, and passing several exams such as the ORELA Civil Rights Exam and the ORELA Physical Education endorsement exam.

As of 2023, approximately 1,200 licensed PE teachers work in Oregon public schools, reflecting the state's commitment to qualified educators in these roles. Licensure ensures teachers are proficient in growth and motor development, physical fitness, and program implementation, aligning with statewide education goals.

Conversely, private and charter schools in Oregon have more flexibility regarding hiring physical education teachers. While many prefer candidates with state licenses, they are not always legally required to do so. Charter schools may establish alternative qualification criteria, sometimes aligning with state standards but often retaining autonomy.

These distinctions provide varying career pathways: public school positions typically offer greater job security and advancement for licensed teachers, whereas private and charter schools may allow professionals without traditional certification to enter the field, albeit often with less stability or benefits.

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

Certification is essential to ensure physical education (PE) teachers in Oregon are well-equipped to promote student fitness, wellness, and lifelong healthy habits. It confirms that educators not only have the necessary subject expertise but also the pedagogical skills to deliver effective, standards-based PE instruction.

The certification process involves several systematic steps that candidates must complete to qualify for teaching in Oregon schools.

Here are the key steps to become a certified PE teacher in Oregon:

Complete a Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must earn at least a bachelor’s degree, typically in physical education, exercise science, or a related field aligned with Oregon’s state PE standards. This degree often includes coursework focused on movement education, sport pedagogy, fitness, and adapted physical education.
Finish a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Prospective teachers must complete a program approved by the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC), combining educational theory, subject-specific methods, and student teaching experiences in K–12 settings under supervision.
Pass Required State Exams: Applicants need to pass the Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments, including a civil rights exam and basic skills test, as well as the ORELA Physical Education exam that covers topics such as growth development, lifelong fitness, and PE programming.
Apply for Certification: Once educational and testing criteria are met, candidates apply to the TSPC for licensure with a PE endorsement. The process requires a background check, fees, and submission of transcripts and test scores.
Maintain and Renew License: Ongoing professional development and periodic renewal ensure teachers remain current and authorized to teach PE in Oregon’s public schools.

A PE teacher from Oregon, who graduated from a local university, shared insights on this journey: “Navigating the certification was definitely challenging but rewarding. The student teaching year, especially, was an intense period where I applied everything learned in my coursework directly in schools. Passing the ORELA exams required focused study, particularly because the questions covered such a broad range of topics.”

He reflected on the importance of support from mentors during the preparation program and noted that while the background check and paperwork felt daunting, the process gave him confidence in his ability to teach effectively. “It wasn’t just about checking boxes,” he said, “it genuinely prepared me to contribute positively to student health and wellness in my community.”

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

Oregon does not offer full license reciprocity for out-of-state teachers, including those seeking to teach physical education. Instead, the state issues a Reciprocal Teaching License as a temporary credential, allowing qualified educators from other states to teach while completing Oregon-specific requirements.

To be eligible, teachers must hold a valid, non-provisional teaching license from another recognized jurisdiction and have completed an educator preparation program. This provisional license is valid for one year and cannot be renewed.

During this time, teachers must meet Oregon’s standards by submitting additional documentation, such as transcripts and verification of prior licensure, and may be required to pass state assessments or complete coursework designed to confirm content knowledge and pedagogical skills. After the provisional year, PE teachers must qualify for one of Oregon’s standard licenses to continue teaching.

For physical education teachers relocating to Oregon, these regulations create both opportunities and challenges. The Reciprocal Teaching License offers immediate entry into the workforce, useful amid ongoing shortages, especially in rural areas where approximately 3% of teaching positions are unfilled or staffed by underqualified personnel.

However, PE teachers must act quickly to satisfy Oregon’s criteria within the one-year window to avoid disruptions to their careers. The necessary verification of endorsements and potential state-specific testing can prolong the transition and requires careful preparation.

This system balances maintaining Oregon’s teaching standards with addressing critical workforce needs, but the extra steps may delay seamless license transfer and require commitment to additional professional development that out-of-state educators might not have previously encountered.

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

The time required to become a physical education teacher in Oregon varies depending on the degree pathway, certification requirements, and necessary teaching experience. Candidates may complete traditional four-year programs or choose alternative routes, impacting how many years to become a PE teacher in Oregon.

These factors collectively influence the overall duration to meet the PE teacher education requirements Oregon mandates:

Bachelor’s Degree Completion: Typically, candidates spend four years earning a bachelor’s degree, often majoring in physical education or a related field. Some programs include integrated teacher preparation courses, which can streamline the path to licensure.
Teacher Preparation Program: Candidates must complete a teacher preparation program approved by the state’s Teacher Standards and Practices Commission. For non-education majors, this often involves enrolling in a graduate-level Master of Arts in Teaching, which can take between one to two years based on program intensity.
Student Teaching Experience: Practical experience occurs during the final stages of education or preparation programs, involving several months of supervised teaching in K–12 Oregon schools. This experience is critical for developing effective instructional skills in physical education.
State Certification Exams: Applicants must pass multiple exams including basic skills, civil rights, and the Physical Education endorsement. Preparing for and scheduling these tests may add several months to the process, though some may be exempt from certain tests depending on their academic background.
License Application and Background Check: After meeting educational and examination requirements, candidates submit their license application and undergo a fingerprint-based background check. Processing times vary but usually take a few weeks up to two months.

Candidates interested in how long it takes to become a PE teacher in Oregon should expect a total timeline of around four to six years for most pathways, accounting for all academic and certification components.

Graduate-level programs following a bachelor’s degree in another field may extend this timeframe. For those comparing education options, reviewing the ranking of most affordable online edd programs may help identify cost-effective routes.

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

The cost of becoming a physical education teacher in Oregon involves several financial components, including tuition, certification, and exam fees. These expenses vary but collectively represent a significant investment toward fulfilling state requirements.

Below is a breakdown of the primary factors influencing the cost of PE teacher education in Oregon:

Tuition for a Bachelor’s Degree: Earning a bachelor’s degree is essential, with in-state tuition at public universities like Eastern Oregon University estimated around $7,515 annually. Private institutions may charge upwards of $10,000 per year, resulting in total costs between $30,000 and $45,000 over four years, excluding living expenses.
PE Teacher Preparation Program Costs: Completing an approved teacher preparation program, such as the Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program, often incurs extra fees. These programs include coursework and practical teaching experience and may be bundled into tuition or billed separately, especially at graduate levels.
Licensing and Exam Fees: Candidates must clear several exams, including the ORELA Civil Rights, basic skills, and PE endorsement tests, with fees ranging from $95 to $150 each. Total testing and certification fees typically fall between $200 and $400, in addition to a $182 application fee for a five-year Oregon teaching license.
Books, Supplies, and Additional Expenses: Annual costs for textbooks and supplies can amount to several hundred dollars, with some institutions estimating $55 per credit hour. Additional charges include criminal background checks, fingerprinting fees around $50–$75, and potential transportation or technology fees.

For those exploring advanced education options, programs like a masters in library science may offer insights or alternative pathways related to educator training costs. Keeping these expenses in mind is vital for understanding the full scope of PE teacher training costs in Oregon.

Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in Oregon?

Scholarships and financial aid significantly ease the financial burden for physical education teaching students in Oregon by covering tuition, certification, and training costs. Access to these funds is crucial for broadening participation and supporting teacher workforce diversity in the state.

Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA): Completing FAFSA unlocks access to need-based grants, work-study programs, and low-interest loans, forming the primary financial foundation for education students nationwide.
Oregon Teacher Scholars Program Grant (OTSP): Offers up to $12,000 for eligible full-time candidates pursuing teaching licensure with an emphasis on diverse population experience, requiring both OTSP and FAFSA or ORSAA applications.
Federal TEACH Grant: Provides up to $4,000 annually for students committing to teach in high-need fields at low-income schools, with service obligations converting unmet grants into loans.
Loan Forgiveness Programs: Programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness may erase remaining federal loans after 10 years of qualifying teaching service in public schools.
Institutional Scholarships: Merit- and need-based awards are available directly from Oregon colleges, often tailored to education majors including physical education.

When I asked a PE teacher from Oregon about scholarships for physical education students, she reflected on her experience at a local university. She recalled the relief she felt receiving an award that combined state grant funds and an institutional scholarship, which substantially lowered her out-of-pocket expenses.

“Navigating the application process felt overwhelming at times, especially balancing course loads and paperwork,” she shared. Yet, the financial support allowed her to focus more on her studies and fieldwork.

She emphasized how critical this aid was to her completing the program without excessive debt, highlighting the importance of exploring multiple funding sources early in the educational journey.

Is there demand for physical education teachers in Oregon?

Several key factors influence the demand for physical education teachers in Oregon, including school enrollment trends, state-mandated health and PE initiatives, and retirement rates among current educators. Legislative requirements compel schools to provide a minimum amount of physical education weekly, pushing districts to hire qualified PE instructors.

Additionally, as many experienced teachers retire, the need to replace them further intensifies recruitment efforts. These elements together shape the Oregon physical education teacher job market, creating sustained demand statewide.

The strongest demand is concentrated in public schools, notably in K-8 settings and underserved or Title 1 schools. The state supports this through the Physical Education Expansion K-8 (PEEK-8) Grant, which offers up to $70,000 annually per full-time equivalent PE teacher to eligible schools.

Priority is given to economically disadvantaged and rural districts lacking licensed PE teachers, addressing equity and compliance simultaneously. Job listings show over 100 openings as of late 2025, covering elementary through high schools and including some positions in community colleges and private schools.

Although specific statewide growth projections are unavailable, ongoing legislative funding and expected retirements suggest a steady increase in employment opportunities for educators in this field, especially given Oregon’s continued emphasis on student health and wellness.

As a result, aspiring PE teachers in Oregon can anticipate robust job prospects, particularly in public and underserved areas where state policy and grant funding intersect. Those looking to enter the profession will find consistent hiring needs and a competitive market, especially if willing to work in rural or high-need locations.

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

The national average salary for physical education (PE) teachers is approximately $69,000. In contrast, Oregon offers a significantly higher average salary of about $98,080 per year for PE teachers, reflecting the state’s investment in health and wellness education.

Salary is a crucial factor for those pursuing a career in physical education in Oregon, as it influences both long-term financial stability and job satisfaction.

The following factors primarily determine variations in PE teacher salaries within Oregon:

Years of Experience: Starting salaries for new PE teachers in Oregon begin near $37,320, with veterans earning up to $161,140 annually. Incremental raises are common, rewarding continued service and expertise.
Education Level: Teachers holding advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate, usually receive higher salaries, with pay increases reflecting additional qualifications and graduate coursework.
School Type (Public vs. Private): Public school PE teachers generally earn more than those in private schools, partly due to unionized salary schedules and collective bargaining agreements.
Geographic Location within Oregon: Urban areas like Portland, Eugene, and Salem offer higher salaries because of the cost of living and demand, while rural districts may offer lower pay but sometimes provide other incentives.

The earning potential for PE teachers in Oregon highlights both the challenges of the profession and the state’s strong commitment to supporting educators. This favorable compensation relative to other states makes Oregon an attractive choice for professionals seeking competitive salaries and career growth in physical education.

What Continuing Education and Professional Development Options Are Available for PE Teachers in Oregon?

PE teachers in Oregon are required to maintain and enhance their instructional skills through continuing education and professional development programs mandated by state guidelines. Educators typically pursue accredited workshops, seminars, and specialized training courses to renew their certification and gain additional endorsements. These initiatives are aimed at keeping teachers abreast of advances in physical fitness, safety protocols, and innovative instructional methodologies. Furthermore, recertification processes often involve earning continued professional development units, ensuring that instructors consistently meet updated industry standards while adapting to evolving educational needs. For insights into the broader timeframe and preparation efforts for transitioning into teaching roles within the state, review how long does it take to become a teacher in Oregon.

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

Completing my physical education program at Cascade Ridge Academy truly prepared me for the realities and rewards of teaching in Oregon. The curriculum was practical and the professors emphasized community involvement, which helped me connect with my students on a deeper level. Starting my career in a local school has been fulfilling, especially seeing how my efforts contribute to the well-being and physical health of young people. Oregon’s abundant natural resources provide incredible opportunities for outdoor activities and unique PE lessons that engage students beyond the gym. This profession has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally in ways I never expected. Kendall
Beginning my career as a physical education teacher in an Oregon local school was both challenging and rewarding. The diversity of students and the emphasis on holistic health promoted a dynamic teaching environment. Oregon’s culture of environmental awareness inspired me to incorporate outdoor fitness and nature exploration into my lessons. Professionally, I appreciate the state's commitment to continuous development through workshops and training programs. It’s incredibly motivating to know I can keep advancing my skills while making a positive impact on youth wellness. Jackie
Teaching physical education in Oregon has been a journey of profound personal growth and community connection. After graduating from the Willamette Valley Sports Academy, I felt equipped to face the unique challenges the state presents, such as adapting to varied climates and promoting fitness year-round. The support from my colleagues and administration for professional development has been exceptional, fostering leadership opportunities within my school. Most importantly, helping students discover confidence and resilience through sport has been deeply fulfilling. Oregon truly offers a career path where passion meets purpose. Elijah

References:

TSPC : Endorsements / Specializations : Licensing : State of Oregon https://www.oregon.gov/tspc/lic/pages/endorsements.aspx
OAR 584-220-0155 – Physical Education https://oregon.public.law/rules/oar_584-220-0155
Teaching License Endorsements | Add to your skillset with additional endorsements in Teaching https://www.eou.edu/teaching-license-endorsements/
Curriculum and Teacher Education Endorsement Programs | College of Education https://education.uoregon.edu/cted/endorsements
Oregon Secretary of State Administrative Rules https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/displayDivisionRules.action
Teacher Education Oregon Teaching Licensure - Bushnell University https://www.bushnell.edu/academics/schools/school-of-education/teacher-education-oregon-licensure/
Physical Education Teacher Education – Division of Health & Exercise Science https://wou.edu/hexs/programs-and-degrees/pete/
How to Become a Physical Education (PE) Teacher in Oregon https://www.oregonteachingdegree.com/physical-education.html
How to Become a Teacher in Oregon & Teacher Prep Programs https://www.georgefox.edu/education/become-a-teacher/index.html
Prospective Students | Master of Adapted Physical Education | College of Health | Oregon State University https://health.oregonstate.edu/mape/prospective

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

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

In Oregon, becoming a physical education (PE) teacher typically requires holding a valid teaching license, which in most cases mandates completing a teacher preparation program and earning a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field. However, there are alternative certification paths that allow individuals without a traditional teaching degree to enter the profession.

These alternatives often involve completing specific coursework and passing state exams while gaining on-the-job experience. Despite these options, having a teaching degree or formal preparation significantly improves the chances of obtaining licensure and employment as a PE teacher in Oregon.

Does Oregon offer alternative certification for PE teachers?

Oregon does offer alternative certification pathways for aspiring Physical Education (PE) teachers, allowing individuals with relevant experience or degrees in other fields to enter the teaching profession without following the traditional route.

These alternative routes often involve enrolling in approved teacher preparation programs while working under conditional certification, enabling candidates to gain practical classroom experience alongside their studies.

However, candidates must still meet state requirements such as passing the necessary licensure exams specific to PE and completing professional development. This approach provides flexibility for career changers and helps address teacher shortages, making it a viable option for those committed to teaching PE in Oregon.

What benefits do physical education teachers in Oregon receive?

Physical education teachers in Oregon enjoy a range of benefits that support both their professional and personal well-being. These include competitive salaries complemented by comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans through the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), and paid leave options such as sick, personal, and vacation days.

Additionally, many school districts offer professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement to encourage ongoing career growth. These benefits create a supportive work environment, making Oregon an attractive state for those pursuing a career in physical education teaching.

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

In Oregon, physical education (PE) teachers typically need specific endorsements to teach subjects beyond PE. Without additional endorsements, they are generally restricted to instructing within their certified area of physical education. To teach other subjects, such as health or coaching, educators must obtain separate endorsements through approved programs or exams. This ensures they possess the required knowledge and credentials to deliver quality instruction across different disciplines in Oregon’s public schools.